19971: Leiderman: checkered cloth but "no picnic" (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Stuart M Leiderman <leidermn@cisunix.unh.edu>


dear Readers:

others may already have sent the list John Kerry's statement on Haiti in
today's New York Times.  that portion is typical evasion -- totally
out of place in a climate of confusion, suspicion, ambivalence and
outrage.  Kerry said everything that Aristide and Haiti isn't, but not
precisely what American policy is (or was); thus, no information is
given, no education takes place and no action is taken...no voters are
persuaded.

it's really a mind-game for a Presidential candidate to allude to
"understandings in the region about the right of a democratic regime to
ask for help" without a) specifically saying the word "Haiti" and
b) telling exactly what those understandings are.  the most grievous
omission is any kind word for the refugees and others who are on the brink
of leaving.  Haitian refugees would be the "truth-before-reconciliation"
testimony needed to rock the walls of Congress.  Kerry being a senior
Senator, could easily arrange a week of hearings.  let fleeing Haitians
show him the way.

thanks,

Stuart Leiderman

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