10th Anniversary Commemoration of Rwanda Genocide

Mr. President, Head of States, Excellencies, Victims and Survivors, I am humbled to participate in this important event. Mr. President, my delegation thanks you for your invitation, and we come here on behalf and at the request of my President, to join Rwanda in mourning and commemorating the victims of the Rwanda Genocide. President Bush understands the importance of this day and the solemnity of its meaning. He and our nation mark this occasion with a heavy heart and the knowledge that this community suffered a terrible wrong – the massive loss of innocent life.

In her hour of need, Rwanda found herself alone and in peril. Rwandans suffered and humanity was assaulted. I note that former President Clinton visited in 1998 and gave his words of apology. Today, we continue to express our sorrow and regret for the victims of the genocide, and we mourn the lives lost.

The extensive loss of life became apparent very quickly, and the international community knew within a short amount of time after April 7, 1994 that the killings were widespread and largely ethnically based. When faced with genocide, we have a responsibility, one that requires us to do something. In the case of Rwanda, anything would have made a difference and could have saved thousands of lives.

Now we live with the lesson from Rwanda that we must show courage in the face of danger. As threats gather, evil doers conspire, and violence looms, we must be prepared to make bold decisions in the interest of humanity. Being a witness to genocide is not an option. Being paralyzed by politics is not acceptable. Brutality must spur us to be vigilant, be forceful, and to speak out for what is right, even if the challenge may seem overwhelming and even if the outcome or full knowledge of the threat is uncertain. Saving lives is a moral obligation of all nations and all individuals. And if it requires our taking a chance for the sake of current and future generations, then we must do so. Using our best judgment, we should always choose to act rather than hope that with time reason will prevail.

The United States, for its part, will continue to help Rwanda in tracking genocidaires in order to bring peace and lasting stability. The United States will also continue to assist in the unification of families, providing scholarships, combating HIV/AIDS, and promoting the rule of law in order to help Rwandans build their future.

Tonight, we mourn, we pray, we grieve for the victims of Rwanda. Tomorrow, we will remember, speak out, and act for humanity. Rwanda’s children, like those everywhere, must be assured of a future of hope, dignity, and peace.