22470: HAITIAN ACTIVIST AND LEADER, MARX VILAIRE ARISTIDE (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: Fabina Sainno <fabinas@hotmail.com>

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE FROM NATACHA P . LASSEGUE
June 22, 2004
HAITIAN ACTIVIST AND LEADER, MARX VILAIRE ARISTIDE, PASSED AWAY ON JUNE 20,
2004
Haitian activist and leader, Marx Vilaire Aristide, passed away on June 20,
2004, at the prime of his life. Hisdeath was the result of a tragic car
accident in Washington, D.C. Marx Vilaire Aristide, "No relation to
President Jean-Bertrand Aristide," as he would say, was born the second of
three children in Gonaïves, Haiti, onMarch 26, 1967. He migrated to
Brooklyn, New York during his teenage years. He later obtained a Bachelor’s
degree from the State University of New York at Stony Brook, and a Master’s
in Economics from Howard University. Marx was a Research Economist with a
wide array of experiences on issues pertaining to Latin America, West
Africa, the Caribbean, and Haiti. Marx is survived by his daughter, parents,
brother, sister,fiancée, as well as many other loving family members and
friends.
If his life could be summed up, one might say that Marx dedicated his life
to Haiti and its people. Using his extensive knowledge of Haiti and the
Haitian peasantry, he worked for two years in the Haitian countryside
totrain community-based organizations that were engaged in groundbreaking
microfinance initiatives. Marx wrote and lectured frequently on Haiti’s
economy and quest for democracy on venues such as ABC’s Nightline,
Washington DC’s WUSA TV9, PBS’ McNeil-Lehrer "By the People", Pacifica
Radio, and National Public Radio. Marx was also an accomplished author,
having published critically acclaimed articles, such as "Haiti’s Popular
Resistance" written with Laurie Richardson. Marx’s many professional
achievements included serving as co-founder of Kalfou Kréyòl, co-director of
the Quixote Center, Editor-in-Chief of Roots magazine,Executive Director of
the Haitian-American Skill Share Foundation, co-Executive Director of
Fondation Sémans, and former Executive Director of the Washington Off! ice
on Haiti. Along with Danny Glover and Ron Daniels, Marx was instrumental in
organizing a cruise to commemorate the bicentennial of Haiti’s independence,
which is scheduled for August 2004. That monumental endeavor, which has
forged alliances between people of Haitian descent and those throughout the
African diaspora, is yet another example of Marx’slife dedication to the
empowerment of people of African descent.
Marx’s passion for his Ayiti Chérie (Beloved Haiti) was only matched by his
love for his friends and family. Beyond his numerous professional
accomplishments, Marx’s impact can be felt in each of those he left behind.
He is remembered not only for his keen intellect and magnetic charisma, but
also for his ability to see value in everyone. A devoted father, he showered
his daughter with love and attention. A loving fiancé, his acts ofkindness
and affirmation still occupy the space he left behind. He gave respect and
dignity to every human being—regardless of class, financial status or ethnic
origin. He celebrated our lives, and with infectious
laughter, taught us to appreciate them better. He made his time, resources,
and love available to us, and unselfishly came to the rescue of many.Marx’s
zeal for life was exemplified by his hobbies—soccer, culture, and the arts.
Marx is remembered as an avid soccer fan, whose love for the game came to
life on many soccer fields where he played. Marx’s artistic talent will be
sorely missed. He taught himself to play the guitar, and enjoyed writing
cultural essays, poetry and plays –both in English and his native Haitian
Kréyòl.
Marx’s true essence transcends these words and is embodied in his legacy—a
legacy of dignity for all, empowerment of people of African descent, love of
country, family, and friends. "Onè" (Honor), you told us, Marx; "Respè"
(Respect), we respond.
A trust fund is being established for Marx’s 7-year old daughter. Pledges
are being accepted at this time. Please forward your name and/or
organization, contact information, and pledge offering to
friendsofmarx@yahoo.com
####
This news release was issued on behalf of Marx Vilaire Aristide’s family and
friends. If you have questions or comments, please send a message to
friendsofmarx@yahoo.com.

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