74. Roots of Injustice in Haiti: A Conversation with Ron and Carla Bluntschli

At the time of recording, the country of Haiti is in the midst of a socioeconomic and political crisis.  In this episode, Forrest talks with Ron and Carla Bluntschli, Americans who have lived and served in Haiti for nearly four decades. They share their views on the roots of the unfolding humanitarian crisis, and also offer insights about environmental issues that are only becoming worse in the midst of increasing conflict and growing poverty. Importantly, their foundation—called N a sonje—works with internationals to promote awareness and understanding of Haitian history and culture. At the same time, they work with Haitians to promote restorative ecological practices.

Guest: Ron and Carla Bluntschli 

• Co-founders, N a Sonje Foundation 
• N a Sonje Vèt (“We Will Remember Green”) 

Mentions: 

• 1991 Haitian coup d’état: Wikipedia, Caribbean National Weekly article 
• Agroforestry 
• Soil in Haiti 
• Haitian Creole: language, history 
• How Creation Works: Science for Everyday Earthkeepers course 
• Deforestation in Haiti: United Nations article, effects on mass extinction, rates and statistics 
• USAID reforestation (January 2020) 
• Plastic pollution in Haiti: UN News article 
• Breadfruit 
• American rice and Haiti: BBC article, Cornell paper 

Keywords: Haiti, gangs, refugees, government, immigration, poverty, rural, cities, agriculture, farming, church, agroforestry, soil, Haitian Creole, ecology, deforestation, trees, climate, plastic, pollution, education, slavery, deportation, United States of America, reparations

Find us on our website: Earthkeepers
Support the Earthkeepers podcast
Check out the Ecological Disciple