Djaloki in Portland, Maine - April 9, 2005
HAITI
TIME OF CRISIS, TIME OF HOPE
University of Southern Maine, 206 Payson Smith Hall
April 9, 2005 9:30 am 3:00 pm
A Forum on Haitidesigned to
· Contribute to an awareness of Haitian culture and Haitis long struggle for independence
· Review recent political developments affecting Haiti
· Encourage the formation of a Maine campaign of solidarity with the Haitian people
10:00 am: Featured Speaker Djalòki Dessables
A political activist and scholar, Djalòki Dessables lives in Haiti and travels extensively in Europe and the United States. His interests range widely and he is an experienced communicator of Haitian history and culture. He has long been involved in developing historical preservation projects and in implementing programs that foster leadership skills among Haitian citizens. Exemplifying the long ties between Haiti and the United States, Djalòki Dessables is a descendant of the eighteenth century fur trader and explorer who founded the city of Chicago. He is presently on a lecture tour in the United States.
Noon: bring a bag lunch other refreshments provided
1 P.M. Interactive Panel Discussion
Several people concerned with political, humanitarian, and cultural aspects of Haitian life will join a panel moderated by Wells Staley Mays of Portland. The panel includes Tom Luce, a Haiti solidarity activist from Vermont, Victoria Szatkowski, member of Maine Haiti Solidarity and former resident of Haiti, Jim Harney, a photojournalist who visited Haiti last year, and Reg Gagnon, a veteran humanitarian volunteer. This will be the occasion for a full discussion among panel members and all others as they share knowledge, experience, and ideas. The search is on for just how Maine people can enter into solidarity with the Haitian people and work politically for democracy in Haiti.
3:00 P.M. Wrap up - Victoria Szatkowski
And more! Preceding and during the noonhour, the Kevin Pina film Haiti: Killing the Dream will be shown. At 2:30 PM, Jim Harney will show images taken during his recent trip to Haiti
The Forum is sponsored by Maine Haiti Solidarity, Peace Action Maine, Maine Foreign Affairs Education Fund, NAACP, Pax Christi Maine, and USM student groups.
