Notes from Haiti #2

Today we visited two sites that speak to the power of the work of Fonkoze. One was a gathering of 20 women who were part of a group that were receiving micro loans for their businesses. The other was a literacy class that catered to adults. Today Emma and I traveled to some of the remotest places in Haiti: no electricity and very limited plumbing. The people we visited with are the forgotten even within Haiti. As we observed the gatherings what was clear was they were receiving something more than basic business skill or the ability to read. They were gaining a sense of self on an entirely new level.

Their businesses range from supplying fish to restaurants to selling the bananas that they grow on their land. Fonkoze helps to create the groups and has a representative meet with them, train them in managing a bank account and the importance of saving money. Once they have mastered the basics they are given a loan of about 60 dollars. As they show the ability to manage their money they can receive other loans. They begin each section with a prayer and sing songs of empowerment in Creole with lyrics such as: "We will not stop, We will not give up until we women are victorious." We had a chance to ask them questions and Emma asked how this business group had effected them as women. They spoke of the confidence they felt and a new sense of self esteem that they had attained. It was so very touching and inspiring. As we prepared to leave I offered to teach them a song. They were enthusiastic in their desire to learn it. There in this remote place with people who experience a level of poverty that is unimaginable I taught them Shalom Haverim. As we left they were still singing the words: Lihitraot, Shalom, Shalom. It was a most powerful moment.

In the afternoon we traveled to an even more remote place where we had to cross 5 small rivers in our pick up truck. There we witnessed a class for about 20 adults who ranged in age from 20 to 80. All were engaged in learning to read. Again they said a prayer and they sang inspirational songs. Watching them learn the basics of reading was such a powerful moment. It was clear how much the opportunity meant to them. It should be noted that the site that we visited was supported by the Clinton Foundation which makes it possible for 30 such classes to take place. Our Fonkoze representative explained that the Clinton Foundation was interested in reaching out to the people in the most remote places. They certainly achieved their goal.

The Jewish people have placed a high value on literacy for a long time. How many of our relatives were helped by the Hebrew Free Loan Society? What we witnessed today is not new or particularly innovate. But it works because it is well organized, and the focus is on creating a sense of community. Today Emma and I were witness to the gift of human dignity that comes with empowerment. Lihitraot: until we see them again!