Thursday, March 29, 2007
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
Peace & Collaboration Meeting March 22: Detailed Report
“PEACE & COLLABORATION CALL IN CITE SOLEIL”
Thursday March, 22 was Portable Water Day. UN Civilian Chief Edmond Miler and Sophie B. de Lacombe, the Brazilian troop Commander Fernando Barosso, Captain Schmitz, Captain Lucena, and Major Heron, as well as the Cite Soleil City Hall third representative, the press and others were present for a community gathering for peace.
Edmond Miler, the city hall representative, and UN soldiers made a symbolic act of peace in the idea to erase the weapon image among the population and reincarnate peace as the weapon of changes and social development. The ambiance took place in “Baz Jamaik”, meaning Jamaica Base as called by the Brazilian troop due to the various Jamaican color combinations therein. That used to be Evens Geune’s home and base. There was a machine gun painted on a wall which represented the sign of violence said Edmond Miler. The drawing was painted in white by the hand of Edmond and the city hall representative to symbolize peace in the community.
The civilian chief considered the UN operations across Haiti in helping to restore peace to be a success. He proposed to see a new Cite Soleil in the coming future beginning very soon as social work takes place in this community with full collaboration of the community in peace.
Engineer Frantz Mettelus exposed the cause of the water problem in Cite Soleil during this conference, the danger existing in non-purified, the solution proposed by his non-governmental organization, and water treatment demonstration at the end. Actually the population of that zone is receiving more than 40% less water than they used to due to non function sewer and machine from the district water central.
UN distributed purified water, medical assistance, food, animation and uses the time to come close to the community and be as friendly as possible to the little kids during the community gathering. It was he first time many people in Boston join a UN and national authority activity. The community was somewhat comfortable during that time and people could question the soldiers and at least expose their fear to Captain Schmitz at time and explain why people refuse to collaborate and afraid of the UN. I witness even wanted had questions and suggestion to the UN in seeking a long time peace in Cite Soleil. Both sides of the story, the citizens and the UN were soliciting peace and social developments for the community.
The Collaboration Meeting Call was scheduled that day morning for Friday March, 23 in Boston Community School for all school directors and leaders.
As motivated by the meeting was able to take place with about 70 school representatives and other leaders of community organization including the UN. The message sent by the UN for the collaboration call before motivating the meeting was for the people to tell them how to best help and move towards social development in the community according to their needs.
A table for fourteen people was dressed for leaders among the participants who is involving or leading an organization despite education. A selection was made quickly before commander Fernando Barosso came in. Shortly after the introduction, the UN made a proposal. They want to use “Base Jamaica” as a Community Centre were people in Cite Soleil can come in and place their grievances to the UN, and collaboration, and social opinion. The also intend to run educational program for youth in areas like typing, computer, art and culture, and first aid medical care.
Most People think it’s a good idea but not the most important right now. The proposal was rejected at 70%. And if in any case the UN really wants to have such office in the community they need to do that on a social profile said Joseph Romain Eugene a school director. The location chose for that Community Centre is not adequate enough and most people won’t feel comfortable to cope with the collaboration in that area. Most people rather begin repairing schools first and the damages suffered this community in this decade. Individual complaints were elevating as well round about the subject. Pictures of totally damaged schools call “Christophe Colomb” were shown to the commander. Repair was the most important point mentioned by all leaders and school directors.
Theodore Morelus suggested that the UN use the assistance proposed to instances which already exist in Cite Soleil and being at the population service in a long time. Medical assistance can be giving to CHAPI, or ST. Catherine Labouree Hospital, Hands Together, or other entities deal with medical care in the population. As for culture and art, computer and typing the community can use its own schools to do this kind of educational activity for the youth and older. The Community Centre should be established in a different place rather than Evens’ “Base Jamaica”. He thinks there are more important issues and needs in favor of the community to look into talking socialization in the mean time rather than just the first proposition.
Commander Fernando Barosso made it clear that the Brazilian troop is empty handed to help repairing the community. It is much easier to collaborate and ask for help from the international and other sectors repair all. It will be easier for MINUSTAH to find money to repair all community facilities instead of private ones. At that moment the meeting was not the same. There become a lot of mixed up, disagreement, and confusion. The commander left shortly because the meeting time was extended. Major Heron and Captain Lucena continued to lead the meeting base on the same proposition.
Many including the commander proposed to have several other meeting based on this collaboration. Theodore made the remark that the meeting isn’t well organized enough for the discussion being. He thinks it is best for the leaders to meet together before the next meeting scheduled for this coming Friday. There will be better motivation and common agreement among the leaders based on the population needs. It is even better for this group to have meeting with the community after the next meeting the engage the population into what’s going on. In addition, we need to be sure that the population agreed with his representative in this collaboration call. I don’t think it is all the leaders and directors are aware what this collaboration for and what does peace mean in a crisis like the on in Cite Soleil.
The leaders will meet on Wednesday at St. Thomas School before the collaboration meeting on Friday.
Until next post, Peace.
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Community Peace Gathering
Date:
Tue, 27 Mar 2007 08:19:27 +0000
Thursday March, 22 was Portable Water Day. UN civilian chief Edmond Miler and Sophie B. de Lacombe, the Brazilian troop Commander G. Baosso, Captain Schmitz, Captain Lucena, and Major Heron, as well as the Cite Soleil City Hall third representative and others were present for a community gatherimg for peace.
Edmond Miler, the city hall representative, and UN soldiers made a symbolic act of peace in the idea to erase the weapon image in the population mind and reincarnate peace as the weapon of changes and social development. The ambiance took place in “Baz Jamaik”, meaning Jamaica Base as call it by the Brazilian troop due to the various Jamaican color combinations. That used to be Evens Geune’s home and base. There was a machine gun painted on a wall which represented the sign of violence said Edmond Miler. The drawing was painted in white by the hand of Edmond and the city hall representative to symbolize peace in the community. He considered the UN operations across Haiti in helping to restore peace to be a success. He proposed to see a new Cite Soleil in the coming future beginning very soon as social work takes place in this community with full collaboration of the community for peace.
Guy
Tue, 27 Mar 2007 08:19:27 +0000
Thursday March, 22 was Portable Water Day. UN civilian chief Edmond Miler and Sophie B. de Lacombe, the Brazilian troop Commander G. Baosso, Captain Schmitz, Captain Lucena, and Major Heron, as well as the Cite Soleil City Hall third representative and others were present for a community gatherimg for peace.
Edmond Miler, the city hall representative, and UN soldiers made a symbolic act of peace in the idea to erase the weapon image in the population mind and reincarnate peace as the weapon of changes and social development. The ambiance took place in “Baz Jamaik”, meaning Jamaica Base as call it by the Brazilian troop due to the various Jamaican color combinations. That used to be Evens Geune’s home and base. There was a machine gun painted on a wall which represented the sign of violence said Edmond Miler. The drawing was painted in white by the hand of Edmond and the city hall representative to symbolize peace in the community. He considered the UN operations across Haiti in helping to restore peace to be a success. He proposed to see a new Cite Soleil in the coming future beginning very soon as social work takes place in this community with full collaboration of the community for peace.
Guy
Sunday, March 18, 2007
Illegal Guns Being Turned In
Subject: Guns of the streets of Cite Soleil...
Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:55:07 +0000
Many weapons from Cite Soleil were turn in to the UN last week. Individuals from “Belekou and Boston ” turned in illegal weapons to the Brazilian troop, MINUSTAH last Thursday.
Belekou former leader known as Amaral Duclonat is still running away from the law. Many people say he has been coping with the law instead of hiding, or running away from it. However, the fugitive Amaral Duclonat of “Belekou” is still free; Evens Geune is in custody denying all charges against him.
On Evens first appearance in court, he made a preliminary statement to the courtroom: I was fighting against kidnapping in Cite Soleil and several journalists and others can testify that after being released by me from real kidnappers of Cite Soleil.
UN in the mean time is seeking leaders of Cite soleil to collaborate and moving towards social work development and repair. As mentioned Captain Schmitz of the Brazilian troop, MINUSTAH needs the population collaboration to continue their operations and begin to help restoring the community. They need leaders from the community to represent the population so they get to know how to best move towards social development, and to fill the right requests for repair according to the population need.
Concern individuals and sectors in Cite Soleil were motivating even before the UN call to collaboration. On the contrary they were consulting different entities on the subject of socialization and reparation in the community. This work continues in Cite Soleil in the tendency to build a leading committee to deal with this collaboration call.
The national community school of Cite Soleil will be repaired before St. Thomas School said the captain of the Brazilian troops. That request has been approved by the United Nations responsible and the community school will be repairing soon. St. Thomas School will be the next one after. The UN seems to need the community’s support in placing the repair requests as was told by Captain Schmitz and Major Heron on last Wednesday. I was proposed to help them to sit down with the community leaders under social ad repair plans. It is a fact that the majority of the population isn’t comfortable with the UN so for the UN feels uncomfortable to move on without the people. In the mean time the UN is seeking real leaders of Cite Soleil to facilitate understanding between them and the community.
