The last time I wrote about what I think the appropriate response in Haiti should be, I got drug through the wringer [1]. But the events of the last week have done nothing to convince me that I was wrong and that America needs to be in Haiti.
Happily, over the last week, I’ve talked to some like minded folk, and I’ve seen where a few people I don’t know tell us that they think the same as I, most notably Congressman Ron Paul. Here’s what he had to say about the subject. [2]
I rise in reluctant opposition to this resolution. Certainly I am moved by the horrific destruction in Haiti and would without hesitation express condolences to those who have suffered and continue to suffer. As a medical doctor, I have through my career worked to alleviate the pain and suffering of others.
Unfortunately, however, this resolution does not simply express our condolences, but rather it commits the US government “to begin the reconstruction of Haiti” and affirms that “the recovery and long-term needs of Haiti will require a sustained commitment by the United States….” I do not believe that a resolution expressing our deep regret and sorrow over this tragedy should be used to commit the United States to a “long-term” occupation of Haiti during which time the US government will provide for the reconstruction of that country.
Now, I’m not one to look for the affirmation of others as validation of my beliefs. To be honest, I realize that at least half of the people I meet have to, by definition, be of “below average intelligence”, and I usually just dismiss the ramblings of the idiots. But it’s nice to see others, people whom I respect for their ability to think, coming to similar conclusions.
No one argues that Haiti was devastated, nor that the suffering was/is great. But that does not give us reason to send in the troops. That does not give us license to step in and try to create a new order for a sovereign people. There is no reason why we should be willing to sacrifice the valuable lives of our soldiers, doctors, and relief workers for an open-ended occupation couched in terms like “We’re only here to help.”
This nation needs to learn to mind its own business.
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Mike McGowan [5]
Latest posts by Mike McGowan (Posts [6])
- From one single father to the next [7] - July 20, 2012
- Why isn’t anyone talking about the man [8] - February 13, 2012
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- Romney v. Newt: How the GOP and the conservative media killed the TEA Party [11] - January 31, 2012