TODAY, for many Rwandans the world over, all roads lead to Atlanta, Georgia, for the sixth edition of the now famous Rwanda Day. As usual, it will be a time to interact, discuss national policies and chart the way forward. It will also be an occasion for the President to meet with the Diaspora. He will face a barrage of questions, suggestions and even petitions, but most importantly, Rwanda Day showcases the country to the host city, an unprecedented marketing concept. The timing of this edition of Rwanda Day could not have been better, nor the choice of the venue. Not only does it coincide with the 20th anniversary of the liberation, it also takes place 50 years since the signing of the Civil Rights Act in the US that ended racial segregation. One of the distinguished guests will be Andrew Young, the former mayor of Atlanta and one of the prominent civil rights activists whose actions helped push through the legislation. Like the African American community that never gave up in the fight for their rights, Rwandans share the same spirit of never giving up in the face of adversity and preserving their dignity (Agaciro). They chose that path. This year’s theme captures that philosophy; “Agaciro, Our Choice”. We are all defined by our choices, but whatever they may be, they should always have an element of dignity and be purpose- driven.
