Phenia Michel, who was born in Haiti, cries out about the absence of aid for the Haitian people. Hundreds gathered Saturday to call attention to the millions of Haitians still suffering in the wake of January's devastating earthquake. Photo by Ryan Chavis
Amid a sea of flags and hand-made signs, hundreds gathered Saturday to call for immediate help for the people of Haiti.
“Where is the money?” they chanted.
The Haiti Solidarity Network of the North East organized the rally in front of the Haitian Consulate at 271 Madison Ave. on Sept. 25. Participants wanted to put a spotlight on the lack of aid for the struggling residents in Haiti — many who still live in slum-like “tent cities” in the aftermath of the disastrous earthquake that shook the nation more than eight months ago.
“All the money they collected on behalf of Haiti, what happened to the money?” said Ener Ve, 42.
Organizers held the protest in front of the consulate in hopes that the delegates who work in the building would hear their pleas for change.
“Many are still homeless. They live with rats, and there is not enough food, “ said Judy Reilley, a representative of HSNNE. Reilley explained that sexual assault is also an issue for women and children in camps because of the lack of proper security.
Reilley spoke to protesters about poor sanitation throughout the area. The living conditions in Port au Prince continue to deteriorate as residents are forced to navigate through mud and feces as the result of heavy rainfall, she said.
“No child of God should have to live like this,” Reilley said.
Around 11 a.m., protesters and organizers marched to Dag Hammarskjold Plaza near the United Nations to continue their call for action.
“Since the earthquake, the mission has been budgeted for $380 million from July 1 to December 31 this year, and we know that most of that money goes to pay UN personnel,” said Rev. Gene Squeo, from HSNNE. “We’re here today to say that it’s not only the Haitian government that’s mired in inaction, but that the international community is complicit with the Haitian community.”
More than $11 billion has was made available for rebuilding after the disaster, yet the people affected by it are still left to live in an unsafe environment, Squeo said.
“Indifference cannot continue. Inaction cannot continue. The people are suffering,” he said.
Organizers placed emphasis on demanding accountability from various government organizations and officials. Amadi Amajou, of the December 12 Movement and Friday Haiti Relief Coalition, non-governmental organizations that represent Africans and their human rights, spoke about misuse of funds from various donors earmarked for the Haitians.
“The French, the United States, the western European nations — all are putting in billions of dollars that support their own NGOs — not the Haitian people,” Amajou said. “We need to understand that Haiti is a victim of international imperialism and has been for a long time.”
For one protester, the situation boils down to the importance of basic human rights.
“It is not fair,” said Phenia Michel, who is originally from Haiti. For most of the protest, Michel stood under the solitude of a large Haitian flag, often chanting to rally her fellow protesters.
“All of them are human beings, and we want them to be treated like human beings. That’s all we want,” Michel said.
Comments
Ryan,
I work with you mother and contribute to your Relay for Life. Mom is sharing your articles with us and you are outstanding.
I’ going to be in NY next week and will give you a call.
Congratulations and keep up the good work
Excellent article. So proud of you & your accomplishments! Keep up the good work & make us proud!
Ryan,
Great article. I hope you will follow up on the story. It’s sad to think that the money given to help these poor victims is mired in the UN rather than clearing up the mess in the streets and giving life back to those who so desperately need it.
I know your parents are extremely proud of you. Your hard work has paid off and is evident in the thoughtful, provocative article. It shows great insight and compassion.
I look forward to your next article.
Ryan,
I am extremely proud of you. The article was through and the comments of individuals made it effective. I always knew that you had so much potential and ability.
Yvonne Barnes Dial
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