April 7, 2026: 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rawanda Remebrance Day

WHEREAS, nearly one million people were deliberately and systematically murdered during the 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rwanda, in which Tutsi were targeted for destruction and moderate Hutu and others who opposed violence were also killed, a historical fact recognized by the United Nations, the International Criminal Tribunal for Rwanda, the African Union, and survivor communities worldwide.

WHEREAS, the genocide against the Tutsi population was characterized by widespread and organized acts of violence that claimed nearly one mllion lives of men, women, and children, and left lasting trauma and displacement among survivors and their families; and,

WHEREAS, on December 23, 2003, the United Nations designated April 7 as an international day of remembrance for the genocide in Rwanda, later named the International Day of Reflection on the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda, affirming the global responsibility to remember the victims, support survivors, and work together to prevent genocide and crimes against humanity; and,

WHEREAS, remembrance is essential in combating genocide denial, distortion, and revisionism, which continue to harm survivors and undermine the integrity of historical truth; and,

WHEREAS, the state of Michigan is home to members of the Rwandan community, including survivors, descendants, scholars, and civic leaders whose resilience, contributions, and commitment to education strengthen the cultural and economic vitality of our state; and,

WHEREAS, communities around the world observe the Kwibuka remembrance period, meaning "to remember," honoring the victims of the genocide against the Tutsi and reaffirming a commitment to truth, resilience, education, and the prevention of future atrocities; and,

WHEREAS, the State of Michigan reaffirms its commitment to human rights, the rule of law, and truthful education, and stands firmly against antisemitism, racism, xenophobia, and ethnic hatred in all forms;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Gretchen Whitmer, governor of Michigan, do hereby proclaim April 7, 2026, as 1994 Genocide Against the Tutsi in Rawanda Remebrance Day in Michigan.