INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE AFRICAN CHILD

Furaha Joyce, Family 6

Yesterday, we celebrated International Day of the African Child. The history of this day dates back to the events that took place in Soweto, South Africa during Apartheid. In 1976 many children marched the streets to protest the inferior quality of their education and to demand their right to be taught in their own language. Hundreds of young boys and girls were shot down; and in the two weeks of protest that followed, more than a hundred people were killed and more than a thousand were injured. We recognize this day because we honor their memory and it is a reminder that we must protect our children. When we remember the children of Soweto, we look at our Rwandan history and honor the many children that were also killed here during the genocide.

To commemorate, we had an amazing program. There were traditional dance performances, modern dances, many kids performed songs, and after we all ate special foods because it was a special event. In the dinning hall there was a banner that read, “Planning for the wellbeing of our children is a collective responsibly.” I think this banner was speaking to our village elders, but I believe that we are also responsible for making bright futures for ourselves. This means I must study very hard in school and support my brothers and sisters in the village. When I graduate I want to help the children in Rwanda who do not have parents or money. I want to provide them hope for a good life.