As the operations continues, Will keep watching close,
Justice, rehabilitation, and repair for Cite Soleil.
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: Mon, 19 Mar 2007 00:55:07 +0000
Many weapons from Cite Soleil were turn in to the UN last week. Individuals from “Belekou and Boston ” turned in illegal weapons to the Brazilian troop, MINUSTAH last Thursday.
Belekou former leader known as Amaral Duclonat is still running away from the law. Many people say he has been coping with the law instead of hiding, or running away from it. However, the fugitive Amaral Duclonat of “Belekou” is still free; Evens Geune is in custody denying all charges against him.
On Evens first appearance in court, he made a preliminary statement to the courtroom: I was fighting against kidnapping in Cite Soleil and several journalists and others can testify that after being released by me from real kidnappers of Cite Soleil.
UN in the mean time is seeking leaders of Cite soleil to collaborate and moving towards social work development and repair. As mentioned Captain Schmitz of the Brazilian troop, MINUSTAH needs the population collaboration to continue their operations and begin to help restoring the community. They need leaders from the community to represent the population so they get to know how to best move towards social development, and to fill the right requests for repair according to the population need.
Concern individuals and sectors in Cite Soleil were motivating even before the UN call to collaboration. On the contrary they were consulting different entities on the subject of socialization and reparation in the community. This work continues in Cite Soleil in the tendency to build a leading committee to deal with this collaboration call.
The national community school of Cite Soleil will be repaired before St. Thomas School said the captain of the Brazilian troops. That request has been approved by the United Nations responsible and the community school will be repairing soon. St. Thomas School will be the next one after. The UN seems to need the community’s support in placing the repair requests as was told by Captain Schmitz and Major Heron on last Wednesday. I was proposed to help them to sit down with the community leaders under social ad repair plans. It is a fact that the majority of the population isn’t comfortable with the UN so for the UN feels uncomfortable to move on without the people. In the mean time the UN is seeking real leaders of Cite Soleil to facilitate understanding between them and the community.
As the operations continues, Will keep watching close,
Justice, rehabilitation, and repair for Cite Soleil.
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Friday, March 16, 2007
St. Thomas School is First School Given Back by UN
STS is the First School Given Back by UN
Mon, 12 Mar 2007 04:50:14 +0000
On going!!!
St. Thomas School is actually the only school given back by UN out of five or six schools occupied in Cite Soleil in. Many little kids and teenagers are still hanging on the street of the shanty without the most fun place to be “SCHOOL”. Until when will the UN free those schools most people are asking? The National Community School is a public school out of those taking by UN. Only the government can possess it back. Many senators want the UN to leave the schools taken in Cite Soleil, but until now, the UN keeps all the schools occupied.
STS is working under very poor condition as we are waiting on UN repair and furniture replacement. STS community is though grateful to be able to work towards saving the school year for those students even under critical condition, it is best is to get through the school year before it’s too late.
In the mean time UN operations continues in Cite Soleil. Several arrests are made now and then, but who do they catch. I am certain several armed ones have been caught. Many innocents are being arrested as well and still incarcerating. One thing is a fact, the guns are still in Cite Soleil, most of the wanted are still in the ghetto and some already vacate the zone. Many people wonder if the operations include a searching gun process in talking about restoring peace in this ghetto.
Many citizens would love to join the UN on chasing the armed ones and help restoring peace on Cite Soleil, but there are filled with fear even though the UN are present. Most people don’t want to share any comments with me or any media because they no the zone’s soldiers are still around and the guns are still in the community. Thus, peace is so much wanted in Cite Soleil after more than ten years of illegal gun control and outlaw domination.
I think the operations undergoing in Cite Soleil would have been successful if indeed the UN was working head to with the National police. I don’t think they would be so much people being killed in there and it would be easier to restore a normal going community. Most Haitian in Cite Soleil speaks Creole UN speaks other.
I deny the UN making believe that his operations in Cite Soleil are made along with Haitian Police. I never see any Haitian police in Cite Soleil, but UN soldiers going around in military tanks.
I think it’s time to see some changes in Cite Soleil. From neighborhood war to political use, and finally the hardship Haiti is facing in economy, Cite Soleil becomes a shanty of outlaw for more ten years. Lately the terror of the bloody river emerge that community like never before. I think it’s the best time ever to free those people from all kind of human right violation, but the plans of operations are wrong. I generalized the UN, the
Haitian government and the outlaws of the community are all in this category of unconscious.
God has finally said enough. Everyone is concern about what’s going on in Cite Soleil and Haiti in General. A common effort and national and international fraternity can save those poor people in Cite Soleil with out of control children.
As this story unfolds, I will keep sharing the latest.
Peace and justice,
Guy
Wednesday, March 14, 2007
Three Students' Opinions
Students' opinion
Tue, 13 Mar 2007 01:47:31 +0000
From left to right:
Director Wenzy Joseph - St. Thomas School getting information from the three...
Guerlande Laguerre: Cite Soleil students, 12 years old, 3rd grade, school (St. Francois D’Assise)
Comment: My friends and I are lucky that the UN hasn’t taken over our school like some others in Cite Soleil. We are glad to go to school, but it hurts us to see some other friends wondering around the community on school time while UN is using their schools. I am so afraid when each time I see the soldiers either UN or the community soldiers. I wish to see every little kid in school, no shooting or killing in Cite Soleil, and the UN must go because they kill too many people in Cite Soleil. The chief of my zone “Belekou” don’t kill people in Cite Soleil like that. And I wish to have peace for me my family and everyone in the zone and a better going.
Jesusla Alexis: Cite Soleil students, 13 years old, 4th grade, school (St. Francois D’Assise)
Comment: I live in Boston and my friends in Belekou. I know commander Evens, I like him and he does good things for us. Evens repair my mother’s roof last year and build community canteen for us. No one even President Preval hasn’t done that for us. Now MINUSTAH took him or have him hide some where. Many students can’t go to school now because the UN takes the schools for station. When evens was here at this time of day one will see the little kids in school not wandering around the hood. My aunt got shot by UN in her chest two months ago in “Bois Neuf”. She is still struggling with that. I wish to see the UN out and the national police as well as my zone chief back in Cite Soleil. Plus, they must leave all the school so that the kids can go back to school and live normal peace in the community.
Berluise Joseph: Cite Soleil students, 13 years old, 3rd grade, school (St. Francois D’Assise)
Comment: I wish to see all the school doors open. I also wish to see either the UN or the bad boys out of our community. People have been living in fear for too long in Cite Soleil. Dear Wilme killed my cousin Jack three year ago and since that time, my aunt is life is trouble with all her six children. My uncle died many years ago. All I need is peace, school, food, playground, no killing or shooting, and that MINUSTAH repair our homes.
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Tuesday, March 13, 2007
Top Gangster Arrested!
The arrest is confirmed...
Wed, 14 Mar 2007 03:41:33 +0000
The arrest of Evens Geune is confirmed!
It is confirm that Evens Geune was caught and is in custody of the National Police. He was one of the chiefs of Cite soleil living in Boston in particular. I need to confirm that Evens was caught with his girlfriend, an eight months old baby, and his mother in-law in the Southwest area at a locality call "Braker" seventh section, Laurent near "Cayes" and the operation wasn't led by the UN but the PNH instead. The fugitive location was surrounded at five this morning by the National Police. As reported, he did not confront the authorities and they find no weapon on him nor in the house him and his people was in. The police could not identify him for some time after the arrest until further investigation. Evens and company was later transported to Port-Au-Prince on board of a UN helicopter.
He denied all charges against him such as gangster, kidnapper, and killer during press interview. He answered to a journalist that he is not working for anyone and he has not leaving Cite Soleil, but visiting his relatives in the area he got caught. Evens does not feel strange being caught. He also answered to have many children, but not mentioning any number.
Amaral Duclonat the next chief wanted in Cite Soleil is under run. The coming days to me will be very suspicious days in Cite Soleil. There, my approach is on people of the community whom wanted to live without this regiment but was in fear knowing that the chiefs and the soldiers were still free. Knowing this community from the past, many citizens might rise against the rest of the wanted hiding in the community.
Two days ago, four individuals were killed in Boston around two o'clock in the morning by a few community citizens. For a week they had been robbing poor street market people and others early before sunrise on the way to the down town street market. Sunday afternoon, they brought a kidnapped in the zone and some people noticed it and plot the kidnappers. People in the Zone did not show compassion to those death, but mourning that those kinds of things don't happen in Cite Soleil in a long time. The killing was made with guns, knifes, and other things and the UN did not reply or report when the shots went on, but they came for the dead bodies early morning. The kidnappers were from different neighborhoods of Cite Soleil, but it all took place in Boston . I know many people from the community are very angry and wish to do the final clean up of armed individuals in the community, but are waiting on the right time. I have a bad feeling about this since the killing of the four thieves/kidnappers in Boston the other day. I would rather a lawful eviction of those guys to the police instead of a bloody massacre like it happened in Bel-Air last year.
