This report was authored by Aamina Muhsin, Nahdiya Nasoordeen Danish, and Inuri Hettithanthirige Tennakoon from SLRM
Introduction to SLRM
The Easter Sunday Attack of 2019 left a profound scar on Sri Lanka, deepening community suspicion, mistrust, and racism.
The attack, which claimed 269 lives—including 45 foreign nationals, 3 police officers, and 9 suicide bombers—and injured over 500, was a coordinated act of terrorism targeting Catholics, Christians, and hotel guests at 8 locations across Colombo and Batticaloa. In response, the Easter Attack Survivors Project (EASP) emerged.
An initiative of the S.L. Reconciliation Movement (SLRM) registered under the Companies Act No. 7 of 2007, Company Number GA 00253358, SLRM advocates for reconciliation through storytelling.
The project uses personal narratives to raise awareness, promote positive change in the post-attack context, and foster a sense of community among survivors by sharing their stories.
Having interviewed direct victims of the attack who lost their loved ones, the team has learned that victims are not only those that are labelled so. Victims also include others. Various indirect victims and survivors exist, including children and innocent family members of perpetrators and detainees.
The SLRM team has therefore worked with several survivor categories and have produced work on the following:
- The Survivors Speak: 2021; a video series of stories from the Katuwapitiya survivors
- Foreign Survivors Speak: 2021; discussions and videos with foreign survivors
- The Other Side: 2023; a video series of stories from the wives and mothers of the detainees in the eastern province of Sri Lanka
- Interfaith discussions on the Easter Sunday attack: 2022; a collaboration with the Medical Faculty of UOC resulting in the Human Library discussion on the Easter Sunday attack consequences
- Workshops for educational institutions: 2021-2023; Combatting extremism and violent extremism in the post-Easter attack context
To read more about the organization and its work visit the website links at S.L. Reconciliation Movement and its Easter Attack Survivors Project.
‘In Their Memory’ a memorial exhibition supported by Internews
“In Their Memory” was an educative, story-telling Memorial Exhibition held at the International Centre for Ethnic Studies (ICES) in Colombo, on the 19th of October, 2024.
The aim of the memorial exhibition was to raise awareness of the stories of the victims & survivors of the Easter Sunday attack that hit Sri Lanka in 2019.
“In Their Memory” focused on the narratives of the direct survivors & victims, and revolved around three main themes:
- Trauma, grief and loss
- Inter-faith & inter-ethnic relations
- Understanding the importance of reconciliation & memorialization
The program included:
- A Film screening
- Panel Discussion with experts in the field, followed by a Q&A session
- Choir performance
- Theatre performance
- Art Exhibition
Event Gallery
Team of Volunteers
A Thank you note to the Funders
We extend our deepest gratitude to Internews Sri Lanka, whose generous support—funded by the Canadian Government—made the “In Their Memory” memorial exhibition possible.
We are profoundly grateful to the Government of Canada, the High Commissioner of Canada, Mr. Eric Walsh, and Linda Ehrichs, who honored us by representing the High Commissioner with her presence at this solemn event.
Special thanks are also due to Mr. Shashen Fernando from Internews for his dedicated collaboration, which was instrumental in bringing this memorial to fruition.
Thank you for supporting this project, trusting us, and standing with us in remembrance and solidarity.
From, Aamina Muhsin, Inuri Hettithanthirige Tennakoon, and Nahdiya Nasoordeen Danish and the entire team of SLRM Volunteers
Outcomes & Impact of the Activities of the Memorial Exhibition
- Documentary screening [The Survivors Speak & The Other Side]
- Survivors and Expert discussion followed by Q&A
- Theatre Performance on Violent Extremism & Grief
- Choir performance
- Survivor story sharing exhibition
1. Documentary Screening
Through direct interviews with all kinds of survivors of the attack, the EASP team has in its possession impactful documentaries on the survivors stories and the stories of the families of the detainees in the eastern province.
As the opening of the official program, this session helped the audience immerse in a visual experience of the impact of the Easter Sunday terror attack. The first short film, which is an episode out of our series titled ‘The Survivors Speak’ mainly revolves around the interviews that we conducted with the survivors of the Easter Sunday attack. It delves into the stories of those who were directly affected by that devastating day – those who lost family, friends, children and loved ones. It is a powerful short documentary that captivates the very voice of the survivors. Our second short film, which is an episode off our docu-series titled ‘The Other Side’. This is a series of interviews made with the family and loved ones of those detained after the Easter Attack. This documentary seeks to highlight a different perspective of all the chaos that followed that fateful day, and explores the lives and perspectives of the families of the accused.
