INQ-300 | Haiti and Us

Full Title: Haiti and Us

Topic Description:

Though Haiti is one of our closest neighbors and our policies affect its citizens in almost every aspect of their lives, most Americans know precious little about the nation. Its disastrous 2010 earthquake hurled it into our media spotlight for a spell; suddenly anyone could tell you one thing about Haiti: “It’s the poorest country in the western hemisphere.” Anderson Cooper, Sean Penn, and Wyclef Jean flashed images at us, and we sent money to the agencies that rang most convincing in our ears. But then what? Because Haiti’s current conditions can be understood only by first understanding its extraordinary history, the energy poured into “helping Haiti” could be far more effective were it better informed. Haiti’s complex past and present begs analysis from multiple disciplinary perspectives, so you can bring your own knowledge and skills to the table as we work together to better understand the issues and begin framing approaches to “aid” that could be more promising. In addition, this course will offer a fascinating glimpse into the relations between the New and Old Worlds, the legacy of colonialism and slavery in the Americas, and the story of a remarkably courageous and creative people.

Counts as Global? No

Topic Approved: December 2012