Rwandans in the City of Kentwood, IBUKA USA, and Survivors Across the United States Welcome the City of Kentwood Proclamation on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.
The American-Rwandan community in the City of Kentwood, together with IBUKA USA and survivors of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi living across the United States, warmly welcomes and deeply appreciates the official proclamation issued by the City of Kentwood, Michigan, recognizing April 7, 2026, as the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda.
This proclamation represents a meaningful acknowledgment of history and a powerful act of solidarity with survivors and families of victims. It honors the memory of more than one million Tutsi men, women, and children who were brutally murdered in 1994, while also recognizing the presence and contributions of survivors who have rebuilt their lives in the United States.
Commenting on the proclamation, Marcel Shyaka, the President of IBUKA USA, emphasized the importance of official recognition in preserving memory and advancing genocide prevention efforts.
“For survivors and for IBUKA USA, this proclamation is deeply significant,” Marcel said. “It affirms the truth of our history and honors the dignity of the victims. Public recognition by local and state institutions strengthens remembrance, counters genocide denial, and reinforces our collective responsibility to ensure that such crimes never happen again—anywhere in the world.”
For Rwandans in the City of Kentwood, the proclamation also carries profound meaning as a symbol of unity, reconciliation, and shared humanity.
Mr. Caleb J. Uwagaba, the president of the Rwandan community in Kentwood, Michigan, states that this recognition reflects values extending far beyond a single city or community.
“This proclamation means a tremendous deal to Rwandans in Kentwood and across the United States,” Mr. Uwagaba said. “It shows solidarity with those who lost their lives and with survivors who continue to heal. It also reminds us that remembrance must go hand in hand with unity, reconciliation, and advocacy for humanity. The lessons of 1994 are not only for Rwanda—they are for the world.”
He further noted that this year’s remembrance will be marked by a major national gathering.
“As we observe Kwibuka32, we are preparing to come together in Michigan for the U.S. National Commemoration,” he added. “We invite survivors, Rwandans, friends of Rwanda, and all people of goodwill to join us in remembrance, reflection, and renewed commitment to humanity.”
IBUKA USA and its partners view this proclamation as an important step toward broader recognition at the state and national levels. Such acknowledgments play a critical role in educating the public, promoting empathy, and strengthening global commitments to genocide prevention and human rights.
As the 32nd commemoration period approaches, Rwandans in the City of Kentwood, IBUKA USA, and survivors across the United States stand united in remembrance and solidarity. We express sincere gratitude to the City of Kentwood for honoring the victims, standing with survivors, and encouraging communities to learn from history so that crimes against humanity may never be repeated.
More information about Kwibuka32 and participation in the U.S. National Commemoration is available at: https://kwibuka32.ibukausa.org.
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