The man behind ‘Hotel Rawanda’ to speak at USU

Utah State University students will have the opportunity to hear the real story behind “Hotel Rwanda” (2004) on Thursday, Feb. 2 at 3 p.m. in the TSC Ballroom.

Paul Rusesabagina saved the lives of more than 1,200 refugees staying in a Rwandan hotel in 1994 during conflict between the Hutus and Tutsis.

An estimated 800,000 people were killed within a 100 day period.

Rusesabagina’s personal story is the basis for the film “Hotel Rwanda” which was nominated for three academy awards.

The film features Don Cheadle, Sophie Okonedo, Joaquin Phoenix and Nick Nolte.

“It’s a great opportunity. We’ve had more interest in this speaker than in any other,” said Walter Yates, a student helping to organize the event. “It’s a real treat for the community.”

Rusesabagina has written an autobiography entitled, “An Ordinary Man,” and Yates said Rusesabagina will be signing book covers on Thursday as well.

Students interested in understanding the full story before they attend Thursday’s lecture can attend a screening of “Hotel Rwanda” in the TSC Ballroom tonight.

Screenings will begin at 7 p.m. and 9:30 p.m.

All events are free of charge and open to the public so students are encouraged to invite all their friends and family from the community.

Information compiled by Brooke Nelson/bnelson@cc.usu.edu