NAACP Issues Urgent Appeal for Support for Haiti

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

March 26, 2024

Contact: Alicia Mercedes, amercedes@naacpnet.org 

WASHINGTON —  The NAACP and the NAACP Florida State Conference issued the following statement in response to the escalating levels of violence, killings, and crisis in Haiti, demanding immediate attention and action from the Biden Administration and the international community.

NAACP President and CEO, Derrick Johnsonshared the following statement:

"The confluence of political instability, economic hardship, and social unrest has plunged Haiti into a state of turmoil, exacerbating the suffering and vulnerability of its people."

The NAACP stands in solidarity in calling for a significant escalation of support from the United States government and the international community to address the deepening crisis in Haiti. We cannot turn a blind eye to the plight of our brothers and sisters in Haiti.

"The situation in Haiti demands immediate and robust intervention,"said NAACP Chairman of the Board of Directors, Leon W. Russell. "The humanitarian emergency unfolding in the country necessitates a coordinated and substantial response from the global community."

As advocates for justice and equality, we remind the Biden Administration of Haiti's pivotal role in shaping the Western Hemisphere's history. Haiti's independence has contributed significantly to America's identity and history. There exists a moral imperative for the United States to provide substantial support to Haiti during this critical period.

Through foreign aid, support, and equitable policies, we can help rebuild Haiti's infrastructure, improve healthcare, ensure access to clean water and education, and empower its people to thrive.

The NAACP calls upon the Biden Administration to extend Temporary Protective Status to any citizen of Haiti currently residing in the United States who fears that returning to the Island Nation may likely put them or their family in potential danger. We urge the international community, aid organizations, and individuals to join us in solidarity, contributing resources and aid to alleviate the profound challenges faced by the people of Haiti. Together, we can make a meaningful impact and help pave the way for a brighter and sustainable future for Haiti and its resilient people.

### 

About NAACP

The NAACP advocates, agitates, and litigates for the civil rights due to Black America. Our legacy is built on the foundation of grassroots activism by the biggest civil rights pioneers of the 20th century and is sustained by 21st century activists. From classrooms and courtrooms to city halls and Congress, our network of members across the country works to secure the social and political power that will end race-based discrimination. That work is rooted in racial equity, civic engagement, and supportive policies and institutions for all marginalized people. We are committed to a world without racism where Black people enjoy equitable opportunities in thriving communities.

NOTE: The Legal Defense Fund – also referred to as the NAACP-LDF - was founded in 1940 as a part of the NAACP, but now operates as a completely separate entity.