12418: Re: 12414: Health Volunteers Overseas (fwd)

[Bob Corbett <corbetre@webster.edu>]

From: VISHNUSURF@aol.com

Ms. Wick states that Haiti's health problems are "complicated by . . . "the
influence of voodoo in healing the sick . . . " This reflects remarkable
ignorance on her part of Haitian culture and the underlying paternalism of
her efforts to serve the poor.  In addition to "French in 10 Minutes a Day"
and "Creole Made Easy," I would suggest that HHHF volunteers also read MAMA
LOLA and AIDS AND ACCUSATION. This is not to question her or her
organization's intentions--it is only to advise us all that helping requires
first and foremost a true respect for and understanding of those we seek to
help. As Mambo Racine often reminds us, "Se Bon Ki Ra." Thus Ms. Wick's
efforts are to be applauded... it is her attitude that needs adjusting.