A big one is arrested, many are still wanted, Peace is mostly wanted, illegal weapons are still in Cite Soleil, I’ll keep watching as the situation continues.
Peace,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Wed, 14 Mar 2007 03:41:33 +0000
The arrest of Evens Geune is confirmed!
It is confirm that Evens Geune was caught and is in custody of the National Police. He was one of the chiefs of Cite soleil living in Boston in particular. I need to confirm that Evens was caught with his girlfriend, an eight months old baby, and his mother in-law in the Southwest area at a locality call "Braker" seventh section, Laurent near "Cayes" and the operation wasn't led by the UN but the PNH instead. The fugitive location was surrounded at five this morning by the National Police. As reported, he did not confront the authorities and they find no weapon on him nor in the house him and his people was in. The police could not identify him for some time after the arrest until further investigation. Evens and company was later transported to Port-Au-Prince on board of a UN helicopter.
He denied all charges against him such as gangster, kidnapper, and killer during press interview. He answered to a journalist that he is not working for anyone and he has not leaving Cite Soleil, but visiting his relatives in the area he got caught. Evens does not feel strange being caught. He also answered to have many children, but not mentioning any number.
Amaral Duclonat the next chief wanted in Cite Soleil is under run. The coming days to me will be very suspicious days in Cite Soleil. There, my approach is on people of the community whom wanted to live without this regiment but was in fear knowing that the chiefs and the soldiers were still free. Knowing this community from the past, many citizens might rise against the rest of the wanted hiding in the community.
Two days ago, four individuals were killed in Boston around two o'clock in the morning by a few community citizens. For a week they had been robbing poor street market people and others early before sunrise on the way to the down town street market. Sunday afternoon, they brought a kidnapped in the zone and some people noticed it and plot the kidnappers. People in the Zone did not show compassion to those death, but mourning that those kinds of things don't happen in Cite Soleil in a long time. The killing was made with guns, knifes, and other things and the UN did not reply or report when the shots went on, but they came for the dead bodies early morning. The kidnappers were from different neighborhoods of Cite Soleil, but it all took place in Boston . I know many people from the community are very angry and wish to do the final clean up of armed individuals in the community, but are waiting on the right time. I have a bad feeling about this since the killing of the four thieves/kidnappers in Boston the other day. I would rather a lawful eviction of those guys to the police instead of a bloody massacre like it happened in Bel-Air last year.
A big one is arrested, many are still wanted, Peace is mostly wanted, illegal weapons are still in Cite Soleil, I’ll keep watching as the situation continues.
Peace,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
February 2007 in Cite Soleil & the St. Thomas School
Mon, 5 Mar 2007 03:09:33 +0100 (CET)
Hi!
Attendance last week was 116 students. Next week we will have more than that and maybe our regular atttendance of 142. I am hopeful the kids will be able to get back in the regular building this week.
Blessings,
Guy
Mon, 05 Mar 2007 02:00:57 +0000
I have to meet captain Schmitz at STS tomorrow morning 8:00 AM. A soldier approached the Director during canteen last week and told him that the UN will give us back the school on Wednesday next week. They begin to repair the interior of the building since yesterday. I will go there tomorrow to see what’s next and report the latest to you. I wanted to reach you before then and sending pictures, but my internet service has been running poor speed since the beginning of the weekend.
I pray all of you are well in Jesus name.
Date: March 1, 2007 1:02:53 AM EST
Subject: Recent photo of STS classes
Hi Everyone,
I attached recent pictures of STS classes taking yesterday. When I left STS yesterday morning Wenzy called about a March destination to the US Embassy from Cite Soleil. STS was invited at the last minute. Several schools and people were participating. I don't know the out comes of that activity if it happened indeed, but I couldn't allow our students go to the March without motivating there parents and plus I wasn't sure who planned it. They wanted to send several messages to US government to stop the killing in Cite Soleil, reopen all school doors, restore peace, and reparation and...
I heard one of the chiefs in Cite Soleil is being caught, but I can't confirm that information yet. His name is Belony from "Bois Noeuf" were most kidnapped in this past time were taking to. I don't think anything is being stated about that on the news, but the approach of a deputy asking for immediate intervention of our police in a specific province area is a thought in addition to several individuals being caught o the road by the police and some escaped.
The story I know from the ghetto is like this. I was told that Belony sent about 20 of his soldiers there to prepare his terrain at his hometown. I don't recall the name of the province. Citizens of that province assassinated a few of those individuals intruding their community with guns and trying to control the area. Belony escape from his hiding place in Cite Soleil and go there to see what's going on, but the citizens ran after him and called the police. They said he was caught in a bus with several others later on.
I was also told that several others on the run from Boston including the chief Evens almost got caught yesterday by the UN around 1er Cite. Amazing affair isn't it. I wonder if people rather live in peace in that community or choose to live in there like it used to be? On the bottom line one must be very careful as you suggested many times.
I have not heard from the UN yet on STS case. I have no reply regarding the new possible sponsor Angie for SPARE. I don't know if someone is reaching her regarding the possibility yet. I hope everyone is continuing well. I will keep in touch.
Peace and good day,
Guy
February 17, 2007 6:44:46 AM EST
Attached are pictures taking yesterday morning during non-violent movement in front of STS. Also showing picture of students coming from school while a portion of schools are being taking over by UN. Slogan like "would STS be taking if it was for American rather than Haitian" was towing to the UN in the ambience of a marching band. The movement went across the ghetto and sure to pass before all UN posting points. Rumors the UN will leave the building after the carnival season which begins this Sunday until Tuesday. I was told the UN said that.
I have a meeting with STS this afternoon. We will see in different things such as finding a place for our sixth graders to continue with the school year, organizing food distribution, and changing ideas on a nonviolent coalition to force the UN out the school. We all feel too much disrespect and injustice in this especially after the UN press conference before taking over the schools. On the other hand, wanted people are going around in front of them daily and the guns are still around, but no major decision is taking for that. I think it's best to turn our schools into prison and base.
I think the UN mission in the ghetto is a failure thus far unless they caught the guys with guns. Is it just about the Venezuelan president visit to Haiti soon, or the UN is trying to extend his contract in Haiti ?
I talk to Coulou this morning about the possibility of using BYA's office to facilitate STS in doing certain things. He thinks it's no problem and he will talk to the rest of the members about it. I hope to meet with them very soon about STS.
I will keep in touch.
Blessings,
Guy
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 27, 2007 6:39:17 AM EST
Subject: STS is somewhat functioning...
Yesterday was our first day working in the small building and everythig went well. I don’t know how the teachers manage to have all the classes in there, but we had class for the kids of STS. Wenzy said they used the cafeteria and the storage room next to it to facilitate the other classes and some classes were divided in two portions. Today again we are working and hope to hear from the UN head this week to tell us when exactly they will give us the place back. It things continues to go well in that sense, I will begin to have canteen for the kids on Wednesday.
Blessings,
Guy
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 23, 2007 12:36:08 PM EST
Subject: Food distribution and meeting with UN captain today...
Mr. B!
Food distribution is done. Everything went well. We grouped in a different location and marched towards the building. The food was stored in two cars until the building. The teachers stayed organized help us through in order. We clear the area before we left it means that all the students and parents we gone in front of us and make sure that we respected our words.
From the time we begin the distribution, the UN begins to take pictures of our actions and video taped us from upstairs. They called their superior and by the time we were finishing three tanks came. Before that, two of them stopped Wenzy and begin to question him. Wenzy couldn’t answer everything so they call for me. They wanted to know who the money for the distribution is from. How come we are distributing money to the students plus food?
When the superior came he wanted answerers to a few questions, can you identify yourself, who is the school for, is the money from the gangsters of the community, and do I know the gangsters. Do you have the school partners or sponsors address, e-mail and coordinates? I answered his questions tell him about my coordinating work, STS, SPARE, and Harvest Time. He took pictures of identification and that on that Director. He said he will talk to his captain about it. I told him I talk to his captain this morning. I provide your telephone number, and e-mail. I also gave him mine and that of Wenzy.
Captain Smitch if I spell it right called me this morning. He wants to see me .... I will go meet him at 1:30 PM this afternoon. I am open to hear them and try my best to gain back the community of STS.
I got to run now. I will be sending picture of the distribution later and share the latest on our meeting with the captain Smitch.
Good day to all.
Blessings,
Guy
Date: February 22, 2007 8:19:44 PM EST
Subject: STS students approached UN in our builing today...
Hi
I am reporting STS movement in Cite Soleil today. Let me first say everything went well we are hoping to hear from the UN. I am going to explain in more details.
