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EDMONTON – “The commemoration of this shocking act only serves to remind us that we are stronger together,” said Nathan Cooper, Speaker of the Legislative Assembly. “Our Rwandan communities have faced much hardship, but they continue to be a positive force in our province as they move forward from this tragedy with peace and unity.” 

On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, the Legislative Assembly will host a ceremony to commemorate the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi people in Rwanda at 10 a.m. in the Legislature Building rotunda.

This year marks the 30th anniversary of the genocide, which took place over 100 days in 1994 due to ethnic and political conflicts across the country.

Speaker Nathan Cooper will deliver his remarks, followed by the Honourable Mark Ellis, Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Services, David Shepherd, MLA for Edmonton-City Centre and Her Honour the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta.

Also speaking will be Prosper Higuro, High Commissioner of the Republic of Rwanda to Canada and community member, Jean Yves Rwibutso, (Memory Keepers Association of the 1994 Genocide and vice president of United Black People of Canada). Virtual remarks will be delivered by Member of Parliament, Greg Fergus. 

The ceremony will also feature musical and spoken word performances. 

Visitors are asked to take transit, as on-site parking is limited, and use the west entrance of the Legislature Building. 

The ceremony will be live streamed on assembly.ab.ca, the Legislative Assembly’s X (Twitter), Facebook and YouTube channels. 

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Media inquiries:

Karleigh Stevenson
Communications Consultant
Legislative Assembly of Alberta
E-mail: Karleigh.Stevenson@assembly.ab.ca
Mobile: 587.873.2985