International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

The International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda aims to commemorate one of the most barbaric acts of violence in recent history. This internationally acknowledged day allows a space for reflection, memory, and education, with an ever-important emphasis on ensuring such atrocities are never repeated. It is an occasion to honour the memory of victims and survivors and re-commit to preventing further acts of genocide.

The inexorable massacre that occurred in Rwanda in 1994 resulted in the death of nearly a million Tutsi over a period of 100 days by Hutu extremists. The event stands as a potent reminder regarding the effects of divisive propaganda and unchecked hatred. Although geographically detached, the event has deep significance for Australians too. It informs discourse on Australia's role in international peace keeping, global human rights, and raises awareness about the effects of racial and ethnic hatred. It represents a critical point of reflection on Australia's commitment to protect against such large-scale human rights abuses worldwide.

In Australia, the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda is observed with moments of silence, scholarly discussions, and public. The Australian government, in alignment with the United Nations, continues to support efforts to promote education and remembrance about the genocide, aiming to foster a global culture that rejects all forms of intolerance and discrimination. International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda is observed annually on April 7, reinforcing Australia's commitment to a peaceful, inclusive society free from racial hatred.

Facts about this day

• More than one million people were systematically killed in less than three months. The Tutsi people made up the majority of deaths, but the Hutu, the Twa, and others who opposed the genocide were also targeted.
• On this day, we honor those who were murdered, we reflect on the suffering and we recognize the resilience of those who have survived. As we join in solidarity with people of Rwanda, we must take a hard look at today's world and ensure that we heed the lessons of 27 years ago - United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres, 2021
• Australian peacekeepers were part of the UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda, which was deployed during the genocide. Some have shared their personal experiences, raising awareness of the horrors they witnessed.
• An Australian man named Frank Sturgess, a former major in the Australian Army, was the only Australian who served as a United Nations peacekeeper in Rwanda during the genocide in 1994. He later testified at the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda (ICTR), providing crucial evidence about the role of some individuals involved in the genocide.

In the News and Trending in Australia for International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda

Top things to do in Australia for this observance

• Watch UNESCO's panel discussion From Hate Speech to Genocide: lessons from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
• Explore several photo exhibits curated by survivors.
• Learn more by attending Lectures and workshops: Universities and research institutions such as the University of Melbourne sometimes organize lectures and workshops on the Rwandan genocide to raise awareness and educate the public.
• Read a book to learn more about 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda in Australia:
  We Wish to Inform You That Tomorrow We Will be Killed With Our Families - by Philip Gourevitch: This book provides an in-depth, detailed account of the events surrounding the Rwandan Genocide.
  Left to Tell: Discovering God Amidst the Rwandan Holocaust - by Immaculée Ilibagiza: This is a memoir of a woman who hid in a tiny bathroom with seven other women for 91 days to escape the genocide.