STS teachers and students gathered together in uniform this morning at Ecole Mixte St. Vincent de Paul in Boston . The group marched towards STS building and stands there until the UN approached. Shortly after, a soldier came down and asked what our demonstration is about. They asked for the director. Wenzy went in the building with a translator and talk to the soldiers. In the mean time four UN tanks were already heading towards us with siren and gun point. The soldiers from our building showed up a told them everything was fine. STS students and teachers were then surrounded by UN soldiers in a way to protect us from any attack and some trying to friendly with the kids suddenly.
The UN soldiers conversation with STS Director:
UN soldier (unknown) – What are you doing or demonstrating against?
Wenzy – We are not demonstrators or intending to protest, March, or having sittings against you or anyone we simply approach you in a pacific way to advise our intention towards our school and our students. We need to feed our students and need to know when we will have our building back to reopen our classes. On the contrary we are for peace in Cite Soleil.
The soldier was unable to answer at that point. He went to get a sergeant to continue.
UN sergeant (unknown) – We are aware this is a school building, but the school position is so useful to MINUSTAH’s operation to catch the bad guys and restore peace in the community. We can not leave the building right now, but we won’t stop you from using the next building or if anything my superior will decide. I can not answer you directly but leave your phone number and that of the head of the school our captain will get in touch with you.
Wenzy – We will have a food distribution for our students tomorrow morning in the building next door what do you think about that?
UN sergeant – On the contrary, we are glad you are feeding the kids. We also support schooling in Cite Soleil. We provide school supplies to schools etc… We do want the kids to go to school. We have no problem about the food distribution.
The director gave him mine and his phone number they then escort him out the building with the interpreter. We are waiting on the captain’s call. Notice that this activity did not include anyone else but those in the community of STS. Parents and other citizens of Boston were very glad we stand for the school. They are hopeful to see their kids in school and save the school year.
Tomorrow morning we will have the food distribution as scheduled. I don’t have any picture of today’s activity. I hope to do tomorrow. We feel a bit of satisfaction at this point in Haiti . Knowing we will reach and distribute food to our students during this time being is a blessing and a step forward. God is good.
God bless you all,
Guy
Date: February 20, 2007 12:20:11 PM EST
Subject: UN operations continue in Cite Soleil...
Hi everyone,
Another surprising morning in Cite Soleil. The UN continues their operations. This morning the neighborhood call “Belekou” is surrounded and undergoing operation is taking place. Other troops are patrolling the whole community’s perimeter to prevent the armed groups from attacking or supporting Belekou. I want to remind that there are 34 neighborhoods in Cite Soleil. Boston is the second closest zone to Belekou, and Brooklyn right next to it. Access is very limited in the everywhere. Already, I was informed a few armed ones have been arrested, there are no clashes or killings in Belekou, and this neighborhood’s chief house, Amaral is under UN possession. Many armed ones are under run or hiding somewhere. I will be updated as the day goes by. I hope to have the latest to share with you
It becomes impossible for us to gather before the school this morning to approach the UN. We postpone that movement until possible time. The director and I were able to motivate the teachers and students to cancel. I am thinking through the possibility of feeding the kids in the mean time and continue to see in saving the school year for our students especially sixth graders. It is possible to feed the kids at BYA’s office, but it will cost a four way trip or by foot for the kids. It is possible to find other places. I asked Elange to address his pastor at the meeting, but I don’t have any answer yet. I was to see her this morning. I will try to reach her by phone on this subject.
One thing is almost certain to me is that the school year is at risk for all the kids of Cite Soleil. Only The UN can really decide weather they will facilitate school functioning in the zone or not. I say that because they almost control the whole community now. The kids and their parents want the school doors open.
I will get back in touch.
Good day and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 19, 2007 9:48:13 AM EST
Subject: Our motivation in Haiti...
I had a meeting with St. STS teachers and staff on Saturday. There were different views and opinion about the situation at STS. Some of us are very uncomfortable with the situation, but oversee the injustice and willing to reply non-violently for the benefit of the students. The situation broke everyone’s heart. It exist a complexity for us at STS.
As you know, the two powerful groups in the community are the UN and the armed individuals. The UN took over our school while some of the bad guys are assuming if the school head aren’t the ones to agree with the UN to take over. Some of them don’t think like that. That becomes a second weird alibi on the school. I am doing my best to clear that out in many ways and to establish our normal functioning again. I don’t think normal functioning of STS can be done anytime soon because we are unsure how much damage is inside that building. It is a prerogative to insure the school year for sixth graders.
This is what the school people and I agreed and are motivating to do right now. Since yesterday, some of our teachers are going around the community with a megaphone inviting the students only to join us Tuesday morning to approach the UN about our first food distribution and to possibly know exactly when they will leave the facility, or will they provide us with another one since our location is at their opportune. We want to do this movement with teachers, staff and students only. We don’t even need any parents to be with us or else do not send the kids to join us. We are not intending to manifest right now, but organizing to have a better word from The UN about our building and the opportunity to feed our students and teachers.
Notice that our classes next to the main building are not occupied. That includes the cafeteria, and the kitchen area. We can use that side of STS for a distribution without disturbing the UN. We simply want them to know what we are about to do and hopeful to have their approach during that time. As I said, rumors they will leave all the school after this week but is not something official. Many organizations across the country are asking the UN the leave the school buildings even if they continue their mission in that zone. If they disagree to let us do that we won’t do it, but we will than move on to a non-violent-coalition against them to get the school back. STS as well as the others are being used by UN because of its heights and position. Their alibi to take over the schools is stupid.
It is no problem for us to have STS food distribution done at BYA’s office. I talk to a couple members on the phone and will have a meeting with them on Thursday. We are hopeful to have the distribution on Friday or Saturday.
It is said that their mission for Cite Soleil is not ending now while a water distribution to the community. The also arrest one of the neighborhood chief on Saturday. Not Boston chief, but one of them. The UN commander for the operation in Cite Soleil stated that they will continue their mission to restore a safety and a normal social environment to the community. They distribute water and juice to the community of Boston and trying to stimulate the kids with clowns and pictures etc… They promise to bring balls and toys to the kids, but they forget the kids need schooling.
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.
God bless you all,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 16, 2007 9:39:56 AM EST
Subject: RE: Latest about St. Thomas School situation
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Mr. B, Your message has some deep point and I am also more comfortable to know how what you and others can or can’t do at this point. I agree with many things you said and I don’t think the UN is intending to move out unless their mission is completed or being forced to do so by a non-coalition movement as it already has. Yesterday for instance there was a march in Cite Soleil. The school communities especially Hands Together and other sectors, STS teachers, as well as citizens of the ghetto were asking the UN to stop the killing, leave to schools, and allow normal activities in Cite Soleil. St. Thomas and the national school were two of the schools mentioned during the March. Some of our teachers were in the march. In the mean time, Hands Together schools are functioning. Today again there will be another march against the UN in Cite Soleil. I am intending to participate and am thinking why not organizing our own standing on that end against the UN asking non-violent coalition to join us as we join the recently made movements. For now, I have other discretion. I think it is best to have a meeting with STS people and decide some things in common. As advised, I do not let any of our teachers, staff or crew approach the UN. There is no shooting for a few days now. They pass by, or standing from distance and observe. Ducas’ mother is living very close by. We wanted to hear more from before we can figure out how to proceed. Almost everything is destroyed as people even notice our canteen Igloos are being used for hygiene. A toilet is made and connected to the top floor. I understand we may not be able to convince the UN to leave the facility right now, but is it just a thought being unsure that they won’t reimburse the damages caused to that little school good hearted Americans are supporting. I don’t think it would be fair to any of us including the community, the students, and the owner. If things continue like this, I too can take some action. I can prepare sittings, March, manifestation against the UN with in the community. One thing is unsure to me and I want to be clear on it before I can make any move. Before the UN took STS and other schools of the community, they had a press conference on national TV. The said the bad guys from the community are using schools to attack. They also mentioned that they notice armed individuals behind each manifestation or March movement against them. I need to know if the UN is meaning that STS is being used by armed ones to attack them. The alibi set against the schools the UN is destroying in Cite Soleil is strong. Do they also mean that the teachers, Harvest Time, and I are supporting outlaws of the community? If so, I am ready for their arrest along with the teachers and the students. I would be a nice time to reveal the UN corruptions I the ghetto such as providing guns and ammunitions to the bad guys. Many people in Cite Soleil don’t ask me for help from Harvest Time anymore. They want my own help. I know many do get the message about HT not having enough or willing to help people individually rather than a community. I don’t think I am personally able help anyone with rent or other heavy expenditure right now, but if I could I would. I wouldn’t let any one assume that I can help over again. I can always feel to do the right thing, but unable to. That’s why I do what’s right when I am able to and feel good about it. Learning to say no we I have to and also feel good about it. I will meet with the teachers tomorrow and arrange certain things such as finding a way to save the school year for the official students (six grades), organizing for food distribution. I think it is good to approach the UN as you said to see if they can be as human to help to have our food distribution in the school, but there again I think it is insulting to us to ask the UN for what’s already ours. We will try that any way. I am intending to get in contact with BYA members today to facilitate our food distribution in case the UN disagrees to help us. I am unsure about getting the church once more for food distribution, but we will think through during the meeting. My heart goes out to those kids and the community in general. Next thing the UN needs their own white house in Haiti as they want to have they own radio station here with the people money. In terms of community canteen, Food for the poor has two in Boston only; I am unsure how many they have in other neighborhoods of the ghetto. I know Hands together has one, but I am told is it closed for a while. STS school feed the kids as well as all Hands Together schools.
guy
Date: February 13, 2007 10:34:01 PM EST
Subject: Latest about STS...
