Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard - Press Release - Haiti – Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) along with 11 other Members of Congress traveled to Haiti to learn more about the humanitarian crisis and the threat to national security resulting from mounting food prices..

(May 16, 2008) Haiti – Congresswoman Lucille Roybal-Allard (CA-34) along with 11 other Members of Congress traveled to Haiti to learn more about the humanitarian crisis and the threat to national security resulting from mounting food prices.

The CODEL was briefed by U.S. Ambassador Janet A. Sanderson and USAID principals on their plight for food and security assistance. Ambassador Sanderson pointed to the political fragility of Haiti, following food riots and the Haitian Parliament’s recent rejection of President Preval’s nominee to fill the Prime Minister vacancy. Without an acting Prime Minister, Haiti cannot institute new programs to mediate the crisis.

Members of the CODEL attended a private meeting with President Rene’ Preval at the National Palace. During this closed door dialogue, the discussion centered around the humanitarian and food crisis that is destabilizing the nation of Haiti. President Preval praised Members of the Congressional Black Caucus for including HOPE II, which will bring 50,000 jobs to Haiti, in the recently passed Farm Bill. President Preval asked us to continue to appeal to President Bush to grant Temporary Protective Status and offer debt forgiveness. President Preval passionately pleaded with the delegation to partner with him to address the drug crisis in Haiti. Members of the CODEL and President Preval solidified our partnership to stabilize and strengthen Haiti.

Members of the CODEL feel it is critical for the United States government to play a more active and productive role in addressing the humanitarian and food crisis that is destabilizing the nation of Haiti. The United States has a moral obligation to work with our regional allies to address the widespread poverty and despair that has engulfed and impeded the economic development of this country.

The trip was led by Congresswoman Black Caucus Chairwoman Carolyn Kilpatrick and First Vice Chairwoman Barbara Lee. Other members who participated were: Delegate Eleanor Holmes Norton (DC); Congresswoman Sheila Jackson Lee (TX); Congressman Gregory Meeks (NY); Congresswoman Diane Watson (CA); Congressman Al Green (TX); Congresswoman Yvette Clarke (NY); Congressman Keith Ellison (MN); Congressman Hank Johnson (GA); and Congressman Andre Carson (IN).