|
 |
|
|
|
August 11, 2008 - 12:07:50 PM
OPEN LETTER TO UNESCO (II) Proposed 'heritage trail' by Commissioner Laveist
Read more »
|
|
|
|
|
 |
Posted: August 14, 2008 - 05:40:41 PM
ASSESSING THE SOCIAL IMPACT OF THE HAITIAN DIASPORA ON ST. MARTIN...A NECESSARY EXERCISE
OPEN LETTER
To dr. Edwin CARRINGTON
General-secretary of the CARICOM-states
Dear dr. CARRINGTON,
While in principle, we do not necessarily oppose the principle of Caribbean integration, we are very concerned to say the least of certain aspects of this process.
Without going into details here, suffices to share with you the enormous social-, cultural and demographical impact the immigration of nationals from countries is having, especially on our island and from what we understand, increasingly also on other smaller islands in the region as well.
In particular, we are very concerned, to say the least, about the ‘invasion’ of immigrants coming from Haiti, in particular, because of their un-controlled and explosive birth-rate and pressure on of social institutions- and services, at the expense of the local native population and other residents as well.
This ‘out of control’ development clearly constitutes a realistic potential for ‘genocide by substitution’, a threat we are not willing to succumb to as natives of this island.
We believe that the time is long overdue, that a very realistic and open discussion on this matter takes place on all levels of government and within NGO’s in the region, if the process of Caribbean integration is to be supported and consequently is to survive.
During our last installment on Wednesday, August 13, of our radio-program NATIONtalk, which is aired live every Wednesday from 8 to 10 p.m., we took the initiative for this very necessary discussion.
At present we hard working very hard to post this installment on our website (www.stmartinnation.org), which will allow you to listen for yourself as well.
It should be clear, that not addressing this extremely worrisome situation, will lead to unnecessary xenophobia and resentment of certain groups of immigrants, which eventually has the potential to undermine confidence, enthusiasm in, and cooperation the very concept of Caribbean integration.
We look forward to your response and of having you as guest of our program in due time.
With respect,
Drs. Leopold JAMES, President SNBF/ Association L’ Esprit de Concordia
Copies to relevant authorities.
|
|
