The crisis continues in Haiti as Miami resident, Steeve Pierre, struggles to negotiate the release of his kidnapped cousin, Borgella Antoine. Facing a $500,000 ransom demand from the kidnappers, Pierre’s family is unable to afford the payment.
The violence in Haiti has left many Haitian Americans in Miami living in fear and uncertainty. Some family members have been forced to go into hiding as gangs wreak havoc in the country. This unrest is nothing new to the Haitian American community in Miami, which has been steadily growing since the 1970s and 1980s.
The assassination of President Jovenel Moïse in 2021 sparked widespread violence in Haiti, with gangs now controlling much of Port-au-Prince. Ariel Henry, the unelected prime minister, recently resigned and announced the creation of a transitional presidential council in an attempt to address the escalating violence.
Experts emphasize the need for inclusiveness in Haiti, as millions of people are suffering from food insecurity and famine. The Biden administration has pledged humanitarian aid for Haiti and allowed a limited number of Haitians into the U.S. under a humanitarian parole program.
In anticipation of a potential influx of Haitian migrants fleeing the violence, some Florida lawmakers are preparing for the arrival of refugees. Haitian Americans in Miami, such as Melissa Fils-Aime, are concerned for their loved ones back in Haiti who are directly impacted by the violence and instability.
The situation in Haiti remains dire, with no easy solutions in sight. As families like Pierre’s continue to grapple with the trauma of kidnapping and violence, the international community must come together to support the people of Haiti in their time of need.
