This week, Representative Maria Salazar joined a bipartisan group of lawmakers in expressing urgent concerns about the worsening security situation in Haiti. The group, led by Congressman Rick McCormick, sent a letter to Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighting the severity of the crisis.
Recent reports reveal that gangs, including the Viv Ansanm coalition, have taken control of over 85% of Port-au-Prince and are expanding into previously stable regions. “Haiti is on the verge of collapse with violent gangs controlling the center of Port-au-Prince just blocks away from the National Palace,” stated Congresswoman Maria Salazar. She urged for decisive U.S. leadership to address this issue.
Representative Rich McCormick emphasized, “The United States has an important responsibility to act decisively to mitigate this humanitarian and security crisis in Haiti.” He called for enhanced protective measures for American citizens and humanitarian workers.
Representative Gregory Meeks expressed concern over potential long-term consequences if action is not taken: “Failure to address Haiti’s gang crisis risks a point of no return.” He praised Representative McCormick’s efforts in advocating for a clear strategy to restore order.
Representative Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick highlighted the human suffering caused by the ongoing crises: “Haiti continues to confront a dire political, security, and humanitarian crisis.” She stressed cracking down on violent gangs and curtailing illicit firearms as part of a long-term solution.
Concerns were also voiced by Representative Michael Lawler regarding threats faced by civilians and aid workers: “The humanitarian crisis in Haiti is heartbreaking and deeply concerning.” His district has one of the largest Haitian American populations per capita in the U.S., amplifying his call for swift action.
“The Haitian people are enduring a vicious cycle of horrific violence,” noted Representative Debbie Wasserman Schultz. She called for urgent support to restore stability and protect human rights while preventing American weapons from reaching criminal organizations.
Having firsthand experience from rescue missions last year, Representative Cory Mills described witnessing threats faced by Americans and locals due to gang activity: “The deteriorating security situation in Haiti is more urgent now than ever.”
Highlighting personal connections within her constituency, Representative Lois Frankel remarked on how deeply affected families are by events in Haiti: “With nearly half a million Haitian Americans living in Florida…the United States should act urgently.”
“The humanitarian crisis unfolding in Haiti is devastating,” said Representative Bill Keating. He advocated for coordinated efforts between U.S., Haitian authorities, and international partners like UN Multinational Security Support Mission against illicit arms flow.
Finally, addressing broader implications beyond regional instability was Representative Jonathan Jackson who referred to it as “a humanitarian catastrophe that demands urgent international response.” He linked current challenges back through historical context involving foreign exploitation post-2010 earthquake up until recent leadership voids following President Moïse’s assassination three years ago.
