In the wake of Hurricane Matthew, we are once again reminded of the devastation that occurs when natural disasters happen locally and around the globe. Such events also call to the mind the disparaging differences between nations who have and those who have-not. These differences are seen in the attention the catastrophes receive and during the response in the aftermath.
The poorest country in the western hemisphere was in the direct eye of Matthew. As many as 1,000 died in the midst of the storm. Many more are dying in the after effects. Thousands are homeless and hungry. Much of the small island nation is still recovering from a massive earthquake more than six years ago when 300,000 were killed and over one million left homeless. Haiti continues to be devastated and the world seems to be watching.
Although it is natural to be focused on our fellow citizens, we must ask why the news agencies all but ignored Haiti in the super-hyped ratings-based reporting? Why does it appear that a Haitian life is worth less than an American life?
While it is true that the political unrest and lack of infrastructure in Haiti are among the many obstacles that hamper efforts to assist when needed, there is still much more that can be done. Just miles away from First World nations, cries of the poor must continue to be made known that persons are suffering and dying on the doorstep of wealth.
