Renton’s own EriAm Sisters received the key to the city Monday night, at an event that seemed more like a Hollywood gala than a City Council meeting.
The sisters, Lianda, Haben and Salina Abraham, are fresh off making the semi-finals of the NBC talent show, “America’s Got Talent.”
The sisters didn’t reach the finals, but they made a big impression on the national stage and brought attention to Renton.
“You really put Renton on the map. We are proud of your accomplishments,” said Mayor Denis Law in proclaiming Monday as EriAm Sisters Day in Renton.
He then posed for photos with the girls, to the flashing of numerous cameras.
The sisters were obviously moved by the community recognition.
Lianda, 15, said the recognition means “so much” to her and her sisters.
“I don’t think we could have done it without the Renton community,” she said.
What has captured Renton’s and now the nation’s attention is the musical talent the young teens display, set against an inspiring family history. Their parents, Tiblets and Mulugheta, watched from the large audience.
Mulu, their father, told the council and audience that on that very day, Sept. 21, in 1983, he left Africa to find a better future for his family. Much of that time has been spent in Renton.
The sisters then were honored at a reception.