Glen Cove High School Sophomores Hear Powerful Testimony from Rwandan Genocide Survivor

Glen Cove High School sophomore students were deeply moved today by a powerful and emotional presentation from Consolee Nishimwe, a survivor of the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda. Held in Room 123, the assembly gave students from Mr. Vasquez and Mr. Yeh's classes the unique opportunity to hear firsthand testimony from someone who lived through one of the most devastating atrocities of the 20th century.

Consolee shared her harrowing story of survival, resilience, and hope in the face of unthinkable loss and trauma. She suffered physical and emotional torture during her three onths in hiding and miraculously survived with her mother and younger sister. Her message resonated deeply with students who, in their Global History classes, have been studying the Ten Stages of Genocide and learning about the genocide of the Tutsi people in Rwanda. The assembly served as a powerful extension of their classroom learning, offering a human connection to the history they’ve explored.

As they listened to Consolee’s story, many students reflected on the similarities between the Rwandan Genocide and the Holocaust, two moments in history marked by targeted hate, systematic violence, and the silence of the international community. These comparisons helped students understand the recurring patterns of genocide and deepened their commitment to recognizing the signs and standing up against injustice in their own communities.

Students described the experience as “emotional,” “eye-opening,” and “unforgettable.” Many expressed that Consolee’s testimony helped them grasp the importance of kindness, empathy, and the responsibility we all share to speak out against hatred and discrimination.

“We are incredibly grateful to Consolee for her courage in sharing her story with our students,” said Mrs. Poulos, Social Studies Coordinator. “Her words reminded us that history is not just about dates and facts...it’s about people. And it’s through stories like hers that our students come to understand the real impact of intolerance and the importance of compassion.”The event aligns with Glen Cove High School’s ongoing efforts to foster global awareness, empathy, and civic responsibility among students. Consolee Nishimwe’s visit will leave a lasting impact on all who attended. 

A special thank you goes to Donna Rosenblum and Zachary Graulich of the Glen Cove Holocaust Memorial and Tolerance center, whose support and collaboration made this meaningful learning experience possible for our students.  

Today, Consolee is a committed speaker on the genocide, a defender of women rights and an advocate for other genocide survivors. “No matter what horrible circumstances you may face in your life never lose hope, for losing hope is the beginning of your own self-defeat " Consolee’s mantra