September 24, 2001
OPPORTUNITY OF THE WEEK
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Healing Body and Spirit
Over a decade ago, the Dominican government received international attention for their negative treatment of Haitian sugar cane workers in the Republic. Worldwide concern for both human and labor rights resulted in the government deporting all Haitian workers in 1991. The situation has improved in many ways, yet thousands of Haitians continue to be discriminated against in Dominican society, doing heavy, manual work for low pay.
The Dominican sugar industry expanded after WW2 and Haitians—nearby and available to work for reduced wages—were contracted to work during the sugar harvest. Currently, thousands work in the harvest each year and conditions on the plantations continue to be deplorable. Workers are severely undernourished and illnesses abound.
In an effort to physically, emotionally, and spiritually minister to these mistreated workers, the Haitian Missionary Baptist Association (HMBC) in the Dominican Republic has developed a preventative medical care program. By purchasing medical supplies and educating workers on various medical issues, HMBC hopes to bring healing and solidarity to a community in need.
$5,000 is needed this year for American Baptist International Ministries to fully meet our commitment here.
The Dominican Republic shares the same island with Haiti. Our mission speaker in October has just been on that week-long mission to Haiti and will tell you the rest of the island story at our Mission special in October.
Monetary resources are in demand around the world, but only energy and effort are required from the Christians of Juneau County to make the same difference in our area. At First Baptist we’d love to join with you to get this done.
FIRST BAPTIST CHURCH
201 Oak St.
Mauston, WI 53948-1333 608-8474555
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