This activity presented two perspectives from vulnerable groups affected by the Easter attack: the survivors and the families of alleged perpetrators who were detainees. The documentary highlighted the struggles and the ongoing struggles of both groups, portraying the profound impact of the incident on their daily lives even five years later.
The audience appeared moved by the emotional depth of both stories, gaining a deeper understanding of the long-term challenges faced by both survivors and the families of detainees. This screening successfully met its objective, helping the audience recognize the lasting effects of the attack on all those involved, underscoring the importance of empathy and continued support.
The screening not only fostered a sense of awareness but also encouraged attendees to reflect on their own perceptions and assumptions about the affected communities, promoting a more compassionate and nuanced understanding of the complexities surrounding the aftermath of the Easter Sunday Attack.
- Documentary screening [The Survivors Speak & The Other Side]
- Expert discussion followed by Q&A
- Theatre Performance on Violent Extremism & Grief
- Choir performance
- Survivor story sharing exhibition
2. Expert panel discussion followed by Q&A session
An insightful expert panel discussion featuring esteemed figures from the Easter Sunday attack landscape engaged in profound conversations. This helped the audience explore perspectives on healing, resilience, and legal and societal progress as we collectively reflected on the journey from tragedy to hope.
Nahdiya Danish, Head of Strategy at SLRM moderated the session, with the expert panelists being Ms. Aneesa Firthouse (who works with the families of the detainees), Mr. Indika Perera (an academic and lecturer who works in conflict resolution), and Rev. Father Prasad Harshan (who works with the victims and survivors of the Catholic Churches affected in Colombo).
The objective of this project was to facilitate an engaging and informative panel discussion that addressed the ongoing struggles and resilience of communities affected by the Easter Sunday Attack in Sri Lanka.
The panel aimed to shed light on the complexities surrounding the survivors’ experiences, the roles of women in the aftermath, and the legal and political frameworks that impact recovery and reconciliation.
The discussion sought to promote understanding, combat misinformation, and highlight the importance of community solidarity in the healing process. Attendees gained a deeper understanding of the ongoing challenges faced by survivors of the Easter Sunday Attack, as well as the impact of the political and legal landscape on their recovery. The discussion emphasized the dual roles of women in Kathankudy as well as Katuwapitiya Negombo, highlighting their resilience and active participation in advocating for justice and social cohesion.
The panel inspired attendees to engage actively with their communities, fostering a culture of support and collaboration among diverse groups in the aftermath of trauma. Overall, the panel discussion served as a catalyst for ongoing dialogue and action towards healing, justice, and reconciliation within Sri Lankan society.
- Documentary screening [The Survivors Speak & The Other Side]
- Expert discussion followed by Q&A
- Theatre Performance on Violent Extremism & Grief
- Choir performance
- Survivor story sharing exhibition
3. Theatre performance
The third activity was a short play performed by a mother and daughter (characters), which showcased the internal biases and the tendency to blame an entire community due to the actions of members from that community involved in the terror attack.
The narrative presented a relatable scenario within a household grappling with grief after losing a father and husband due to terrorism. Through the performance, the young daughter supported her widowed mother in navigating feelings of hate, guiding her towards love and togetherness.
They accomplished this by sharing traditional meals and inviting neighbors from other communities into their home, fostering connections and understanding. This play effectively highlighted the importance of addressing mental health and showed that seeking help during such challenging times is neither absurd nor wrong.
By portraying this journey of healing and unity, the play encouraged the audience to reflect on their own biases and the potential for reconciliation, emphasizing the power of empathy and community support in overcoming trauma. The objective of the play, was to promote peace through theater and art. By using story-telling as a medium, the play illustrated how personal narratives can challenge stereotypes and encourage dialogue.
SLRM invited Director Rajitha Hettiarachchi along with his troupe of Actors Pemanthi Fernando and Amandhi Kulathilake to create a theatre performance based on the effects of violent extremism and coping with grief (2 key areas highlighted in the theme of this memorial).
Rajitha is a storyteller and lawyer who writes and directs stories for the stage and screen. His work includes ‘Grease Yaka Returns’ which won Best Play, Director, Script and several other awards at the State Drama Festival 2019 and he represented Sri Lanka at India’s Bharat Rang Mahotsav 2020, Picket Republic, and Dracula!
