Diaspora and Development

Last night, I attended a meeting on how Haitian Diaspora could become engaged in Haiti's future. This is a major reason why we formed Haiti Innovation, in order to involve the Diaspora and other concerned individuals in Haiti's development.

In Washington, DC, where HII is based, Salvadorans are a major constituency. They are organized and can vote in their national elections. They can run in their elections if they so desire. One of Haiti's best, and yet sadly untapped, resources is the Haitian Diaspora. Sure they send remittances, but their skills and expertise are not being used as much as is needed in Haiti.

The meeting was mainly about the right of Haitians with dual citizenship to run for President in Haiti. This is a contentious issue. However, members of the Haitian Diaspora do not need to be President to make a difference. Haiti is in need of real leadership and this can be done in many different ways. Start a foundation, found a school, monitor the interim government and keep it as accountable as possible, or create opportunities for cultural change; the possibilities are endless.

In Haiti, members of the Diaspora (dyasp) are often viewed as not being fully Haitian. They are seen as not fully trustworthy, or as different. I’ve certainly seen some members of the Diaspora who fit this description, but many more who do not and want to contribute what they can to the country where they were born. Lakay se Lakay and Haiti will always be home.

At this moment, Haiti needs the help of all of its children. We hope to see, regardless of who wins the election, increased involvement of the Haitian Diaspora.

Bryan Schaaf