Hosting Kwibuka 32 was a profound honor, and the responsibility was immense.
Last weekend, we were honored with a very, very important mission of hosting Kwibuka 32, a commemoration of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, as a community our task was not easy, as it was the very first time a large crowd of Rwandans and friends of Rwanda was expected to gather in a single arena in the Grand Rapids area, with a high level of dignitaries and survivors in attendance. But we prepared everything with my team and, in collaboration with various institutions and organizations, hosted this event.
Thanks to
@IbukaUsa for their commitment to preserving history, protecting survivors, and advocating for survivors. Your expertise made everything feel easier and more confident about deciding what to do and when to do it. The US Rwandan community played a significant role in this meaningful event, benefiting not only Rwandans but also those who attended in person and online.
We are grateful for the presence of our ambassador, H.E.
@AmbMukantabana Madam Ambassador, your presence here honored our communities at large. You represented a nation that rose from ashes to become a global example of reconciliation, unity, and resilience. You represented survivors whose courage rebuilt a country.
We are deeply honored that Governor
@GovWhitmer issued a statewide proclamation recognizing Kwibuka 32 and affirming Michigan’s commitment to remembrance, education, and the fight against genocide denial. We are equally grateful to Mayor
@KepleyforMayor of Kentwood and Mayor
@DavidLagrand of Grand Rapids, who each issued proclamations honoring the victims and standing with our community. Their leadership sends a clear message: Michigan does not tolerate hatred. Michigan does not tolerate denial. Michigan stands for truth.
We are so grateful to
@kcconline for providing us with a place. What made this weekend truly meaningful was the heart, unity, and commitment everyone brought to remembrance, healing, and hope. Because of you, survivors felt supported, young people learned, and our community came together with dignity.
Thanks to our panelists,
@CoulibalyBojana @ChasteUwihoreye and many more, moderators, protocol, Media that covered our event and everyone who participated in organizing, inviting, and attending in any capacity, mostly Michiganders!
Murakoze cyane,
Watch the full commemoration here:
youtu.be/ISO48yQ8e7Y?si=55TQ…
Kwibuka 32 U.S. National Commemoration Recap;
kwibuka32.ibukausa.org/news/…
#Kwibuka32
@RwandaInUSA