Summary of events

To honor the victims of the Tutsi genocide, Humura Association orchestrates a diverse array of activities and events throughout the month of April, symbolizing the commencement of the genocide on April 7 and its conclusion on July 4th. Additionally, the organization is committed to empowering the survivors' community in the Ottawa-Gatineau region through various initiatives. These impactful events and activities include:

  1. Parliament Hill Launch Event: The commemorative activities commence with a launch event on Parliament Hill, extending invitations to diverse communities and government representatives who come together to honor the victims.

  2. Book Reading Event: In recent years, Humura has successfully hosted a book reading event that connects readers with authors who have documented the genocide. This event serves as a platform for discussions on hate, racism, and the impact of discrimination, inspiring individuals to contribute to the literature on the genocide.

  3. Virtual Conferences on Mental Health: Acknowledging the enduring trauma and mental health challenges faced by Tutsi genocide survivors, Humura organizes virtual conferences addressing mental health care. The primary goal is to prevent tragedies such as suicide, especially considering the ongoing community trauma and challenges posed by the pandemic.

  4. Closing Ceremony and Interfaith Event: At the conclusion of the commemoration period, Humura organizes a closing ceremony featuring an interfaith event where religious leaders deliver messages of hope for the future. The event includes a warm meal, drinks, and engaging activities.

  5. Summer Community Barbecues and games: During the summer, Humura actively organizes community barbecues and games designed to counteract isolation and promote social cohesion among community members.

  6. Hope Day Gala Event in fall: In the fall season, Humura extends an invitation to the public for its annual Hope Day Gala event. This community celebration spotlights the cultural diversity within the Rwandan community, empowering individuals through educational workshops, networking opportunities, cultural performances, and discussions. The overarching aim is to combat isolation and foster inclusivity in Ottawa.

In essence, these events collectively underscore themes of remembrance, education, community collaboration, youth empowerment, advocacy, and cultural celebration. Their overarching goal is to achieve outcomes such as increased awareness, understanding, collaboration, and the prevention of discrimination and violence, thereby fostering a more inclusive and empathetic society.

To relive these impactful moments, photos and videos of all these activities and events can be accessed on our social media platforms.