NPR

In Rwanda, July 4 Isn't Independence Day — It's Liberation Day

It's a national holiday commemorating the day in 1994 when the killing stopped, marking the end of a 100-day genocide that left nearly a million Rwandans dead.
Thousands gather to celebrate Liberation Day in Shyira, Rwanda. Twenty-three years ago, a rebel army led by Paul Kagame, now the president, marched into Kigali to end a genocide against the Tutsi minority.

Shyira is a picture-perfect Rwandan village, surrounded by luscious green mountains. No matter where you look, even at the tip of some of the highest mountains and along the precipice of the most dangerous slopes, there are houses.

On July 4, while Americans celebrate their independence, Rwandans are celebrating Liberation Day — commemorating.

You’re reading a preview, subscribe to read more.

More from NPR

NPR3 min readAmerican Government
Johnson's Leadership Is Under Threat In The House Over Foreign Aid Bills
Kentucky Republican Thomas Massie said he would vote to oust Mike Johnson as House speaker if it came to the floor. He told Johnson in a closed-door meeting that he should resign.
NPR3 min read
Alabama Holds Its First Ever U.S. Olympic Trial For A Little-known Sport
The U.S. Olympic Team trials for slalom kayak and canoe were held at Montgomery Whitewater, a new artificial watersports complex. The city hopes to draw more tourism, while the sport seeks new fans.
NPR5 min read
Finally! Tough New Safety Rules On Silica Dust Are Out To Protect Miners' Lungs
Addressing a problem first identified 50 years ago, federal regulators say stricter new rules to limit miners' exposure to silica dust are expected to finally go on the books on Tuesday.

Related Books & Audiobooks