Genocide Commemorators Seek Medical Treatment

During Rwanda’s Genocide Commemoration Week last month, more than 400 people were admitted to hospitals or trauma handling centers.

Vigils and ceremonies brought survivors of the genocide back to 1994 – back to the horror and the unimaginable and inexcusable slaughter of hundreds of thousands of Tutsis and moderate Hutus. Wounds were reopened and memories came flooding in.

One individual attending a vigil broke down in tears and begged not to be cut.

Although painful, commemoration of the genocide is important. The unfortunate revitalization of trauma does not mean that the atrocities of 1994 should be forgotten. Rather, it means that the obstacles facing these individuals as they fight for stability and reconciliation, 15 years later, should not be forgotten.

Another note – those traumatized in Rwanda continue to outnumber available facilities and counselors equipped to provide the necessary support.