I live under a rock most of the time but word of the Haitian earthquake broke through my self imposed barrier. My heart is in pieces and if it can be so, continues to shatter. How can it be that the small island known for revolution can’t get a break?
In 1804 Haiti became the western hemisphere’s first Black Republic. A hard won prestige after having defeated Napoleon’s army, which, consequently encouraged the French to agree to the USA’s term in the Louisiana Purchase. Since its initial achievements however, the country has been plauged by poverty, bad weather and an even worse political scene. The tradition of revolution has not changed much and the violent exchange of power has replayed itself over and over. In addition an unstable political landscape, the country has suffered a negative social view. Namely being known for the evils of Voodoo and a hot bed of HIV/AIDS. So then the latest earthquake on January 12,2009, which erased any evidence of recovery from two previous devastating hurricanes, is both unexpected and just plain ole’ not fair!
Haiti needs help now. The death toll is being estimated in the hundreds of thousands. The devastation is just beginning but we can off-set much of the predicted calamity by donating generously. There are may ways to give; prayers, hope, money, clothing, food, and water. Please find a pretty comprehensive list of organizations willing and able to accept your donations here. Finally be careful when being solicited for donations. In recent history, catastrophes such as the dismal one which has impacted Haiti, often become a con man’s dream.
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I’ve been encouraging everyone I know to help Haiti. I’m talking to a few people about a planning a trip to the country to help.
Mocha Dad´s last blog ..The Mystery Reader