Tutsi Genocide Memorial Day in Rwanda

Date:

• April 7th annually

History:

• Marks the beginning of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda that started on April 7, 1994.
• Over a span of approximately 100 days, an estimated 800,000 to 1 million Tutsi and moderate Hutu were systematically murdered.
• The genocide was orchestrated by the Hutu extremist-led government at the time.

Traditions and Commemorations:

• National Mourning: The day marks the start of a national mourning period, which lasts for 100 days, coinciding with the length of the genocide.

• Memorial Services: People gather for memorial services across the country to honor those who lost their lives. These services often include survivor testimonies, speeches by dignitaries, and moments of silence.

• Visit to Memorials: Many Rwandans visit genocide memorials where mass graves hold the remains of victims. The Kigali Genocide Memorial is a primary site where such remembrance activities take place.

• Lighting of Flames: A flame of remembrance known as "Urumuri Rutazima" (which translates to "The Flame that Cannot Be Extinguished") is lit at memorial sites. It burns for 100 days.

• Educational Programs: Schools and communities engage in educational programs focused on genocide history and prevention of future atrocities.

What People Do on This Day: 1. Participate in community gatherings and events centered around remembrance and reconciliation. 2. Observe moments of silence at specific times throughout the day to reflect on the lives lost. 3. Lay wreaths and flowers at memorials as tributes to those who were killed during the genocide. 4. Listen to and share stories about survival, resilience, and recovery as part of healing and education efforts.

The day is one for reflection and remembrance in Rwanda as well as among Rwandan communities globally, emphasizing unity, peace-building, and renewed commitment to never allow such an event to occur again.