Ghosts of Rwanda

Commenting on the horrific acts of genocide taking place in Rwanda in 1994, Ghosts of Rwanda marks the 10^th anniversary and the return of many politicians. In an attempt to clear their conscience of the crisis that still haunts their soul, politicians that refused to intervene came to pay their tribute. Taking you through the perspective of Rwanda’s citizens, their government, the US government, and many other countries, this documentary provides the full scope of events that occurred during the genocide. It states the many behind-the-scene actions that many were unaware of and depicts the corruption in the US government towards their lack of involvement. The sad truth depicted in this documentary is sure to bring tears to your eyes at the inspirational stories of Tutsi survivors such as Valentina Ibirbagiza.

Though many scenes in this film conjured up feelings of angst and sorrow towards the Rwandans the most powerful story in my eyes is that of Valentina’s. At the mere age of 12 she was the only one able to survive the horrific killings of the Nyarubuye church massacre. The Roman Catholic church was meant to be a sanctuary for refugee Tutsi and Hutu moderates seeking safety from the interhamwe, yet Hutu extremists managed to massacre them all. An alarming number of over 5,000 dead, Valentina explains how her only chance at survival was to hide herself under the large weight of dead bodies. For 43 days this poor girl was forced to stay in this small church filled with the scent of rotting bodies. By the time the Red Cross reached her she was at a horrible state, yet the fact that she lived through it and is here today to tell her story is truly inspirational. Valentina is a hero, and deserves to be recognized for her bravery.

Out of the many films of genocide that we have watched, I believe this was the most factual and beneficial. It accurately portrays the selfishness of the United States government and heroism of Tutsi survivors. The stories told in this powerful documentary are a necessity for all individuals to understand, and we must work towards ensuring a massacre such as this will never go unnoticed again.