I went to Cite Soleil today. I had a chance to visit the community shortly. I drove to STS from the main boulevard which was cut for long time. I made frequent stops talking to people before reaching the school. I saw the build building fully occupied by MINUSTAH. All top floor windows are being broke setting sandbag defense. The security gate on the second floor is cut in half. The office doorway is blocked with sandbag. The small building where beginners’ classes are at is not taking by them.
UN guns are pointed towards the community from the building. Tanks are patrolling around and stop in the heart of Boston as very often. I saw a few students, the substitute, the director, and a couple teachers. I talked to them in front of Hands Together’s clinic in Boston ; Coulou (BYA) was there as well. Suddenly while I was talking to the first group of people, a few of Boston youth came to join us. Everyone was sharing their point of view on the community. Two of the guys said they never come out of their house for two weeks until they heard I was around. The community is looking somber and isolated and terrified. There are no activities in the community, but little kids playing in the streets not even community canteens. There are two community canteens in Boston . Traffic is somewhat poor on the national road.
It is said that the UN will leave the schools sometimes soon, but no one is sure when.
I am having an intense pressure from the community despite my broken heart to them. I did not want to mention this but, people don’t seem to take no for an answer in this moment of trouble. I have multiple requests for assistance from people of community. People need food, money to join relatives in province, loan for rent, asking me to for shelter and refuge, and some need money to by phone cards so they can get in touch with relatives for help.
Everyone is waiting to see what is next, but everyday more and more people are leaving the zone. There is no doubt that almost everyone need to see the UN out the community and stop the killing. People denied this final intervention because the guns are still in Cite Soleil and well as the outlaws.
I will keep you posted on the latest as I watch the situation. God is good; we are all safe and our students as well.
Peace and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 12, 2007 1:08:15 PM EST
In this present hour, people of Boston and across Cite Soleil are manifesting against the UN to leave all the schools they are occupying in the ghetto and leave the ghetto in general. The group is actually in front of St. Thomas School asking the UN to leave the building. There are actually no armed individuals in Boston people want them to leave and let the kids go to school. I will be in touch soon.
What’s going on in your side about that case?
God bless you,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 9, 2007 10:05:57 PM EST
Subject: More info about UN in Cite Soleil...
Today at 2:00 PM UN soldiers finally step in the heart of Boston where the armed group had their base. UN soldiers actually control that area and the people there in. At the UN check point heading north coming to the ghetto many people are being held behind barbwire. The armed group including their chief is under run or hiding some where. I am listening to Boston chief Evens on the radio right now. His is talking to the nation crying and threating to kill himself seeing the UN killing innocent people even little babies trying to catch him. He swore to finish himself instead of being arrested or killed by UN soldiers. He rather turn in himself to the Haitian authorities.
The radio animator and the crowd that was surrounding Evens finally convinced him to give up the gun. He finally agreed to do so and willing to return his gun to the government if they want to. He said he tried to convince the president to return the guns, but Preval wouldn’t listen now because he had a chance to do that before now. There is a little interruption on the radio now, but I am still watching the situation close.
Many people living in the ghetto can not get back home for the street market or else where. Many from Cite Soleil are on the streets tonight seeking else where to rest. I know many are in danger because of the fact there are from Cite Soleil. As far as I know, two armed individuals are dead from the beginning, two little kids are dead, a young girl got killed receiving a UN bullet on her chest, and many got injured and shot.
More tomorrow Mr. B, John, and Greg,
Thanks for your prayers and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 9, 2007 7:15:51 AM EST
Hello
The UN forces took over St. Thomas School Building this morning around 3:00 AM. I am going to try to reach the teachers ahead of school time to share the info and have them stay away from the school. I want to go there this morning to see what's up. I am asking myself is it the right time to question the UN about this move. The building can be a very useful positon for the UN in their mission against the armed groups. I am assuming that is one of the reason why it has been taking.
Take care,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 7, 2007 12:52:54 AM EST
Hello everyone,
I want to share a few photos of the recent UN sprayed in Boston , Cite Soleil. I went to the zone today and profit the occasion. I saw the UN as serious as ever controlling the perimeter of Boston and Belekou. Armed ones are inside posting, or watching, or sleeping. The community seems terrified, somber, and almost empty, bullet sprays all over, fear if filling the innocent faces beyond each glance of hope and freedom. St. Thomas School attendance has dropped by 30%. As you can see for yourselves on the pictures, I wonder what’s next. In a general case, STS in one of the many schools being sprayed not to say all schools because I have not gone all around the 33 zones. I must say, only the Catholic Church and the Red Cross building have very few bullet marks.
I reset the clock on the camera while I was taking pictures some of the dates shown are wrong. I forgot to do so from the last time I took pictures. I am sure the date is set now.
I have additional pictures coming up. It is now 12:00 AM HT time. I get better speed for photo attachments around that time, but on weekend.
I am still following the situation in Boston as close possible.
Thanks for your prayers.
Be well and God bless you,
Guy
Date: February 3, 2007 12:53:29 PM EST
Subject: About the situation in Boston
I am writing in following the situation in Boston . Between Thursday night and Friday morning, UN soldiers begin to spray the Boston neighborhood with gun fire. Lately is no clashing only UN forces shooting on the community. In one house, two little kids got killed, the father got one bullet in his right arm, and the mother is in very critical condition at the hospital. I must mention that the six and the seven girls who got killed were the two youngest children of that family. Earlier this week, an armed guy from Boston got killed before sunrise.
As always, innocent citizens of the community are the only victims. I think MINUSTAH is forcing the zone’s citizen to handover the bad guys, but they seem to forget the citizens are afraid of both the armed individuals and them. People are in grate fear and danger lately. It is weird to me that I both UN and the bad guys don’t get in sympathy of the community. The bad guys or UN could ask the citizen to move so they can clash as tough ones. In my opinion, I think both sides are using and manipulating the community. Most of the citizens are blind or stupid when it comes to understanding the bad guys and UN. Most people in the community don’t understand which is really on their side. Those who are clever realizing that the UN could put a solution to the zone’s problem are having difficulty understanding the UN mission in their favor. On the other hand, even if they would try to join a coalition to save the community from the crisis they then afraid of the bad guys. Informers get killed. As I said the citizens of the community are the ones who get theorized and manipulated.
St. Thomas School walls got hit by UN bullets again. Yesterday, we sent the kids home early. The zone’s chief sent for me and asked me to send the kids back home because they surely don’t know what’s in the UN’s mind and they wouldn’t want any more victims from the UN. Since there were no clashing and canteen was getting ready, students came back for canteen at one. We will move on as we can as every other institution in the ghetto the staff and I agreed. I have a meeting with teachers this afternoon to touch some specific point on that subject and evacuation plans. The staff and I is preparing to work next week only when things are calm and ready to evacuate the kids if anything wrong begin. The kids are informed not to come to school until around 8:30 Am if in fact nothing goes wrong and if yes stay home until new order. Teachers and staff will be present each day and begin if we have the chance.
Many houses are damaged and people who can are getting away from the zone. I have four relatives from the ghetto at my place right now including a two months old baby. To me actually everyone is considered to be the same in Cite Soleil. Just anybody can be a victim.
I am following the situation close. I will keep you inform on the situation. Let us pray harder for Cite Soleil. I wish to see both the bad guys and the UN off the sight of those oppressed.
God bless you,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Hi!
Attendance last week was 116 students. Next week we will have more than that and maybe our regular atttendance of 142. I am hopeful the kids will be able to get back in the regular building this week.
Blessings,
Guy
Mon, 05 Mar 2007 02:00:57 +0000
I have to meet captain Schmitz at STS tomorrow morning 8:00 AM. A soldier approached the Director during canteen last week and told him that the UN will give us back the school on Wednesday next week. They begin to repair the interior of the building since yesterday. I will go there tomorrow to see what’s next and report the latest to you. I wanted to reach you before then and sending pictures, but my internet service has been running poor speed since the beginning of the weekend.
I pray all of you are well in Jesus name.
