Long-distance running is not only Ethiopia’s national sport; it is a source of pride for Ethiopians all over the world. Worldfocus contributing blogger Tesfaye Negussie went to Ethiopia and interviewed Derartu Tulu, who won the New York City Marathon in 2009, about what it takes to be one of the best runners in the world.

“Remember, this is still Africa,” warned a friend of Tesfaye Negussie, an American journalist whose parents emigrated from Ethiopia. Last month, Tesfaye traveled to Ethiopia to visit family and friends and shares a story about the restrictions on press freedoms that excuse those in power and propel social injustices.