Sowing the seeds of justice: the work of a Farmer

What and So What? In a country torn by political and social violence, Haiti is a home to residents who do not only suffer financially but physically and emotionally. As the only country in the Western Hemisphere that can be characterized with “extreme human suffering”, its people have seen their fair share of violence and hardship. However, with the help of a doctor from Harvard Medical School, a light has been shed on a country long kept in the dark. Farmer believes that it is crucial to address the systemic issues and larger social matrix, structures and conditions. Political violence and AIDS are two of the leading causes of death in the country (Farmer 40). It is under these conditions that its citizens attempt to provide a life for themselves and their struggling families. Living conditions in the country side provide little to no protection from the elements, provide unstable accessibility to food, water, and employment. These conditions drive young people to the city where many find that the answers to their prayers are no where to be found. Many work domestic jobs but the act of non-voluntary sexual activity has led to an outbreak of AIDS, a disease that has taken the lives of many in Haiti (Farmer 39). Farmer believes that social changes must be met in order to change the course of human suffering. It is critical to understand the happenings of this country and the actions made by policymakers if there is any hope in creating a change for the impoverished. Farmer states, “To understand the relationship between structural violence and human rights, it is necessary to avoid reductionistic analyses” (43). He continues by demonstrating that this relationship relies on the axis of gender, “race” or ethnicity, and other forms of oppression. Being aware of cultural differences plays a part in understanding human suffering.

Now What? In Paul Farmer’s work, he witnesses the hardships of the local residents of Haiti. He sees their pain and opens his heart to their stories. He heals their physical and emotional wounds, one patient at a time. For my community partner experience, it is crucial to be open to the ideas and thoughts of the students at San Rafael High. It is through their perspective that I can gain a better understanding of the struggles of a low income household. They have education at the forefront of their minds in hopes of changing their lives for the better. I want to be able to relate to the students and help them through the hardships of home so that school becomes a safe haven. The education and political system of America have not been beneficial for the students in our community. They must suffer from the decisions made by others far before it was their time to take on responsibility, much like the young adults of Haiti. This structural violence has not been kind to them, but by taking a moment to listen to their thoughts and stories, the power of change transfers hands to us, the listeners. It then becomes our part to let those who do not have a voice a chance to speak.