Editor, RE: “Why we should cease posting graphic photos on social media” (The New Times, January 10). I will start my comment with this quote:“‘Genocide is not important in that part of the world [Africa]’. It is in those terms that Francois Mitterrand, French president at the time of the Tutsi Genocide in 1994 justified his uninterrupted support to the Genocide government.” I am American and I have never been to Africa. Since the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi, I have taken a particular, personal interest in Rwanda. I have watched movies about the Genocide and read several books about the country. I have attended several university panel discussions where cross sections of Rwandans have appeared. I read The New Times at least once a week but, in general, more often. Still, this is a small drop in the bucket of my knowledge about Rwanda. My impression of the evolution of the nation of Rwanda over the past two decades is impressive, favourable. Since I am a high school French teacher, my students learn about African francophone nations and I use Rwanda as an example of what happened during the colonial years, thereafter, and what Rwanda is today. There seem to be so many good things happening in the country, not to mention the most admirable national reconciliation programme. Having lived in a foreign country, having been targeted as “you Americans think you own the world”, I understand the frustration with Western politicians and other actors and their condescending remarks, policies and “superiority” towards the “underdogs” of other continents. I wish that would change. What a world it would be if we considered people of countries instead of politics of countries! The author of this article made so many good points. It is not much, but please note, that in one classroom in America, students will learn about your beautiful country and its resilient people, its culture and economy in a concise and dignified manner. Best of luck to all Rwandans and continue your good work. Continue to tell your own story and stand by it. Christine B.
