Thousands of Banyamulenge Gather in Washington, D.C. to Demand Justice.

Thousands of Banyamulenge and their supporters came together in Washington, D.C. on Monday, raising their voices in a peaceful protest to demand justice and draw attention to the ongoing violence in eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo.

People traveled from different states across the U.S., some from far away, just to be part of this moment. Many carried signs, flags, and messages calling for protection of civilians and an end to attacks affecting communities in South Kivu, especially in places like Minembwe.

The gathering was organized by members of the Banyamulenge diaspora, who say they can no longer stay silent while their families and communities back home continue to suffer. For many who attended, this was more than a protest, it was personal.

“We are here because our people are hurting,” one participant said. “We want the world to see us, to hear us, and to understand what is happening.”

The demonstration remained peaceful, with a strong focus on unity and awareness. Organizers stressed that their goal was to bring international attention to what they describe as ongoing killings, displacement, and insecurity in the region.

Participants at the protest also accused armed groups and forces they say are involved in the violence, including elements they identified as Congolese forces, Burundian troops, Wazalendo militias, and the FDLR, which originated in Rwanda after the 1994 Genocide against the Tutsi.

According to protesters, these groups have been responsible for attacks on civilians, including killings, the destruction of homes, and the loss of livestock. They also claim that access to food has been severely affected, with key routes blocked, leaving many families in extremely difficult conditions.

These claims reflect what demonstrators say their communities are experiencing on the ground, and they are calling for independent investigations and international attention to verify and address the situation.

The Banyamulenge, a Tutsi community mainly from eastern Congo, have faced years of conflict tied to ethnic tensions and armed violence. In recent years, members of the diaspora have increasingly stepped forward, organizing protests like this one to push for global recognition and action.

Monday’s turnout in Washington showed just how urgent the situation feels for many. Voices rose together with one clear message, a call for justice, safety, and the right to live in peace.

Image cover was taken by Gakondo TV.