Rwandan author and artist Gaël Faye recently gave a lecture at Georgetown University in Washington D.C., United States, where he discussed his book 'Jacaranda', which focuses on remembering the past and rebuilding life and family in Rwanda after the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi. The event was part of his ongoing tour in the US to promote his book, which will be featured in various cities, where he will meet with book lovers and students.
During the lecture, Gaël Faye reflected on Rwanda's journey towards peace, unity, and reconciliation after the genocide, highlighting the importance of remembering the past in building a better future. He also emphasized the need for continued attention to the issue of genocide ideology and its denial, stating that it remains a challenge that requires ongoing efforts to combat.
Gaël Faye's book 'Jacaranda' explores the impact of the genocide on individuals and families, the importance of remembrance, and the ways in which people can rebuild their lives after traumatic events. The book tells the story of a young boy named Milan, who lived in Versailles, France, during the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi.
The book, which was first published in French in 2024, was translated into English by Sarah Ardizzone and released on August 25, 2026. 'Jacaranda' is Gaël Faye's second book, following 'Petit Pays', which was published in August 2016. The book has been well-received, and its US tour is expected to continue at various institutions and literary events.
As part of his US tour, Gaël Faye will participate in several events, including a discussion at Politics & Prose in Washington D.C. on November 3, followed by events at Villa Albertine in New York, La Maison Française at Columbia University, Carter Center in Atlanta, SCADshow, and Spelman College. The tour will conclude on November 10 at the Charleston Literary Festival.
Gaël Faye's lecture at Georgetown University provided a platform for discussing the role of literature in preserving history, promoting understanding, and educating future generations about the events that occurred in Rwanda. The event highlighted the significance of books like 'Jacaranda' in sharing the story of the genocide and its aftermath with a wider audience.
Through his book and US tour, Gaël Faye aims to raise awareness about the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi and its ongoing impact on Rwanda, while also promoting a message of hope, resilience, and reconciliation. His efforts seek to engage readers and listeners in a conversation about the importance of remembering the past and working towards a more peaceful and unified future.
Key points
- Gaël Faye's book 'Jacaranda' explores the impact of the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi on individuals and families.
- The book is part of Gaël Faye's ongoing efforts to promote understanding and reconciliation in Rwanda.
- Gaël Faye's US tour aims to share the story of the genocide and its aftermath with a wider audience.
