Join your neighbors for an inspiring evening of film and conversation on recovery and resilience with Carl Wilkens on Friday, January 31 at 7:30 pm at Maryland Hall in Annapolis. When the 1994 Rwandan genocide broke out, Wilkens was the only American who refused to leave the country. This event includes a screening of the documentary film “I’m Not Leaving” based on Wilkens’ story followed by a presentation on his harrowing yet hopeful journey. The evening is presented by Maryland Hall and Connect Rwanda in Partnership with St. Anne’s School of Annapolis.
During the 1994 genocide, Wilkens and his Rwandan colleagues worked together to save the lives of hundreds. His journey weaves together stories of tremendous risk and fierce compassion in the midst of slaughter. In 2011, Wilkens completed a book detailing these days titled “I’m Not Leaving.” A 40 minute documentary by the same title was later released. Each year he returns to Rwanda with students and educators to see for themselves how people are working together to rebuild their country and rebuild trust.
At this event, guests will view a screening of the documentary, followed by Wilkens’ presentation, “Finding the Good – Rwanda’s Pathways Back to Trust.” Wilkens will share about recent visits to Rwanda as well as his personal stories from the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi. Carl’s storytelling does not stop with Rwanda’s tragic history, but moves forward to the powerful and inspiring recovery process. Among the many lessons he shares from his experience is the transformative belief that we don’t have to be defined by what we lost or our worst choices. The “firing” of new brain pathways and our ability to reframe the “other” are some of the powerful tools and practices he has learned from survivors, perpetrators, and his own journey.
The screening is part of Maryland Hall’s “Courage & Community” series of programming for the arts organization’s 40th Anniversary season. The film was specially selected in recognition of the 25thAnniversary of the Rwandan Genocide.
Tickets are $15. The screening is in the Bowen Theatre, lower level of Maryland Hall at 801 Chase Street, Annapolis, MD 21401. For more information and to purchase tickets, visit marylandhall.org or call 410-263-5544.
Films at Maryland Hall are presented with support from the Goldstein-Cunitz Center for Film and New Media at Maryland Hall.