Date: March 1, 2007 1:02:53 AM EST
Subject: Recent photo of STS classes
Hi Everyone,
I attached recent pictures of STS classes taking yesterday. When I left STS yesterday morning Wenzy called about a March destination to the US Embassy from Cite Soleil. STS was invited at the last minute. Several schools and people were participating. I don't know the out comes of that activity if it happened indeed, but I couldn't allow our students go to the March without motivating there parents and plus I wasn't sure who planned it. They wanted to send several messages to US government to stop the killing in Cite Soleil, reopen all school doors, restore peace, and reparation and...
I heard one of the chiefs in Cite Soleil is being caught, but I can't confirm that information yet. His name is Belony from "Bois Noeuf" were most kidnapped in this past time were taking to. I don't think anything is being stated about that on the news, but the approach of a deputy asking for immediate intervention of our police in a specific province area is a thought in addition to several individuals being caught o the road by the police and some escaped.
The story I know from the ghetto is like this. I was told that Belony sent about 20 of his soldiers there to prepare his terrain at his hometown. I don't recall the name of the province. Citizens of that province assassinated a few of those individuals intruding their community with guns and trying to control the area. Belony escape from his hiding place in Cite Soleil and go there to see what's going on, but the citizens ran after him and called the police. They said he was caught in a bus with several others later on.
I was also told that several others on the run from Boston including the chief Evens almost got caught yesterday by the UN around 1er Cite. Amazing affair isn't it. I wonder if people rather live in peace in that community or choose to live in there like it used to be? On the bottom line one must be very careful as you suggested many times.
I have not heard from the UN yet on STS case. I have no reply regarding the new possible sponsor Angie for SPARE. I don't know if someone is reaching her regarding the possibility yet. I hope everyone is continuing well. I will keep in touch.
Peace and good day,
Guy
February 17, 2007 6:44:46 AM EST
Attached are pictures taking yesterday morning during non-violent movement in front of STS. Also showing picture of students coming from school while a portion of schools are being taking over by UN. Slogan like "would STS be taking if it was for American rather than Haitian" was towing to the UN in the ambience of a marching band. The movement went across the ghetto and sure to pass before all UN posting points. Rumors the UN will leave the building after the carnival season which begins this Sunday until Tuesday. I was told the UN said that.
I have a meeting with STS this afternoon. We will see in different things such as finding a place for our sixth graders to continue with the school year, organizing food distribution, and changing ideas on a nonviolent coalition to force the UN out the school. We all feel too much disrespect and injustice in this especially after the UN press conference before taking over the schools. On the other hand, wanted people are going around in front of them daily and the guns are still around, but no major decision is taking for that. I think it's best to turn our schools into prison and base.
I think the UN mission in the ghetto is a failure thus far unless they caught the guys with guns. Is it just about the Venezuelan president visit to Haiti soon, or the UN is trying to extend his contract in Haiti ?
I talk to Coulou this morning about the possibility of using BYA's office to facilitate STS in doing certain things. He thinks it's no problem and he will talk to the rest of the members about it. I hope to meet with them very soon about STS.
I will keep in touch.
Blessings,
Guy
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 27, 2007 6:39:17 AM EST
Subject: STS is somewhat functioning...
Yesterday was our first day working in the small building and everythig went well. I don’t know how the teachers manage to have all the classes in there, but we had class for the kids of STS. Wenzy said they used the cafeteria and the storage room next to it to facilitate the other classes and some classes were divided in two portions. Today again we are working and hope to hear from the UN head this week to tell us when exactly they will give us the place back. It things continues to go well in that sense, I will begin to have canteen for the kids on Wednesday.
Blessings,
Guy
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 23, 2007 12:36:08 PM EST
Subject: Food distribution and meeting with UN captain today...
Mr. B!
Food distribution is done. Everything went well. We grouped in a different location and marched towards the building. The food was stored in two cars until the building. The teachers stayed organized help us through in order. We clear the area before we left it means that all the students and parents we gone in front of us and make sure that we respected our words.
From the time we begin the distribution, the UN begins to take pictures of our actions and video taped us from upstairs. They called their superior and by the time we were finishing three tanks came. Before that, two of them stopped Wenzy and begin to question him. Wenzy couldn’t answer everything so they call for me. They wanted to know who the money for the distribution is from. How come we are distributing money to the students plus food?
When the superior came he wanted answerers to a few questions, can you identify yourself, who is the school for, is the money from the gangsters of the community, and do I know the gangsters. Do you have the school partners or sponsors address, e-mail and coordinates? I answered his questions tell him about my coordinating work, STS, SPARE, and Harvest Time. He took pictures of identification and that on that Director. He said he will talk to his captain about it. I told him I talk to his captain this morning. I provide your telephone number, and e-mail. I also gave him mine and that of Wenzy.
Captain Smitch if I spell it right called me this morning. He wants to see me .... I will go meet him at 1:30 PM this afternoon. I am open to hear them and try my best to gain back the community of STS.
I got to run now. I will be sending picture of the distribution later and share the latest on our meeting with the captain Smitch.
Good day to all.
Blessings,
Guy
Date: February 22, 2007 8:19:44 PM EST
Subject: STS students approached UN in our builing today...
Hi
I am reporting STS movement in Cite Soleil today. Let me first say everything went well we are hoping to hear from the UN. I am going to explain in more details.
STS teachers and students gathered together in uniform this morning at Ecole Mixte St. Vincent de Paul in Boston . The group marched towards STS building and stands there until the UN approached. Shortly after, a soldier came down and asked what our demonstration is about. They asked for the director. Wenzy went in the building with a translator and talk to the soldiers. In the mean time four UN tanks were already heading towards us with siren and gun point. The soldiers from our building showed up a told them everything was fine. STS students and teachers were then surrounded by UN soldiers in a way to protect us from any attack and some trying to friendly with the kids suddenly.
The UN soldiers conversation with STS Director:
UN soldier (unknown) – What are you doing or demonstrating against?
Wenzy – We are not demonstrators or intending to protest, March, or having sittings against you or anyone we simply approach you in a pacific way to advise our intention towards our school and our students. We need to feed our students and need to know when we will have our building back to reopen our classes. On the contrary we are for peace in Cite Soleil.
The soldier was unable to answer at that point. He went to get a sergeant to continue.
UN sergeant (unknown) – We are aware this is a school building, but the school position is so useful to MINUSTAH’s operation to catch the bad guys and restore peace in the community. We can not leave the building right now, but we won’t stop you from using the next building or if anything my superior will decide. I can not answer you directly but leave your phone number and that of the head of the school our captain will get in touch with you.
Wenzy – We will have a food distribution for our students tomorrow morning in the building next door what do you think about that?
UN sergeant – On the contrary, we are glad you are feeding the kids. We also support schooling in Cite Soleil. We provide school supplies to schools etc… We do want the kids to go to school. We have no problem about the food distribution.
The director gave him mine and his phone number they then escort him out the building with the interpreter. We are waiting on the captain’s call. Notice that this activity did not include anyone else but those in the community of STS. Parents and other citizens of Boston were very glad we stand for the school. They are hopeful to see their kids in school and save the school year.
Tomorrow morning we will have the food distribution as scheduled. I don’t have any picture of today’s activity. I hope to do tomorrow. We feel a bit of satisfaction at this point in Haiti . Knowing we will reach and distribute food to our students during this time being is a blessing and a step forward. God is good.
God bless you all,
Guy
Date: February 20, 2007 12:20:11 PM EST
Subject: UN operations continue in Cite Soleil...
Hi everyone,
Another surprising morning in Cite Soleil. The UN continues their operations. This morning the neighborhood call “Belekou” is surrounded and undergoing operation is taking place. Other troops are patrolling the whole community’s perimeter to prevent the armed groups from attacking or supporting Belekou. I want to remind that there are 34 neighborhoods in Cite Soleil. Boston is the second closest zone to Belekou, and Brooklyn right next to it. Access is very limited in the everywhere. Already, I was informed a few armed ones have been arrested, there are no clashes or killings in Belekou, and this neighborhood’s chief house, Amaral is under UN possession. Many armed ones are under run or hiding somewhere. I will be updated as the day goes by. I hope to have the latest to share with you
It becomes impossible for us to gather before the school this morning to approach the UN. We postpone that movement until possible time. The director and I were able to motivate the teachers and students to cancel. I am thinking through the possibility of feeding the kids in the mean time and continue to see in saving the school year for our students especially sixth graders. It is possible to feed the kids at BYA’s office, but it will cost a four way trip or by foot for the kids. It is possible to find other places. I asked Elange to address his pastor at the meeting, but I don’t have any answer yet. I was to see her this morning. I will try to reach her by phone on this subject.
One thing is almost certain to me is that the school year is at risk for all the kids of Cite Soleil. Only The UN can really decide weather they will facilitate school functioning in the zone or not. I say that because they almost control the whole community now. The kids and their parents want the school doors open.
I will get back in touch.
Good day and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 19, 2007 9:48:13 AM EST
Subject: Our motivation in Haiti...
