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12/15/2007: "Too Cool..."

Linda got me this basket for my birthday- it is a Rwanda Peace basket.

Rwanda, a tiny land-locked country in eastern Africa, tragically is best known for the horrific genocide that occurred in 1994. The Rwandan genocide lasted 100 days and claimed the lives of over 800,000 people.

Rwanda is now a country in which women are rising to the forefront of economic, political and social institutions. In the immediate aftermath of the genocide, females represented 70% of Rwanda's population since so many men had been killed. After some time had passed, the women were faced with a decision of either collapsing of inconsolable pain, or moving on together to rebuild their lives.

Because so many men had perished, it was clear that women must play a significant role in Rwanda's rebuilding and democratic transition. Previously excluded from positions of influence, women now participate as elected officials, community leaders, and entrepreneurs.

Today widows come together to make exquisite traditional baskets and create economic opportunities for their families. As they sit and weave, they heal in body, mind, and soul, and position themselves and their families for a more stable future.

Buying the baskets help feed the families- so not only is it a really nice decorative basket- it helps support those in need and supports the message of PEACE in the world.

I LOVE IT!

Replies: 1 Comment

What a great gift! You go Linda! I have two of these types of baskets that are from Arizona, not a Rwanda Peace one though. Anyway, I love mine too and have them on display on my media center. Hope your birthday was great and hope you got my message!

Erin said on Monday, December 17th @ 11 :34 AM CST