Observing the 30th Anniversary of the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda

Floor Speech

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Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I stand today to mark the 30th anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. This devastating event, recognized worldwide, saw the brutal massacre of over 1,000,000 Tutsi in a hundred days by the Hutu-led Government and their Hutu neighbors. It was a chillingly systematic act of genocide.

Tragically, even Hutu who opposed the genocidal plan were not spared during this dark period. The scale of this atrocity stands as a severe violation of human rights and the principles of justice, inflicting immeasurable pain and suffering.

The genocide against the Tutsi serves as a somber reminder of the collective responsibility we share, both in the United States and globally, to protect the vulnerable, champion human rights, and prevent such horrors from recurring.

Every April 7th, the world has come together to commemorate this genocide, honoring the memory of the men, women, and children who lost their lives and standing in solidarity with the survivors.

This annual commemoration is not merely an act of remembrance. It serves to foster understanding among diverse communities and strengthens our collective commitment to human rights, safeguarding against persecution and violence, upholding individual liberties, and advocating for a free and inclusive society for all.

Therefore, let us:

Observe the 30th anniversary of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, remembering both the victims and survivors of this tragedy.

Acknowledge and commend the ongoing efforts of the people and Government of Rwanda in promoting peace, unity, reconciliation, and development, pledging our continued support for these endeavors.

Reaffirm our unwavering commitment to Rwanda's mission of preventing genocide and other mass atrocities, and to advancing human rights and democratic values across the globe.

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