By: Pam Jones/
Ermira Babamusta received the 2013 Distinguished Humanitarian Award from United States Congress on Thursday, August 1, 2013 in Washington DC at the Capitol Hill. Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid honored Ermira Babamusta for her international humanitarian efforts in Kosovo, diversity, justice, peace and democracy advocacy. To commemorate Ermira’s outstanding contributions to the international community, at the request of the honorable Senator Harry Reid, the American flag was flown over the United States Capitol building on Independence Day, July 4, 2013. A second flag was flown over the Capitol to honor Ermira’s father, professor Neki Babamusta in recognition of his international advocacy of democracy and strengthening the Albanian-American ties.
“I, along with my father receive this honor with deep gratitude. It is an honor that speaks to our highest aspirations – we believe that democracy, freedom and justice will triumph. We must continue to pursue peace through diplomacy. I hope to represent America, Albania and Kosova with dignity in my efforts of enhancing human rights, justice and women empowerment. I recognize the value of the tremendous American leadership how it changed the course of war toward peace in Kosova. The Albanians are forever grateful to the great American nation. I especially want to thank Senator Harry Reid for his tremendous leadership in United States Senate, especially for his efforts on immigration reform,” said Ermira Babamusta.
At the ceremony “Welcome to Washington” organized by Senator Harry Reid, Ermira Babamusta expressed her gratitude to the US Congress, Senator Reid and the American people and emphasized the importance of the great partnership between America-Albania-Kosovo. Following the ceremony Ermira received a tour of the US Congress.
“I truly value the great relationship between United States of America and Kosova. The two countries have frequently collaborated on issues of common interests such as trade, security, education and economic growth. Today’s success of Kosova has been a combination of genuine change on the part of Kosovar leadership in following a democratic platform and tremendous leadership on peace & democracy building from the U.S. I am particularly thankful for the leadership of Senator Tom Harkin and the state of Iowa for playing a key role in strengthening the Albanian-American diplomatic ties. As former staff of Senator Harkin and the Obama Administration I am inspired by the shared vision of building long trust, prosperity and democracy,” stated Ermira Babamusta.
In 2004 the United States Congress honored Ermira Babamusta for her excellent services in Congress while working for Congressman Mark Kennedy. Congressman Kennedy recognized Ermira’s vision to further America’s diplomacy. Her father Neki was also recognized by Congressman Kennedy for his democracy building efforts. Additionally, Ermira is the winner of the “International Woman of Courage Award”, awarded by Kessel Peace Institute. This award recognized her leadership, courage and willingness to sacrifice for others, especially in advocating women’s rights in US, Albania and around the world.
“The inspiring words of Noble Peace Prize winner, Mother Teresa come to mind –through understanding, peace and love we can make the world a better place. I believe each and one of us can find meaning in life and serve a higher purpose by giving back to the community, being compassionate to one-another and standing up for our freedoms. Everyone in the world deserves an equal opportunity to the God given rights – liberty, prosperity and justice,” said Ermira Babamusta.
Ermira Babamusta is currently involved in the President’s Volunteer Service program, established by the Office of the President in 2003. She hopes to inspire others by taking positive action to change the world. Ermira’s biggest inspirations are two powerful women, First Lady Michelle Obama and Senator Hillary Clinton. Her future aspirations are very much bound to working for the White House or serve as a diplomat to represent US foreign interest abroad.