Hotel Rwanda Wrap-Up

Austinist just returned from seeing Paul Rusesabagina speak at UT. It was a packed house, and we know many of you weren't able to see him. He said a lot of important things, and so we wanted to pass those things onto you.

Mr. Rusesabagina primarily gave the audience insight into the story of the Rwandan genocide that was featured in the movie, Hotel Rwanda. His big message however, was for us to make ourselves aware of conflicts happening in the Sudan-Darfur region and on the Ivory Coast. Rusesabagina's hope is that the West, especially the United States, will be active in sending aid to these regions.

To help, you can educate yourself on these issues (if you haven't already) and contact your representatives in Washington and in Austin. Make sure they're aware of your concern.
...You know...if you want.

Contact the author of this article or email tips@austinist.com with further questions, comments or tips.

By Katie Spence in News on April 12, 2005 9:50 AM 0 Comments

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eva

Seeing last night's line to get in to see Paul Rusesabugina made me incredibly anxious. It was not because I might not get in to see the speaker, it was the kind of anxiety and energy I get when surrounded by people poised to act. It is always a great time.

Rusesabugina's words were strong, raw and urgent. He told in 45 minutes the story of a region destroyed over generations by both external and internal powers, then abandoned by those with the power to help. Maybe I was the only one who wasn't familiar with the all the details of the long troubled past of Rwanda – but now laid out so simply I was educated and given my marching orders.

Thanks Austinist for the links, I am sorry to hear that form letters seem to be the only response currently given by our Senators in Washington. Maybe Reps are a better way to go? Or possibly people with a national profile but no voter base to secure? I would love to hear other’s comments on the steps they have taken or proposal of action.

We cannot turn our backs and we cannot count on others to demand justice.

That is the job of those of us with hearts, those of us still filled with anxiety.

Ray

Just FYI, if you contact John "The Knife" Cornyn or Kay Bailey "I'm not Hillary" Hutchinson on this issue, you'll get back form letter responses talking about how much they've done to stop the genocide in Darfur.

Clearly the impending genocide of the judiciary is higher on their list of priorities.