Cultural Anthropologist, Independent Researcher, Solidarity Activist, Convener. Integrative Nutrition Coach.
Community members and community-based groups are always the first and last responders in times of humanitarian crisis. External solidarity in these moments should promote unity and social cohesion. It is crucial to link humanitarian response to development aid and peacebuilding that not only responds to the crisis, but does so with a view on the long-term strengthening of community systems, and not just a return to the status quo in the recovery process. This must always be led by the community, with support that is based in solidarity.
The Critical Situation on La Gonave: An Urgent Call for Solidarity Due to escalating gang violence in C?te des Arcadins, numerous families from Arcahaie (Akayè), an area on Haiti’s western coast, have fled to the island of La Gonave seeking a safe haven. Many of these people, including women and children, are currently without adequate shelter, food, or water. Over the past five days, 3 to 4 boats filled with people have arrived daily, putting immense pressure on local communities. When the first boats arrived, communities on La Gonave welcomed them with water, coffee, bread, and temporary shelter. Now, according to Mayor Ernso Louissaint of Anse à Galets, the number has risen to over 7,000, with more boats arriving all over the island every day. ?Children, pregnant women, and elders are currently sleeping under the open sky without shelter, food, or water. This dire situation demands urgent intervention. Mayor Louissaint has already led three emergency meetings with the police, Civil Protection, SEMANAH (Maritime and Navigation Service of Haiti), NGOs, and community-based organizations. Rasin is supporting local authorities as they assess the needs of those seeking safety and put together a plan to address them. Rasin Devlopman stands in solidarity with the people of La Gonave, Mayor Louissaint, and those seeking refuge. Our strength lies in unity, and we believe in the power of konbit–Haitian-led mutual solidarity and collective action. Community members and community-based groups are always the first responders to crises; we must ensure that actions to address this crisis do not undermine or compromise the natural solidarity of the community or create long-term dependency on foreign resources.? We will continue sharing regular updates as the situation progresses. If you wish to support the actions we are taking in conjunction with other groups and local authorities, you can do so at https://lnkd.in/eVZnj7C2. Sincerely, Louino Robillard Program Director, Rasin Devlopman
Financial Manager | Sustainability Enthusiast
3 周Well said, I've always been curious about the general support received by community based groups. Wondering why International Organizations don't support them directly instead of trying to be pointlessly at the forefront of every aid.