Rwandan communities and friends of Rwanda residing in various US states came together over the weekend and on Monday to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. The events held in California, Washington, Oregon, Utah, Colorado, and Michigan showcased a united commitment to fighting genocide ideology.
In California, the atmosphere was one of reflection and solidarity as California State University hosted the 30th commemoration of the genocide. The event, jointly organized by the university, the Rwandan community, and Friends of Rwanda Association, emphasized the importance of education and remembrance in preventing future atrocities.
Ambassador Mathilde Mukantabana highlighted the crucial role of educational initiatives like those at California State University in educating about history and preventing genocide. The university is set to host a conference on genocide in November, furthering its commitment to genocide prevention.
In the Pacific Northwest, Rwandan communities in Washington and Oregon gathered to honor the memory of genocide victims. Participants reaffirmed their dedication to combating genocide ideology and denial, with a focus on standing up against hatred and prejudice.
In Utah, the commemoration emphasized empowering youth to confront genocide denial. Participants were urged to combat denial to prevent such atrocities from happening again. The events in Colorado and Michigan also stressed unity, peace, and the importance of preserving the memory of the genocide.
Overall, the commemorations in the US served as a solemn reminder to reflect on the past, honor the resilience of survivors, and work towards a better future free from genocide. The message of unity and peace resonated throughout, with a strong call to prevent genocide denial and ensure that the stories of the victims are never forgotten.