America Owes a Historical Debt to Haiti

Lydia Polgreen presents a compelling narrative on Haiti's protracted struggle for self-determination, democracy, and dignity, interwoven with the nation's historical context and recent crises. Through an Appeal to Emotion, she vividly portrays the dire situation following the assassination of President Jovenel Moise, evoking empathy and concern for Haiti's future. Biased Language is used to describe the U.S.'s historical involvement in Haiti, characterizing it as meddling and interference, which frames the narrative in a way that may oversimplify the complexities of international relations and Haitian autonomy. The narrative also presents a False Dilemma by suggesting the only paths forward are either continued external influence or a complete hands-off approach, overlooking the potential for nuanced, collaborative efforts that respect Haitian sovereignty while providing necessary support. Polgreen's call for the U.S. to act as a "midwife" to Haiti's self-determined future encapsulates her vision for a respectful partnership. Her emphasis on Haitian-led initiatives for democracy and her hopeful outlook on the possibility of a "new and different future for Haiti" reflect a deep understanding of the country's resilience and the importance of external actors recognizing and correcting past mistakes. This perspective underscores the significance of solidarity, historical accountability, and the potential for positive change through collective and informed action.