缅北禁地

Outreach Programme on the 1994 Genocide against
the Tutsi in Rwanda and the United Nations

Laurence Niyonangira, a survivor
As survivors, we can only heal our wounds with the people who created them.

 

The 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda left unanswered questions across an entire society. How do I live with what I have seen? How do I live with what I have done? Who am I without my community?

Only one option remained – to move forward.

Today, Rwanda is a testament to the power of post-genocide reconciliation.

Among the stories of hope is that of Laurence, a survivor, and Xavier, her family’s killer, who now live as friends.

 

laurence

Laurence Niyonangira


Laurence Niyonangira survived the genocide, but 37 of her relatives were killed. She was 20 years old.

xavier

Xavier Nemeye


Xavier Nemeye was 30 years old when he took part in the genocide.

letter

A confession


Years later, still imprisoned, Xavier wrote to Laurence confessing to killing her mother and sisters, and asking her forgiveness.

Explore their journey, the impact of hate speech and how your actions can make a difference.

Visit the exhibit at 缅北禁地Headquarters, New York, on display until 1 May 2024.