Around the world there are thousands of families that are persecuted and out-cast due to their ethnicity, political views and religious affiliations. Due to the hardships and struggles, many families seek refuge and come to the United States; the land of the free, the home of the brave. The Bussa family is no exception. For the pursuit of happiness, Negussie Fedessa Bussa left his country of Ethiopia and came to the United States seventeen years ago to obtain an education; subsequently his family, his wife and daughters, joined him. Having successfully completed his studies, he applied for political asylum due to the fear of persecution. In his well-documented political plea he cited membership to the Oromo ethnic group, family history, political views and past political persecutions that have been afflicted upon him and his family. Although their asylum application was denied, the mother and father have spent fifteen years appealing and fighting to stay in the United States for the welfare of their four daughters. During these times they have been living their lives as respectable, contributing members to the surrounding communities: volunteering their time, giving their attention and love, and willingly embracing and supporting those who are in need. As they have done in the past, the Bussa family previously applied for an asylum and was patiently waiting for the outcome. Unfortunately, on the morning of September 17, 2008, before the case was fully processed, ICE officials came into their home with guns and riffles and detained members of the Bussa family: Dr. Negussie, wife Leiouwerk Tsegaye and their eldest daughter, Hawi Bussa, were all handcuffed, shackled and taken away. The other three daughters, all of whom are under the age of 16, were terrorized by the experience and have been separated from their parents and eldest sister. We, the family and friends of the Bussa family, hereby ask all who believe that all men are created equal sign the petition; if you believe in the American Dream, please, sign the petition; if you believe in the pursuit of happiness, please sign the petition.

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