EDITORIAL: Diaspora has a key role in fighting Genocide denial

Rwandans in the Diaspora across the world have joined their compatriots back home in honouring the more than a million countrymen and women who were murdered in senseless killings that engulfed Rwanda twenty-one years ago. Events to commemorate the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi continue to be held in different cities the world over with mourners expressing disbelief at the misinformation that continues to be peddled by Genocide deniers in different forms, particularly in the West. Many have resolved to not sit idly by as their country’s history and, most importantly, that of the Genocide, continues to be distorted by elements bent on rewriting it with view to undermine the memory of the victims, inflict further misery on survivors, and deflect responsibility. Such disgraceful acts manifest in publications and other materials that are ironically often produced and promoted in countries that punish denial of other genocides, especially the Holocaust. It is encouraging that Rwandans anywhere in the world, including in peacekeeping missions, have increasingly organised commemoration events; this is the first step to preserve and honour the memory of the departed victims and standing shoulder to shoulder with the survivors. But that is not enough. Rwandans in the Diaspora need to actively challenge Genocide deniers and those who continue to propagate genocide ideology in their host countries by continually telling the truth through various forms; including delivering public lectures in schools, conferences and other social events, documenting their own personal stories, and advocating that host countries outlaw and punish denial of the Genocide against the Tutsi. It is incumbent upon every Rwandan to stand up for their country and loved ones who were brutally silenced simply because of who they were, in 1994, by speaking out whenever and wherever Genocide denial has reared its ugly head. With a concerted and sustained effort, truth will triumph over lies.

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EDITORIAL: Diaspora has a key role in fighting Genocide denial