Twenty-nine years ago, an unimaginable horror occurred. During 100 days of terror in Rwanda, hundreds of thousands of Tutsi were murdered in a genocide – violence incited by hate speech that was directed at minority communities. The Hutu and Twa who dared to oppose these crimes were also killed.

Today, we join the people of Rwanda as they pause for Kwibuka – 100 days of mourning to grieve for the innocent lives lost. We stand with the survivors who witnessed these terrible crimes. We honor the bravery of those who stood up and spoke out to stop the killing, fear, and hatred.

My career in the Foreign Service includes being in Rwanda in 1994 at the start of the genocide, when I worked as a regional refugee coordinator. Decades later, it is remarkable to reflect on the tremendous transformation the people of Rwanda have made.

The United States is proud to stand with the people and Government of Rwanda in their efforts to overcome the terrible legacy of one of the darkest chapters in human history. We commend Rwanda for choosing to pursue justice for the victims, which contributed to the communal healing from the deepest of wounds and helped reconcile a nation.

As we stand against hate, let us renew our commitment to the UN Charter to ensure that mass atrocities like this never occur again.

Original source can be found here.