I've been in Haiti now for four days, absorbing all the sights, smells and personality of that which is Haiti. Upon arrival, I got a quick tour of town, including many of the sights you've already seen in the media - the crumbling palace , tent camps, and steep hills with flattened homes. Others have done a better job than I could of covering these images.
This is the Haiti I see. The day after I arrived we took a trip out to MCC's reforestation project in Desarmes. I am flooded with memories of my childhood in the Congo. Haiti has a unique history, being the only country where slaves successfully overthrew their colonial masters, and became an independent nation in 1804. For this reason, it has kept a strong African flavour. For example, this can be seen by the place Voodooism holds in the lives of the people here, not only as a religion, but also as part of their cultural identity. On our trip to the country, there were many tall flags identifying the homes of priests.
There is ample evidence of hardship all around you. Yet life goes on. This is a bustling town as people scurry about buying and selling their wares. There is laughter and singing, too. I enjoyed seeing many families dressed in their Sunday best coming home from church throughout the city and countryside. These are some of my first impressions here in Haiti.
1 comment:
Hey Daniella! What an awesome and truly interesting opportunity for you. I really look forward to hearing all about your adventures and hope you have a safe and fulfilling journey!
Post a Comment