Montreal marked the 30th anniversary of the genocide in Rwanda

The 30th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide brought back painful memories for survivors in Montreal. Many, like Odile Sanabaso, are still dealing with the trauma of the massacre, which killed more than 800,000 Tutsis. Despite the pain, Rwandan groups in Montreal are organizing events to ensure the victims are not forgotten and to honor their memory. Sandra Gasana of PAGE Rwanda believes that sharing her stories is a contribution to society and prevents others from experiencing similar atrocities.

Survivors like Philibert Muzima find it difficult to tell their stories to their children while dealing with their own trauma. Muzima, who lost several family members in the massacre, is writing a book to share her experiences with her children as they grow up. Sanabaso, on the other hand, is at a loss as to how to broach the subject, fearing that it might cause anger and resentment as her young children grow older. The challenge is to pass on the memory without hurt or hatred.

Susan Solomon, co-director of the documentary Après Revolution, notes the common experience of survivors of the Holocaust and the Rwandan genocide – the lack of graves for their loved ones. This void shapes their lives and drives them to build their futures around the voids left by the loss of their families. Some survivors believe that a memorial should be built in Canada to commemorate the victims of the Rwandan genocide. Muzima and Sanabaso advocate for a memorial where survivors and non-survivors can come together and create a space for remembrance and unity.

Sanabaso stresses the importance of recognizing the experiences of survivors, who are Canadian citizens, just like Canada itself. He believes that building a memorial in Canada will help survivors bear the burden of the past and show the country's solidarity and support. He compares his situation to First Nations communities in Canada, who also carry the weight of historical trauma and seek recognition for their experiences. The memorial in Canada represents a country that stands behind the survivors and recognizes their pain and endurance.

The efforts of Rwandan groups in Montreal to commemorate the genocide through events and activities reflect the desire to ensure that the memory of the victims lives on. Despite the pain and trauma survivors like Sanabaso and Muzima have endured, they are willing to share their stories in hopes of preventing future atrocities. In Canada, the proposal for a memorial to the Rwandan genocide is seen as a way to honor the victims, provide a space for remembrance and unity, and acknowledge the experiences of survivors who bear the burden of the past. Building a memorial can be a symbol of support and recognition from Canada, helping survivors feel that the country is behind them on their journey of healing and remembrance.