The event was organized by IBUKA-USA, the American branch of the Association for the Interests of Genocide Survivors, in collaboration with the Rwandan community in Maine.
Discussions focused on various initiatives for rebuilding Rwanda and fostering global cooperation. The devastating impact of the Genocide was highlighted, alongside measures to prevent such atrocities from recurring.
It was stressed that combating and confronting genocide denial and minimization is not solely a Rwandan responsibility but a global imperative. Such harmful ideologies must be eradicated to safeguard humanity.
Nishimwe Consolée, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide, emphasized the importance of hope and resilience despite challenges.
She said, “No matter the hardships you face in life, never lose hope, because losing hope is the beginning of defeat.”
South Portland Mayor Misha C. Pride expressed solidarity with Rwandans, stating, “We stand with Rwandans, honoring the victims and survivors of the Genocide against the Tutsi, and we pledge to remain vigilant against discrimination and dehumanizing rhetoric that could lead to such a tragedy again.”
Governor Janet Trafton Mills of Maine criticized the international community for inaction during the 100 days of the Genocide, describing it as a deeply saddening and inexplicable situation.
She said, “Trying to understand how this happened, how a Genocide could unfold over 100 days while the world watched, is a profoundly distressing reality that we still grapple with.”
She stressed that this should serve as a lesson for people to fully understand the significance of the phrase ’Never Again.’
Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, praised the RPA forces led by President Paul Kagame for halting the Genocide.
Ambassador Mukantabana highlighted Rwanda’s self-reliance, with Rwandans uniting, which has been the foundation of the country’s development over the past 30 years.
She said, “The phrase ‘Never Again’ will only be fully realized when people unite and strive to make it a reality.”
Yehoyada Mbangukira, leader of the Rwandan community in America and a senior official at Sonoma University, urged educational institutions to preserve Genocide-related stories, stating, “Remembering and preserving history is honoring those who perished and the survivors of the Genocide.”
The commemoration event also addressed the lasting effects of the Genocide against the Tutsi, including trauma and mental health issues among survivors and their children, and explored ways to continue addressing these issues.
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