Rwandan genocide discussion to aid charity

A Newport Beach-based nonprofit is holding a fundraiser Sunday to benefit an East African refugee recovery program.

Living Ubuntu’s goal is to focus on mind-body issues, including the effects of stress and trauma.

“Eyewitness to Genocide: The Journey of Carl Wilkens — An Event to Highlight Trauma, Refugees and Recovery” takes place from 4 to 7 p.m. at St. Mark Presbyterian Church, 2200 San Joaquin Hills Road, Newport Beach.

Wilkens is an American who witnessed the 1994 Rwandan genocide, which led to 500,000 to 1 million deaths in about 100 days. Wilkens will tell of his experiences in the East African state at that time.

The event will include food, a silent auction, stories from other refugees and booths focusing on international issues.

Tickets are $45, or $30 for students.

“Trauma is a silent epidemic in our world,” Barbara English, co-founder and executive director of Living Ubuntu, said in a prepared statement. “Trauma shatters a person. If left untreated and unhealed, [it] prevents one from working, caring for loved ones, and leading a healthy, productive and fulfilling life.”

For more information or to buy tickets, visit https://www.livingubuntu.org or call (949) 891-2005.

—Bradley Zint

Twitter: @bradleyzint