- Documentary screening [The Survivors Speak & The Other Side]
- Expert discussion followed by Q&A
- Theatre Performance on Violent Extremism & Grief
- Choir performance
- Survivor story sharing exhibition
4. Choir performance
The choir performance was a beautiful culmination of the themes of unity and resilience, featuring participants from various age groups who sang in Sinhala, Tamil, and English. This multilingual approach not only showcased the diversity of the community but also served to reinforce the message of togetherness.
Beginning the performance with the national anthem sung in both Sinhala and Tamil was a powerful statement, symbolizing solidarity among different ethnic groups. The chosen songs by The Choral Spectrum, focused on peace, resilience, love, and empathy, resonated deeply with the audience.
Through music and language, the choir created an atmosphere where attendees felt a sense of shared identity and purpose, breaking down barriers and fostering a connection that transcended divisions. This performance not only entertained but also inspired reflection on the importance of harmony and collaboration in the face of adversity.
This showed how the arts can bring people together, especially in challenging times, creating a collective experience that emphasizes hope and healing. This program allowed us to use the healing powers of Music to share our stories of hope for a better Sri Lanka.
The Choral Spectrum from The Halpe Andree School of Music, under the leadership and direction of Mrs. Haasinee Halpe Andree, the Founder & Director, the Choral Spectrum has a repertoire of performing on many stages.
The Halpe Andree School of Music won the exemplary award for Choir and several other awards at the recently concluded British Lanka Performing Arts Music Festival. Since the Easter Sunday attacks of 21st April 2019, the Halpe Andree School of Music regularly tries to promote peace.
The school was one of the earliest to have a joint Muslim-Catholic concert and it was a resounding success. They also staged another concert titled ‘PEACE – Samātāṉam – සාමය’ in 2022 to support victims of the Easter Sunday attack.
The choir performed ‘Krunk’ (for violin and piano) by Komitas, ‘Me Ape’ – a special arrangement for the Halpe Andree School of Music by Ian Francis, ‘There is Peace’, by Jim Populis.
- Documentary screening [The Survivors Speak & The Other Side]
- Expert discussion followed by Q&A
- Theatre Performance on Violent Extremism & Grief
- Choir performance
- Survivor story sharing art exhibition
5. Art exhibition
The final event, the art gallery walkthrough, was a poignant conclusion to the series of activities, showcasing a variety of artworks that reflected the thoughts and emotions of survivors, children, and the general public.
Through direct interviews with all kinds of survivors of the attack, the EASP team has in its possession impactful art work which was used to set up an art gallery at the Memorial.
The theme of this exhibition once again followed the theme of this memorial: (1) Trauma, grief and loss, (2) Inter-faith and inter-ethnic relations, and (3) Understanding reconciliation and memorialization.
Artists ranged from the works of professionals we directly work with like Mariam Aamilah and Yusri Ghouse, as well as the art works of kids post the attack, and also included some art works by renowned artists including Vicky Shahjehan, Godwin Constantine, Hajara Zaheed, and Akila Weerasinghe.
The pieces on display captured a spectrum of feelings, including grief, hope, resilience, and a deep love for the community. Artworks depicting the loss of lives in the Easter attack served as a stark reminder of the tragedy, while pieces illustrating the heartache experienced by the community and the pervasive blame they faced highlighted the complexities of healing in the aftermath of such events.
Many of these bold and evocative pieces moved the audience, prompting them to confront the harsh realities of people’s feelings and experiences. This exhibition not only celebrated artistic expression but also provided a crucial platform for dialogue about the impact of violence and the importance of collective healing. By engaging with these artworks, attendees were invited to reflect on their own perspectives and consider the broader implications for community support and accountability. The art gallery effectively reinforced the themes of resilience and unity, reminding everyone of the power of creative expression in processing trauma and fostering empathy within society.
Challenges and Lessons Learned
Reflecting on the project, it’s clear that there were both challenges encountered and valuable lessons learned. Here’s a summary:
1. Documentary Length: The second documentary from The Other Side was significantly longer than the first short film. This unbalanced portrayal of both sides of the survivors might have affected audience engagement. Future projects will prioritize brevity and clarity.
2. Venue Size: The venue was not large enough to accommodate the audience comfortably, leading to over-crowding and congestion. A larger space would have facilitated smoother movement and allowed for a greater number of attendees. Selecting an appropriately sized venue is crucial for accommodating the audience and ensuring a more positive experience for all.
3. Panel discussion expertise: The panel discussion lacked appropriate consideration in panelist selection. Considering the significance of the terror attacks, the organizers should have focused more attention in including legal experts who have worked on the ground in this space. The sensitivity and fear among even the experts out there to publicly engage on this topic was also a reason for the organizers’ inability to form a rich set of expert panelists. This would have provided a more comprehensive understanding of the impact.
