The sandals worn by Eritrean liberation soldiers during the war for independence became a symbol for resistance, collectivity, and freedom ::

_________________________________________

‘Shidas’ in Arabic, ‘congos’ in Tigrinya, ‘sandals’ in English.

The shida is far more than a cheap, plastic sandal in the Eritrean psyche. It is the footwear that freedom fighters wore in their 30 years struggle to liberate their country. They were inexpensive, easy to repair by melting the material together, and allowed air to circulate around the feet.

On the 10th anniversary of independence, Eritrea erected a monument in Asmara honoring the individuals who gave their life for a free Eritrea.

The sculpture was the idea of Eritros Abraham, an electrical engineer by training who returned to Eritrea in 1991. ''You usually think of statues, not shoes, when you think of a memorial,'' Abraham said. ''This is certainly unusual, but to us it makes sense.''

Once part of the EPLF uniform, now a symbol of Eritrean independence, the sandals are a staple footwear in every Eritrean household, both in Eritrea and in the Diaspora.

_________________________________________

Available in 1 size 8.5”x11”

High gloss print

::

Available in print, this unique artwork will make an impression in any room, is made to order for you, and shipped securely.