I do not know of a single person who is unaware or complacent about the crisis that has only begun to unfold in Haiti. It is a disaster that has elicited our deepest sympathies and forced us to contemplate the fragility of life.
Witnessing the total destruction of lives already stricken with poverty and strife inspired Americans to donate millions of dollars to Haiti relief funds. And although the despair of the survivors is something that few of us can even begin to fathom, the generosity of our nation’s citizens has provided a glimmer of hope.
As we reached into our pockets, we enabled, albeit slowly, food, water and medicine to arrive to suffering men, women and children. Our generosity will continue for some time, as the destruction is seemingly endless. But what happens when our Haitian counterparts are no longer in the spotlight?
Surely the glimmer we once helped to provide will fade. The cameras will cease filming, journalists will cease reporting and we will cease to maintain interest in the daily struggle to rebuild the lives of millions of Haitian citizens.
We will continue about our business, forgetting the immense devastation for which we once felt deep sorrow. It is not a question of if, but when — as we all know, at some point our collective conscience will decide that it is acceptable for us to move on.
But let us not forget that our Haitian friends cannot move on — not even when their homes are rebuilt, their broken bones and fresh wounds healed and their loved ones uncovered from the rubble.
Beyond construction and medical care, the people need to reestablish an economy. According to a recent Business Week article, it could take decades for Haiti to rebuild completely — and billions of dollars. Moreover, according to Reuters, the nation must restore rainforests and become more cognizant of natural resource utilization in order to secure jeopardized sources of food and water.
It goes without saying that they cannot accomplish these tasks alone — and they should not have to. Much like a friend in need, they are fellow humans in need and we must support and empower them. Once the shocking and saddening images are replaced with stories of our political scandals and battles, we must continue to help them in whatever ways our respective capacities will allow.
Fellow ASU students: Five years from now, do not forget about the time you sent a $10 text to help save the lives of millions of men, women and children. Recall your generosity and remember that they still need your help.
Reach Becky at rrubens1@asu.edu