I had a meeting with St. STS teachers and staff on Saturday. There were different views and opinion about the situation at STS. Some of us are very uncomfortable with the situation, but oversee the injustice and willing to reply non-violently for the benefit of the students. The situation broke everyone’s heart. It exist a complexity for us at STS.
As you know, the two powerful groups in the community are the UN and the armed individuals. The UN took over our school while some of the bad guys are assuming if the school head aren’t the ones to agree with the UN to take over. Some of them don’t think like that. That becomes a second weird alibi on the school. I am doing my best to clear that out in many ways and to establish our normal functioning again. I don’t think normal functioning of STS can be done anytime soon because we are unsure how much damage is inside that building. It is a prerogative to insure the school year for sixth graders.
This is what the school people and I agreed and are motivating to do right now. Since yesterday, some of our teachers are going around the community with a megaphone inviting the students only to join us Tuesday morning to approach the UN about our first food distribution and to possibly know exactly when they will leave the facility, or will they provide us with another one since our location is at their opportune. We want to do this movement with teachers, staff and students only. We don’t even need any parents to be with us or else do not send the kids to join us. We are not intending to manifest right now, but organizing to have a better word from The UN about our building and the opportunity to feed our students and teachers.
Notice that our classes next to the main building are not occupied. That includes the cafeteria, and the kitchen area. We can use that side of STS for a distribution without disturbing the UN. We simply want them to know what we are about to do and hopeful to have their approach during that time. As I said, rumors they will leave all the school after this week but is not something official. Many organizations across the country are asking the UN the leave the school buildings even if they continue their mission in that zone. If they disagree to let us do that we won’t do it, but we will than move on to a non-violent-coalition against them to get the school back. STS as well as the others are being used by UN because of its heights and position. Their alibi to take over the schools is stupid.
It is no problem for us to have STS food distribution done at BYA’s office. I talk to a couple members on the phone and will have a meeting with them on Thursday. We are hopeful to have the distribution on Friday or Saturday.
It is said that their mission for Cite Soleil is not ending now while a water distribution to the community. The also arrest one of the neighborhood chief on Saturday. Not Boston chief, but one of them. The UN commander for the operation in Cite Soleil stated that they will continue their mission to restore a safety and a normal social environment to the community. They distribute water and juice to the community of Boston and trying to stimulate the kids with clowns and pictures etc… They promise to bring balls and toys to the kids, but they forget the kids need schooling.
Thanks for your prayers and thoughts.
God bless you all,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 16, 2007 9:39:56 AM EST
Subject: RE: Latest about St. Thomas School situation
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Mr. B, Your message has some deep point and I am also more comfortable to know how what you and others can or can’t do at this point. I agree with many things you said and I don’t think the UN is intending to move out unless their mission is completed or being forced to do so by a non-coalition movement as it already has. Yesterday for instance there was a march in Cite Soleil. The school communities especially Hands Together and other sectors, STS teachers, as well as citizens of the ghetto were asking the UN to stop the killing, leave to schools, and allow normal activities in Cite Soleil. St. Thomas and the national school were two of the schools mentioned during the March. Some of our teachers were in the march. In the mean time, Hands Together schools are functioning. Today again there will be another march against the UN in Cite Soleil. I am intending to participate and am thinking why not organizing our own standing on that end against the UN asking non-violent coalition to join us as we join the recently made movements. For now, I have other discretion. I think it is best to have a meeting with STS people and decide some things in common. As advised, I do not let any of our teachers, staff or crew approach the UN. There is no shooting for a few days now. They pass by, or standing from distance and observe. Ducas’ mother is living very close by. We wanted to hear more from before we can figure out how to proceed. Almost everything is destroyed as people even notice our canteen Igloos are being used for hygiene. A toilet is made and connected to the top floor. I understand we may not be able to convince the UN to leave the facility right now, but is it just a thought being unsure that they won’t reimburse the damages caused to that little school good hearted Americans are supporting. I don’t think it would be fair to any of us including the community, the students, and the owner. If things continue like this, I too can take some action. I can prepare sittings, March, manifestation against the UN with in the community. One thing is unsure to me and I want to be clear on it before I can make any move. Before the UN took STS and other schools of the community, they had a press conference on national TV. The said the bad guys from the community are using schools to attack. They also mentioned that they notice armed individuals behind each manifestation or March movement against them. I need to know if the UN is meaning that STS is being used by armed ones to attack them. The alibi set against the schools the UN is destroying in Cite Soleil is strong. Do they also mean that the teachers, Harvest Time, and I are supporting outlaws of the community? If so, I am ready for their arrest along with the teachers and the students. I would be a nice time to reveal the UN corruptions I the ghetto such as providing guns and ammunitions to the bad guys. Many people in Cite Soleil don’t ask me for help from Harvest Time anymore. They want my own help. I know many do get the message about HT not having enough or willing to help people individually rather than a community. I don’t think I am personally able help anyone with rent or other heavy expenditure right now, but if I could I would. I wouldn’t let any one assume that I can help over again. I can always feel to do the right thing, but unable to. That’s why I do what’s right when I am able to and feel good about it. Learning to say no we I have to and also feel good about it. I will meet with the teachers tomorrow and arrange certain things such as finding a way to save the school year for the official students (six grades), organizing for food distribution. I think it is good to approach the UN as you said to see if they can be as human to help to have our food distribution in the school, but there again I think it is insulting to us to ask the UN for what’s already ours. We will try that any way. I am intending to get in contact with BYA members today to facilitate our food distribution in case the UN disagrees to help us. I am unsure about getting the church once more for food distribution, but we will think through during the meeting. My heart goes out to those kids and the community in general. Next thing the UN needs their own white house in Haiti as they want to have they own radio station here with the people money. In terms of community canteen, Food for the poor has two in Boston only; I am unsure how many they have in other neighborhoods of the ghetto. I know Hands together has one, but I am told is it closed for a while. STS school feed the kids as well as all Hands Together schools.
guy
Date: February 13, 2007 10:34:01 PM EST
Subject: Latest about STS...
I went to Cite Soleil today. I had a chance to visit the community shortly. I drove to STS from the main boulevard which was cut for long time. I made frequent stops talking to people before reaching the school. I saw the build building fully occupied by MINUSTAH. All top floor windows are being broke setting sandbag defense. The security gate on the second floor is cut in half. The office doorway is blocked with sandbag. The small building where beginners’ classes are at is not taking by them.
UN guns are pointed towards the community from the building. Tanks are patrolling around and stop in the heart of Boston as very often. I saw a few students, the substitute, the director, and a couple teachers. I talked to them in front of Hands Together’s clinic in Boston ; Coulou (BYA) was there as well. Suddenly while I was talking to the first group of people, a few of Boston youth came to join us. Everyone was sharing their point of view on the community. Two of the guys said they never come out of their house for two weeks until they heard I was around. The community is looking somber and isolated and terrified. There are no activities in the community, but little kids playing in the streets not even community canteens. There are two community canteens in Boston . Traffic is somewhat poor on the national road.
It is said that the UN will leave the schools sometimes soon, but no one is sure when.
I am having an intense pressure from the community despite my broken heart to them. I did not want to mention this but, people don’t seem to take no for an answer in this moment of trouble. I have multiple requests for assistance from people of community. People need food, money to join relatives in province, loan for rent, asking me to for shelter and refuge, and some need money to by phone cards so they can get in touch with relatives for help.
Everyone is waiting to see what is next, but everyday more and more people are leaving the zone. There is no doubt that almost everyone need to see the UN out the community and stop the killing. People denied this final intervention because the guns are still in Cite Soleil and well as the outlaws.
I will keep you posted on the latest as I watch the situation. God is good; we are all safe and our students as well.
Peace and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Date: February 12, 2007 1:08:15 PM EST
In this present hour, people of Boston and across Cite Soleil are manifesting against the UN to leave all the schools they are occupying in the ghetto and leave the ghetto in general. The group is actually in front of St. Thomas School asking the UN to leave the building. There are actually no armed individuals in Boston people want them to leave and let the kids go to school. I will be in touch soon.
What’s going on in your side about that case?
God bless you,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 9, 2007 10:05:57 PM EST
Subject: More info about UN in Cite Soleil...
Today at 2:00 PM UN soldiers finally step in the heart of Boston where the armed group had their base. UN soldiers actually control that area and the people there in. At the UN check point heading north coming to the ghetto many people are being held behind barbwire. The armed group including their chief is under run or hiding some where. I am listening to Boston chief Evens on the radio right now. His is talking to the nation crying and threating to kill himself seeing the UN killing innocent people even little babies trying to catch him. He swore to finish himself instead of being arrested or killed by UN soldiers. He rather turn in himself to the Haitian authorities.
The radio animator and the crowd that was surrounding Evens finally convinced him to give up the gun. He finally agreed to do so and willing to return his gun to the government if they want to. He said he tried to convince the president to return the guns, but Preval wouldn’t listen now because he had a chance to do that before now. There is a little interruption on the radio now, but I am still watching the situation close.