4. Art Gallery Diversity: The art gallery walkthrough would have benefited from a wider variety of artistic expressions, such as poetry, open mics, and sculptures, to reflect the full spectrum of emotions and experiences within the community. Including various forms of artistic expression can enhance the emotional impact of an event and offer multiple entry points for audience connection. However, due to the packed program and the limited time length, this could not be achieved.
5. Stage Spacing: The stage setup could be improved to accommodate more actors and props, enhancing the overall production quality and allowing for more dynamic performances. Thoughtful staging and choreography can elevate performances, allowing for more creativity and a better overall experience for both performers and audiences. Due to point #2 (constriction of the venue), the stage area was also limited.
6. Choral Participants: Limiting the number of choir participants might have helped reduce overcrowding on stage and allowed each performer to shine more individually. In future, balancing participation numbers in performances will improve the quality of the presentation.
7. Event Elements: Having too many elements within the event led to time constraints, which may have detracted from the overall experience. Focusing on fewer, well-executed components might lead to a more impactful event.
Testimonials from the attendees
It is with great pleasure and a deep sense of gratitude I whole heartedly thank the SLRM Team for inviting me to attend an extra ordinary event called ‘In Their Memory’.
It was a very educative, interesting and thought-provoking event that touched the hearts and inner minds of all those who attended the event.
To be very honest, there were several times when tears came to my eyes during the event.
I strongly recommend to continue such events targeting the younger generation.
Major General Dharshana Hettiarrachchi
Commissioner General of Rehabilitation
Firstly, I commend the decision to hold this event outside of April. It shows the importance of remembering the incident while also facilitating meaningful discussions about it.
I appreciated the agenda and the organization of the event; it was very concise and well-structured.
The panel discussion was particularly impactful, providing valuable insights into the current situation and the aftermath of 2019. Thanks again for the invitation. I look forward to your future events, so please keep me updated. Best regards,
Ashfaque Mohomed
Film Maker
An extremely inspiring afternoon. The two films were very powerful and moving. The play was well scripted and superbly acted. The panel discussion was interesting, though could have been more focused. Didn’t catch the artwork. The event could have been 30 minutes shorter. Hope you will continue along these lines.
Dr. Mario Gomez
Executive Director
International Centre for Ethnic Studies ICES
I wanted to express my appreciation for the ‘In Their Memory’ exhibition. It was exceptionally well organized, and I could feel the thoughtful planning that went into every aspect of the event. The inclusive nature of the gathering allowed for voices from all walks of life to be represented, creating a truly communal experience.
I also commend you for the culturally sensitive approach taken throughout the exhibition. It was clear that great care was taken to honor the memories of the victims and survivors without offending anyone. This thoughtful consideration made the event all the more impactful.
Wishing you all the best for your future events. I believe they will continue to foster understanding and healing in our community.
Aneesa Firthouse
President IWARE
Kattankudy
It was a great event yesterday. One of the best organised recent events I have seen done by authentic civil society.
Indika Perera
Attorney At Law
It was an honour to be part of this event. It was a truly significant initiative, and events like these are vital for fostering pluralism, unity and promoting reconciliation across communities. Well done in having a wonderful event today!
Asif Fuard
Defense Analyst and Lecturer at KDU
Videos of the Memorial
Features in the Media
Next Steps & Goals
We look forward to the future as we close this Memorial Exhibition Project chapter.
In the short term, we envision creating a mobile memorial to bring the memories and stories of the victims and the spirit of peacebuilding to every Sri Lankan, near and far. We strongly believe that making remembrance more accessible and inclusive invites new perspectives while fostering a sense of national unity. By bringing our memorial experience to our local communities, we hope to converge our histories and experiences and bridge geographical and cultural divides, as it is only through collective dialogue and awareness that we can create a healthier and stronger nation for tomorrow.
In the long term, we envision a permanent memorial where the victims’ and survivors’ memories and stories will be etched in stone. Providing a permanent space for memorialisation will serve as a constant reminder of our resilience and shared commitment to peace, hope and education. Most importantly, we want it to be a living symbol for the victims, survivors, all those affected directly or indirectly, and future generations. Creating a permanent and fixed memorial in Sri Lanka will ensure that this tragedy is never forgotten and that the legacy of all victims inspires change for generations to come.
This one day memorial was executed by the volunteers at SLRM and supported by Internews and held on the 19th of October, 2024.
