"Kinyarwanda" - A Story about Genocide in Rwanda April 17, 2012

Join us for a screening of the award-winning film, "Kinyarwanda," followed by a discussion with a guest speaker from the film, the first feature about the Rwandan genocide of 1994 produced, conceived, and financed by Rwandan artists. While many previous films focused on the atrocities and politics of the genocide, "Kinyarwanda" reveals more about life, faith, forgiveness, and reconciliation.
During the 1994 Rwandan genocide, the Mufti of Rwanda, the most respected Muslim leader in the country, issued a fatwa forbidding Muslims from participating in the killing of the Tutsi. As the country became a slaughterhouse, mosques became places of refuge where Muslims and Christians, Hutus, and Tutsis came together to protect each other. "Kinyarwanda," named after the language shared amongst Hutus and Tutsis, is based on true accounts from survivors who took refuge at the Grand Mosque of Kigali, the Imams who opened their doors to give refuge to the Tutsi, and to those Hutu who refused to participate in the killing.

The story interweaves six different tales that together form one powerful narrative, providing the most complex and real depiction yet presented of life and human resilience during the genocide. "These stories were so bizarre, intense, beautiful, touching, inspiring and painful that I had to write," said Executive Producer Ishmael Ntihabose. Audiences will walk away with a feeling of hope knowing that in the midst of such tragic events something beautiful can still be found.

This presentation commemorates the 18th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide. There is a suggested donation of $10 at the door, and all proceeds will go towards programming on increasing peace internationally. Learn more about the film at the Kinyarwanda website [www.kinyarwandamovie.com].

Entry to our 100-year-old building and meeting rooms is available for most wheelchair users with prior arrangements. Please call ahead (212-874-5210 x 107) for setup of our portable system and plan to arrive one hour before start time.

Official Website: http://www.nysec.org