The Rwandan Genocide is not taught as much as it should be in classrooms. Firstly, it gives students the opportunity to learn about regions other than the often Euro-centric curriculum. This Genocide allows students to examine how people who lived so close to one another, could almost be related, could attack and brutally massacre their neighbors. Again, facts and opinions are both sensitive when teaching this genocide, be sure that your sources are accurate, in particular fair to the victims. This information should enlighten your students on the importance of human compassion - not scare them.
Book: Shake Hands with the Devil: The Failure of Humanity in Rwanda Description: On the 1oth anniversary of when UN peacekeepers landed in Rwanda, Random House Canada proudly publishes the unforgettable 1st-hand account of the genocide by the leader of the mission. Digging deep into shattering memories, Dallaire has written a powerful story of betrayal, naivete, racism and international politics. His message is simple, undeniable: Never again. source: www.goodreads.com Tips: like all other genocides, the question remains - what was the international communities involvement. This book is a great opportunity to dissect Canada's role in the Rwandan Genocide. Again, it is a time to ask how could something like this happen? Why? Movie: Hotel Rwanda Description: Paul Rusesabagina, a Hutu, manages the Hotel des Mille Collines and lives a happy life with his Tutsi wife and their three children. But when Hutu military forces initiate a campaign of ethnic cleansing against the Tutsi minority, Paul is compelled to allow refugees to take shelter in his hotel. As the UN pulls out, Paul must struggle alone to protect the Tutsi refugees in the face of the escalating violence later known as the Rwandan Genocide. Tips: This is a great, and well known film. Some of your students may have seen it for themselves. Take the opportunity to pause between scenes, discuss and share ideas. Remember, as with all these films, images may be hard to digest - give your students a moment to take in what they have seen, a 'moment of silence' may help them come to terms with the images. Do not be afraid to fast forward through clips that seem too burdensome - listen to your students. This film touches again on international involvement, and the will of human beings to remain compassionate and stay alive. |