PROGRAMS - U.N. INTERNATIONAL DAY IN SUPPORT OF VICTIMS OF TORTURE
RMSC’s 2007 Commemoration of the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture

Rocky Mountain Survivors Center celebrated the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture this year on June 24th. The event was held at Babi Yar Park, a Denver park that serves as a memorial for victims of the Babi Yar genocide and the Holocaust. The evening began with a picnic and was followed by a presentation including speeches by dignitaries, a candle-lighting ceremony, prayers from three religions, and an international cultural presentation prepared by survivors. Speakers included Ann McNulty, RMSC Board of Directors President; Ernest Duff, RMSC Executive Director; Rev. Heidi McGinness, Christian Solidarity International – USA Director of Outreach; Tim Kubik, United Nations Association Colorado Division President; and Roz Duman, Coalition for Genocide Awareness and Action Founder/Coordinator. Additionally, a letter from Governor Ritter and a proclamation from Mayor Hickenlooper were read showing their support for victims of torture.

The next portion of the event was planned and presented by a group of RMSC participants, who devoted a great deal of time and energy to preparing for the event. It began with a candle-lighting and moment of silence to remember the victims who did not survive. Prayers from three different religions were given: a Jewish prayer by Rabbi Yossi Serebryanski, a Muslim prayer by Sh. Ammar Amonette, and a Christian prayer by an RMSC participant. Next, the participants read their original poetry and a speech about their experiences of torture and resettlement in the United States. Additionally, the participants presented African singing, dancing, and drumming. Their inspirational words paid homage to those who have not survived, honored those who have, and opposed the use of torture around the world.

With this event, RMSC undertook a large outreach effort. The agency partnered with the Mizel Museum to promote the event on a large scale throughout the city. RMSC outreached to current collaborators as well as new potential partners in order to spread the message of ending torture to a larger audience. RMSC contacted various human rights organizations, religious groups, and other supportive agencies to reach the greatest extent of the Denver community as possible. Additionally, RMSC promoted the event at local supermarkets and solicited donations of refreshments. Over 100 people attended showing their support of victims of torture as well as the eradication of torture throughout the world.

KGNU radio program about our event (click on June 26, 2007)

Works Read at Event

Please Accept Me (poem written by a survivor)

Lead Us Through Lord (poem written by a survivor)

Speech (written by survivors)

Address given by Rev. Heidi McGinness, Director of Outreach for Christian Solidarity International - USA

International Rehabilitation Council for Torture Victims Statement for Global Reading