Congresswoman Lee Commemorates 5th Anniversary of Haitian Earthquake
Washington, DC – Congresswoman Barbara Lee released the following statement commemorating the 5th anniversary of the Haitian earthquake:
“Following the devastating earthquake that struck Haiti five years ago, the American people generously and selflessly reached out to provide support to our Haitian neighbors.
Throughout this tragedy, the Haitian people have remained resilient and have shown immense determination to rebuild their lives and their country.
Last year, I was pleased to see Congress pass and the President sign my Assessing Progress in Haiti Act into law. This law will establish greater strategic direction and oversight for U.S. assistance to Haiti. The State Department released its first required report to Congress this week.
The Assessing Progress in Haiti Act called for yearly reports to Congress on aid delivery and the establishment a three-year action plan for U.S. aid to Haiti. These reports provide better oversight for current and future assistance programs. Greater oversight will ensure these programs are the most effective and build long-term sustainable local capacity.
Since the earthquake, Haiti has made progress but much work still remains. I stand today in remembrance and solidarity with the people of Haiti.”
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Congresswoman Lee is a member of the Appropriations Committee, the Steering and Policy Committee, is a Senior Democratic Whip, former chair of the Congressional Black Caucus and co-chair of the Progressive Caucus. She serves as chair of the Whip’s Task Force on Poverty and Opportunity.