Introduction
Welcome to "Juan de Dios en la Tierra," where we explore the stories and challenges of different communities. In this article, I share a personal and eye-opening experience visiting a very poor Haitian family in Las Lagunas Arriba, Las Placetas, Santiago province. This journey is part of my ongoing documentary series, aimed at fostering understanding and dialogue on sensitive issues like immigration between the Dominican Republic and Haiti.
The Context
As a Dominican myself, born and raised in this beautiful country, I understand the deep concerns many Dominicans have regarding the massive immigration from Haiti. These concerns often revolve around fears of losing national sovereignty and cultural differences. It's essential to acknowledge these fears while maintaining our humanity and compassion towards those in desperate situations.
Meeting Clonney and Her Family
During my visit, I met Clonney, a young girl living with her mother, sister, brother-in-law, and several children in a tin-roofed house without a proper floor. Their living conditions are harsh, with an uneven dirt floor due to running water. Despite these challenges, the family remains resilient.
This encounter highlighted the severe poverty and lack of resources that many Haitian families face, pushing them to migrate to the Dominican Republic in search of a better life. Their struggles are not rooted in malice but in survival.
Addressing the Controversial Topic of Immigration
Immigration between the Dominican Republic and Haiti is a contentious issue. Many Dominicans are worried about the cultural differences and the strain on limited resources caused by mass immigration. Some may even harbor feelings of racial animosity, often stemming from ignorance or a lack of education.
In my video, I strive to present a balanced view. I firmly believe that every nation has the right to manage its borders and immigration policies according to the will of its people. However, this should not come at the cost of our shared humanity. As Christians and as human beings, we are called to show compassion and understanding, even in the face of difficult circumstances.
The Role of Political Leadership and the International Community
The root of the immigration issue lies in the lack of effective political leadership in both Haiti and the Dominican Republic. Furthermore, the United Nations and other international bodies have a significant role to play in stabilizing Haiti's economy and governance. The burden of addressing Haiti's problems should not fall solely on the Dominican Republic simply because of geographical proximity.
Misconceptions and Historical Context
During the visit, I asked Clonney and her family about the common belief in Haiti that parts of the Dominican Republic belong to Haiti. This misinformation, taught in some schools, can create resentment among Haitians living in the Dominican Republic. It's crucial to correct these misconceptions and promote an accurate understanding of history.
Haiti's invasion of the Dominican Republic in 1822 and the subsequent Dominican independence in 1844 are pivotal historical events that need to be understood in context. The invasion was driven by Haiti's need to pay off a massive debt imposed by France, not a legitimate claim to Dominican territory.
The Struggle for Medical Care
A significant part of the video documents our attempt to help Clonney with her severe dental issues. Due to the legal risks associated with transporting undocumented Haitians, we faced challenges in getting her the necessary medical care. Eventually, through a dental event organized by several foundations, we were able to provide her with some relief.
Conclusion
This visit to Clonney's family serves as a poignant reminder of the human stories behind immigration statistics. It's easy to get caught up in debates and forget the individuals affected by these policies. As we continue to discuss and address immigration issues, let's remember to do so with empathy and a commitment to finding humane solutions.
If you want to support families like Clonney's or learn more about our work, please contact us via email or via our website. Together, we can make a significant difference in the lives of those in need.
Thank you for being a part of this journey. May God bless you all.
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