Rwanda Memorial Unveiled at US University

Rwanda’s Ambassador to the United States, Mathilde Mukantabana, dedicated a new memorial at California State University, Sacramento on Saturday. The monument honors victims of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Mukantabana described the memorial as a lasting symbol for remembrance and a declaration against silence and denial.

University President Luke Wood stated the genocide claimed over one million lives in roughly 100 days. He said the memorial recognizes both those lost and the survivors who endured the tragedy. Survivor Phodidas Ndamyumugabe noted the monument represents a shared responsibility to protect human dignity.

The memorial intends to educate students and future generations about the dangers of hatred. Mukantabana expressed gratitude for the university’s commitment to fighting genocide and denial, but acknowledged the ongoing need to combat these issues. The work of understanding and preserving truth continues on the campus.