A Call to Action: Assessing priorities and limitations of the Haitian Diaspora in the reconstruction of Haiti

In the aftermath of the January 12, 2010 earthquake, the Haitian Diaspora in the United States has the opportunity to be a significant player in the rebuilding of Haiti. Educated and skilled Diaspora leaders maintain a dual perspective of life in Haiti and the United States. Acting under a unified agenda, the Haitian Diaspora can provide an vital Haitian voice as the United States government makes policy decisions for the long-term reconstruction of Haiti. This study uses a survey (n=100) to 1. Aggregate development and health priorities in the rebuilding of Haiti 2. Identify perceived barriers to the Diaspora's influence and 3. Illuminate channels for influencing policy and development activity in Haiti. The survey targets Haitian-American college students, and educated Haitians living in the United States. Responses are aggregated into quantifiable data that Diaspora leaders can use to stimulate public dialogue and political engagement concerning Haiti's long-term reconstruction. This dialogue can influence the United States-based Haitian Diaspora to become an influential advocate for friends, family and neighbors still living in Haiti in order to ensure that rebuilding efforts persist in creating a more socially just Haiti.