Many people living in the ghetto can not get back home for the street market or else where. Many from Cite Soleil are on the streets tonight seeking else where to rest. I know many are in danger because of the fact there are from Cite Soleil. As far as I know, two armed individuals are dead from the beginning, two little kids are dead, a young girl got killed receiving a UN bullet on her chest, and many got injured and shot.
More tomorrow Mr. B, John, and Greg,
Thanks for your prayers and blessings,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 9, 2007 7:15:51 AM EST
Hello
The UN forces took over St. Thomas School Building this morning around 3:00 AM. I am going to try to reach the teachers ahead of school time to share the info and have them stay away from the school. I want to go there this morning to see what's up. I am asking myself is it the right time to question the UN about this move. The building can be a very useful positon for the UN in their mission against the armed groups. I am assuming that is one of the reason why it has been taking.
Take care,
Guy, Theodore Morelus
Date: February 7, 2007 12:52:54 AM EST
Hello everyone,
I want to share a few photos of the recent UN sprayed in Boston , Cite Soleil. I went to the zone today and profit the occasion. I saw the UN as serious as ever controlling the perimeter of Boston and Belekou. Armed ones are inside posting, or watching, or sleeping. The community seems terrified, somber, and almost empty, bullet sprays all over, fear if filling the innocent faces beyond each glance of hope and freedom. St. Thomas School attendance has dropped by 30%. As you can see for yourselves on the pictures, I wonder what’s next. In a general case, STS in one of the many schools being sprayed not to say all schools because I have not gone all around the 33 zones. I must say, only the Catholic Church and the Red Cross building have very few bullet marks.
I reset the clock on the camera while I was taking pictures some of the dates shown are wrong. I forgot to do so from the last time I took pictures. I am sure the date is set now.
I have additional pictures coming up. It is now 12:00 AM HT time. I get better speed for photo attachments around that time, but on weekend.
I am still following the situation in Boston as close possible.
Thanks for your prayers.
Be well and God bless you,
Guy
Date: February 3, 2007 12:53:29 PM EST
Subject: About the situation in Boston
I am writing in following the situation in Boston . Between Thursday night and Friday morning, UN soldiers begin to spray the Boston neighborhood with gun fire. Lately is no clashing only UN forces shooting on the community. In one house, two little kids got killed, the father got one bullet in his right arm, and the mother is in very critical condition at the hospital. I must mention that the six and the seven girls who got killed were the two youngest children of that family. Earlier this week, an armed guy from Boston got killed before sunrise.
As always, innocent citizens of the community are the only victims. I think MINUSTAH is forcing the zone’s citizen to handover the bad guys, but they seem to forget the citizens are afraid of both the armed individuals and them. People are in grate fear and danger lately. It is weird to me that I both UN and the bad guys don’t get in sympathy of the community. The bad guys or UN could ask the citizen to move so they can clash as tough ones. In my opinion, I think both sides are using and manipulating the community. Most of the citizens are blind or stupid when it comes to understanding the bad guys and UN. Most people in the community don’t understand which is really on their side. Those who are clever realizing that the UN could put a solution to the zone’s problem are having difficulty understanding the UN mission in their favor. On the other hand, even if they would try to join a coalition to save the community from the crisis they then afraid of the bad guys. Informers get killed. As I said the citizens of the community are the ones who get theorized and manipulated.
St. Thomas School walls got hit by UN bullets again. Yesterday, we sent the kids home early. The zone’s chief sent for me and asked me to send the kids back home because they surely don’t know what’s in the UN’s mind and they wouldn’t want any more victims from the UN. Since there were no clashing and canteen was getting ready, students came back for canteen at one. We will move on as we can as every other institution in the ghetto the staff and I agreed. I have a meeting with teachers this afternoon to touch some specific point on that subject and evacuation plans. The staff and I is preparing to work next week only when things are calm and ready to evacuate the kids if anything wrong begin. The kids are informed not to come to school until around 8:30 Am if in fact nothing goes wrong and if yes stay home until new order. Teachers and staff will be present each day and begin if we have the chance.
Many houses are damaged and people who can are getting away from the zone. I have four relatives from the ghetto at my place right now including a two months old baby. To me actually everyone is considered to be the same in Cite Soleil. Just anybody can be a victim.
I am following the situation close. I will keep you inform on the situation. Let us pray harder for Cite Soleil. I wish to see both the bad guys and the UN off the sight of those oppressed.
God bless you,
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
What Do You Think?
WHAT DO YOU THINK?
•
• I think its time to have peace in Cite Soleil-To have all the illegal guns of the streets- To reopen all school doors and build more- To repair all damages cost by UN to the community-To reopen all police stations in Cite Soleil and let justice triumph- To create jobs, youth activities, and opportunities. Give them school, food, housing, and opportunity instead of misery and violence.
• I live in Boston Cite Soleil for about 15 years now. I see the community struggle from violence for over ten years. I am actually staying over a relative while I could be home, but I don’t want to be a victim of all those gun clashes. I miss this population when it was loving, and peaceful, even plates are sharing from house to house among residents. It was so much like Jesus want it to be. Love thy neighbor .
Jean Balmir
•
• I think its time to have peace in Cite Soleil-To have all the illegal guns of the streets- To reopen all school doors and build more- To repair all damages cost by UN to the community-To reopen all police stations in Cite Soleil and let justice triumph- To create jobs, youth activities, and opportunities. Give them school, food, housing, and opportunity instead of misery and violence.
• I live in Boston Cite Soleil for about 15 years now. I see the community struggle from violence for over ten years. I am actually staying over a relative while I could be home, but I don’t want to be a victim of all those gun clashes. I miss this population when it was loving, and peaceful, even plates are sharing from house to house among residents. It was so much like Jesus want it to be. Love thy neighbor .
Jean Balmir
Tuesday, March 6, 2007
Good News!!
Good News!
As scheduled, the UN, and us met this morning at St. Thomas School. They met with the staff first expressing how sorry there were to take over a sacred place, but this building helped very much to bring the ongoing peace in Cite Soleil. They are now feeling better to work in the community not hearing any shots to endanger any one and will continue to work hard to help reestablish a peaceful community without gangs’ disturbances. They will send a Brazilian troop to repair later on and wish we can patiently manage to continue teaching the kids. They leave a 500 gallons water reservoir in the second floor hope the kids can use it and there willing to deliver water every now and then. They will come by sometimes to visit us. I was handed the key under picture taking with Wenzy and Kesner, Major Heron and his translator. We took a look around quickly and then visited the classrooms.
Heron mentioned that STS is a blessed place because he did not lost one soldier in there. One of his soldiers got shot in the building the night there were taking over, but luckily one bullet out of four only ruffle the soldiers shoulder.
They then asked to visit each class so that they can apology to the students and teachers and to be able to share a few words with them. They also wanted to leave a couple gifts with the students like a bag with a couple notebooks and other writing supplies. We allowed them to. They gave a sport pack with a shot and t-shirt. They also gave close to a dozen soccer and basketball to the office for the school. They made their distribution, took as many pictures, salute us and go.
People in the community were very content about what happened today. They hope now we can manage to operate in the building since the end of the school year is approaching. The kids are very excited and happy that we now have their school back. Many, many thanks for your prayers and focus on the issue.
God is good and mighty, we made this first step triumphal until reparation is done at STS.
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
As scheduled, the UN, and us met this morning at St. Thomas School. They met with the staff first expressing how sorry there were to take over a sacred place, but this building helped very much to bring the ongoing peace in Cite Soleil. They are now feeling better to work in the community not hearing any shots to endanger any one and will continue to work hard to help reestablish a peaceful community without gangs’ disturbances. They will send a Brazilian troop to repair later on and wish we can patiently manage to continue teaching the kids. They leave a 500 gallons water reservoir in the second floor hope the kids can use it and there willing to deliver water every now and then. They will come by sometimes to visit us. I was handed the key under picture taking with Wenzy and Kesner, Major Heron and his translator. We took a look around quickly and then visited the classrooms.
Heron mentioned that STS is a blessed place because he did not lost one soldier in there. One of his soldiers got shot in the building the night there were taking over, but luckily one bullet out of four only ruffle the soldiers shoulder.
They then asked to visit each class so that they can apology to the students and teachers and to be able to share a few words with them. They also wanted to leave a couple gifts with the students like a bag with a couple notebooks and other writing supplies. We allowed them to. They gave a sport pack with a shot and t-shirt. They also gave close to a dozen soccer and basketball to the office for the school. They made their distribution, took as many pictures, salute us and go.
People in the community were very content about what happened today. They hope now we can manage to operate in the building since the end of the school year is approaching. The kids are very excited and happy that we now have their school back. Many, many thanks for your prayers and focus on the issue.
God is good and mighty, we made this first step triumphal until reparation is done at STS.
Guy, Theodore Morelus.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)