Words by Olympia Ekine
Along with disturbing images that reflect a nation’s obsessive fascination with catastrophe, many have been prompted to offer gestures of fiscal aid to a distraught Haiti. It has been shown many times that we are more inclined to look at a spectacle rather than involve ourselves in it.
Already accepted as trustworthy and reputable, the usual line up of “mogul nonprofits” such as Red Cross and United Way crowd the forefront. ”Relief” organizations have been known to serve as a front for cultural imperialism, social influence, and manipulation. It seems this time however, world powers make considerably less abashed efforts in international control.
The island has been flooded with more troops than actual aid. These days, Haitian citizens see more firearms than food. One wonders the significance of this and how much sense it makes.
Further, President Obama’s order for immediate aid to Haiti demonstrates the USA’s ironic tendency to “help” with the same hand it uses to crush. Do a bit of research into how US authorities deal with illegal Haitian immigrants upon and following arrival as opposed to immigrants of other descent, as well as US- Haitian policy.
Amidst an overabundance of deception and illusion, there are genuine, wholehearted efforts to remedy the nation’s suffering. Wyclef Jean’s Yele organization has raised millions in the wake of the disaster and has firmly established its commitment to the country.
Considering this, readers should pay close attention to subtle signs behind news stories. Do not take anyone’s word for anything, especially where money and power are concerned. When we begin to think critically and look into things for ourselves, we begin to discover how the world works and what the consequences these discoveries pose on our destinies. Never forget to take a moment to reflect.
