Letter to Universities | Save Lalibela

Urgent Appeal to Canadian and American Universities: "Support Save Lalibela Today Mission"

Dear leadership of the architecture universities listed below:

University of Toronto - John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture,

University of British Columbia (UBC) - School of Architecture

Ryerson University - Department of Architectural Science

McGill University - School of Architecture

Université Laval - School of Architecture

MIT School of Architecture and Planning

My name is Yehenew Ayalew, and I am the founder of Save Lalibela Today, a mission dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage embodied in the rock-hewn churches of Lalibela. These architectural marvels, dating back to the 13th century, are at risk, and it is our collective responsibility to ensure their safeguarding. I reach out to the esteemed architecture universities in Canada and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, institutions known for nurturing innovative minds, to support our cause.

Architecture students hold the power to influence positive changes, and I ask urgently to join the Save Lalibela Today movement. Together, we can elevate Lalibela to the status it deserves, comparable to esteemed sites like the Vatican. By uniting, we can work towards freeing Lalibela from the shadows of warzones and eliminating political interferences that threaten its sanctity.

I encourage university students to draft a petition urging UNESCO to recognize Lalibela's rock-hewn churches as endangered. This acknowledgment is crucial in mobilizing global support for their preservation. Visit the Save Lalibela Today website (link below) to understand the depth of our mission and show your solidarity by joining our movement.

The significance of Lalibela goes beyond architectural brilliance; it is a spiritual haven that deserves universal protection. By supporting Save Lalibela Today, architecture students and professors can contribute to a legacy that transcends borders. Contact us through the website's dedicated contact page to amplify your involvement and strengthen the collective voice advocating for Lalibela's conservation.

Let us bridge the gap between academia and activism, ensuring that Lalibela's legacy endures for generations to come. Together, we can be the guardians of this sacred site, fostering a global movement that transcends disciplines and borders. Join us in shaping a future where Lalibela stands as a testament to the power of united preservation efforts.

Visit our website: Save Lalibela Today