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Clemantine Wamariya
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Clemantine Wamariya
Full Name and Common Aliases
Clemantine Wamariya is a Rwandan-American writer, advocate, and survivor of the 1994 Rwandan genocide.
Birth and Death Dates
Born in 1982, exact birthdate not publicly disclosed. Survived the genocide, but her family was torn apart by it.
Nationality and Profession(s)
Rwandan-American; Writer, Advocate
Early Life and Background
Clemantine Wamariya grew up in a middle-class Rwandan family, surrounded by the lush hills of Kigali. Her early life was marked by love, laughter, and a deep connection to her culture. However, this peaceful existence was shattered when she was just 6 years old, during the 1994 genocide that claimed over 800,000 lives in Rwanda.
Major Accomplishments
In 2000, Wamariya fled to the United States as a refugee, leaving behind her family and everything she knew. She spent several years in foster care before eventually finding stability and starting college. Her determination and resilience led her to earn a degree from Yale University.
Notable Works or Actions
Wamariya's writing has been featured in prominent publications such as _The New Yorker_ and _Vogue_. She has also written an essay, "This Is What I Know About Love," which was included in the anthology _They Say I'm Paranoid: Confronting Black Racism Inside Out_. This piece showcases her ability to convey the complexities of racism, trauma, and identity.
Impact and Legacy
Wamariya's story serves as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for survival and growth in the face of unimaginable adversity. Her advocacy work focuses on promoting understanding and empathy towards refugees and survivors of genocide. Through her writing and public appearances, she aims to raise awareness about the ongoing effects of trauma and the importance of addressing systemic injustices.
Why They Are Widely Quoted or Remembered
Clemantine Wamariya's courage in sharing her experiences has helped break down barriers between communities and cultures. Her unique perspective as a survivor of genocide has made her a powerful voice for human rights and social justice. As she continues to share her story, she reminds us that even in the darkest moments, there is always hope for healing, growth, and positive change.
In 2015, Wamariya co-founded the organization Afterwords Project with her husband, Adam Foss. The project provides writing workshops and educational programs for inmates at Rikers Island, focusing on the therapeutic power of storytelling and self-expression.
As a writer, advocate, and survivor, Clemantine Wamariya has become an inspiring figure in contemporary society. Her unwavering dedication to spreading awareness about genocide, trauma, and social justice continues to impact audiences worldwide.
Quotes by Clemantine Wamariya
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It has taken me so many years to finally be in my bed and fall asleep for six hours.
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If you want to learn about the history of a people, eat their food and drink their beverages.
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After my final semester at Yale in December of 2013, I made a scary choice. Instead of looking for work - feeling over-read and underweight - that for a few months I would go wherever the wind carried me. I would become a student of the world, and I would eat.
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I am thankful to those who've listened to my story over and over as well as those who've helped me share it. For me, the act of storytelling is an act of healing.
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I never thought that being a public speaker would teach me so much about life and make it so beautiful as well.
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My formal speaking career began before a group of 10 third-graders. We drew pictures of my home in Rwanda. I told them about my mother's huge garden and our mango tree. The lessons I taught were simple. Play nicely. Take care of plants. Take care of people.
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The benefits of Umuganda are not merely economic. The day is intended to build community involvement and strengthen cohesion between persons of different background and levels. One such a benefit is that people can access authorities to articulate their needs and voice opinions on various issues.
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One of my fondest memories growing up in Rwanda was seeing everyone participating in community-building activities. This happened every Saturday at the end of month. People work together in cleaning streets, planting trees, and take care of each other by facilitating productive conversations and actions that are beneficial for the society.
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