Statement from Jack Layton on the 15th anniversary of the Rwandan genocide

“This year, we mark 15 years since the mass killing of hundreds of thousands of Rwandans over 100 days while the world turned a blind eye in 1994.”

“Today, it is important that we reflect on what happened in Rwanda, and the lessons the world should take away from that tragedy.”

“When the killing started in Rwanda, the rest of the world made the decision to turn away. This is why it is so important now for Canada to follow the example of Roméo Dallaire and participate wholeheartedly in efforts to bring peace and stability to the Darfur region of Sudan, and to the Democratic Republic of Congo.”

“My thoughts, and those of New Democrats from coast to coast to coast, are with those survivors of the Rwandan genocide who still struggle with their memories every day.”