WHEREAS:

Haiti's ongoing insecurity and political instability are rooted in a long history of economic and social inequalities; and

WHEREAS:

The United States under the Bush administration turned its back on our commitments to Haiti; and

WHEREAS:

There are divergent reports on the events leading up to the departure from office by President Aristide. Ordinary Haitians are still living in fear and insecurity, while armed gangs remain in de facto control of much of the country; and

WHEREAS:

H.R. 3919 would create a commission to "examine and evaluate the role of the United States Government in the February 2004 coup d'etat in the Republic of Haiti."

THEREFORE BE IT RESOLVED:

That AFSCME supports H.R. 3919; and

BE IT FURTHER RESOLVED:

The most urgent task for the international community is to help restore law and order and address the immediate political and humanitarian crisis. Urgently needed humanitarian aid must be provided to a starving population; and

BE IT FINALLY RESOLVED:

That AFSCME will advocate for a long-term commitment from the United States and the international community to strengthen Haiti. Conditions must be created that will allow the re-establishment of functioning democracy.

SUBMITTED BY:

Brenda Stokely, President and Delegate
AFSCME Council 1707
New York

The Resolutions Committee