The U.S. state of Michigan has officially designated April 7 as a day to commemorate the Genocide against the Tutsi, joining the international community in honoring the victims, supporting survivors, promoting truth, and fighting genocide denial and distortion.
This decision comes after the United States began using the official designation “Genocide against the Tutsi in 1994,” a terminology recognized by the United Nations General Assembly on January 26, 2018.
It also follows a similar initiative by the city of Kentwood, which earlier announced that it would annually join Rwandans and the international community in commemorating the Genocide against the Tutsi every April 7.
The Governor of Michigan, Gretchen Whitmer, stated that she recognizes the extreme brutality of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi and the deep trauma it left among survivors.
Whitmer emphasized that remembering the victims, supporting survivors, and working together to prevent genocide and crimes against humanity are global responsibilities. She added that commemoration helps combat denial and distortion of historical facts.
She further noted that Michigan remains committed to upholding human rights, promoting historical education, and opposing hatred in all forms, including racism, xenophobia, and discrimination.
“Therefore, I, Gretchen Whitmer, Governor of Michigan, hereby proclaim April 7, 2026, as a day of remembrance for the Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda in 1994 in Michigan,” she declared.
The decision was welcomed by IBUKA USA and the Rwandan community living in Michigan.
The President of IBUKA USA, Marcel Mutsindashyaka, said the proclamation represents a strong commitment to truth.
“When the Genocide against the Tutsi is given its rightful name, it honors the victims and affirms the truth survivors have carried for many years,” he said.
Caleb J. Uwagaba, President of the Rwandan community in Michigan, also noted that the governor’s decision carries significant meaning both in Michigan and across the United States.
“It honors those who lost their lives, reinforces the truth of our history, and supports survivors who continue their healing journey. Michigan’s decision strengthens our commitment to promoting unity, reconciliation, and human dignity, while ensuring that the lessons of 1994 guide future generations,” he said.
Michigan joins other U.S. states that have adopted the official recognition of the Genocide against the Tutsi and participate in its commemoration, including Ohio, Utah, and Texas.
