Congresswoman Cherfilus-McCormick Statement on the United States Role in Response to the Ongoing Crisis in Haiti

WASHINGTON, D.C. - “For over a week, the international community has watched the situation in Haiti deteriorate. Gangs have taken over the country and threatened to start a civil war, leaving Haitians confined to their homes without access to food and water. Kidnapping and sexual violence is a common occurrence for those who venture outside their homes. In short, gang violence has caused life in Haiti to be unbearable.

Haiti is in our backyard. Its insecurity is a direct threat to America’s security. I thank Secretary Blinken for engaging with the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in to reach a Haitian-led solution and his commitment of an additional $133 million towards security and humanitarian assistance. Congress must act immediately to release the first round of funding.

The Biden-Harris administration backed the establishment of a Multinational Security Support (MSS) mission, under Kenya's leadership, to pave the way for Haitian self-determination and safety. U.S. funding for this mission is critical. Since October, Republicans in Congress have blocked funding for the MSS. They must lift the hold on the $40 million needed to deploy the security support mission. Every minute the Republicans refuse to provide the promised funds, the Haitian people suffer.

This is the same nation that led the first black successful revolt against oppression in the Americas, serving as a beacon of light for freedom and liberty. We have an obligation to them today to support them in their efforts towards ensuring peace, democracy, stability, and prosperity.

Haiti and CARICOM have acted. It is past time for the United States to step up and allow the MSS to deploy. It is time to come together and carry out our responsibility as the leader of the free world. Helping Haiti’s stability enhances America’s national security.

I look forward to working with our Republican colleagues in releasing this critical funding to Haiti and enhancing America’s national security.”

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