17 January 2010

Ambassador Joseph’s Message to Fellow Haitians (English)

Podcast: Haiti’s ambassador to United States sends message on rebuilding

Following is the English translation of Haitian Ambassador Ray Joseph’s audio message to the people of Haiti, recorded in Creole on January 16, 2010.

Hello.

How are you all? I am Raymond Joseph, Ambassador of Haiti in Washington and I have a message for you.

We are going through a difficult period in our country’s history. But, you know what? It won’t last for too long because our government and the whole world are working together to bring us help. I have no doubt that more supplies will be reaching you if you are a little bit patient. And we will stand tall and once again we will be proud of ourselves.

Now, more than ever, Haiti needs you all; it needs you right at home. Listen, don’t rush on boats to leave the country. If you do that, we’ll all have even worse problems. Because, I’ll be honest with you: If you think you will reach the US and all the doors will be wide open to you, that’s not at all the case. And they will intercept you right on the water and send you back home where you came from.

My brothers and sisters, you all know the words that helped us become Independent. It’s “Strength in Unity.” And we have to use the same unity and the same solidarity right now so we can help Haiti get through this situation.

And I say to you, to you all, May God Bless Haiti.