Cultural Competence Committee Responds to Crisis in Haiti
The Alliance for Rights and Recovery’s (formerly NYAPRS) Cultural Competence Committee and Alliance staff stand in solidarity with the people living in Haiti and Haitians who live abroad as violence continues to destabilize their nation.
We have seen throughout the years how the political instability has brought violence and great sorrow to the Haitian people.
Haitian people are facing a dire humanitarian emergency, exacerbated by a series of natural disasters and a power vacuum left by the assassination of democratically elected President Jovenel Moïse in 2021.
After Moïse’s assassination, Ariel Henry assumed power as prime minister with support from several nations, including the U.S. However, Haiti failed to hold elections multiple times, leading to protests against Henry.
The dwindling number of elected officials has left Haiti vulnerable.
The violence escalated as armed groups, already active in Port-au-Prince, intensified violence. These militias, along with former police officers, have taken control of at least 80% of the capital, resulting in increased killings, kidnappings, and sexual assaults.
Various groups attempting humanitarian efforts continue to struggle to get aid to the people due to armed groups.
The Alliance is dedicated to improving services, public policies, and social conditions for people living with mental health, substance use and trauma-related challenges. We understand trauma. It is painful to witness what is taking place in Haiti and the effect it is having on our community members with ties to Haiti in the US and abroad.
The Cultural Competence Committee stands in support with the Haitian community while international efforts are underway to address the crisis. The situation remains complex and urgent action is needed to alleviate suffering and restore stability.
Our thoughts and prayers go out to the loved ones of Haitian people who have lost their lives in this warfare, and we stand in solidarity for peace and democracy for Haiti.