On Tuesday, December 30, 2025, to celebrate the end of the year alongside people living with disabilities, the Office of the Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities (BSEIPH), under the leadership of Secretary of State Gérard Joseph, organized a cultural, recreational, and humanitarian event. This event included musical performances, a catering service, and the distribution of food kits for people with disabilities.

Several musical groups traveled to the event to enhance the festive atmosphere of this day, initially planned for approximately 1,000 beneficiaries, depending on available logistical and financial resources.

The day began in a friendly and welcoming atmosphere. In the morning, bowls of soup were distributed to participants, while a hot meal was being prepared. However, as the day progressed, the turnout far exceeded expectations, with the number of participants increasing significantly to nearly 3,000 people.

This exceptional turnout unfortunately led to an imbalance between available resources and expressed needs. The number of food kits proved insufficient to meet the needs of all participants.

Taking advantage of the discontent and frustration of some, ill-intentioned individuals caused disturbances, even going so far as to set fire to tents and chairs set up in the institution's courtyard, thus causing regrettable material damage.

Gérard Joseph emphasizes "This unfortunate incident should not, however, overshadow the fundamental objective of this initiative: to serve, support, and include people with disabilities in social and national life. It is imperative to remember that division, when fueled by petty interests, has never borne lasting fruit. It only breeds destruction, discouragement, and the annihilation of the efforts made by those who work, often in difficult conditions, for the well-being of all."

Faced with the challenges confronting our society, unity, solidarity, and a sense of responsibility must prevail over violence and manipulation. Only in an atmosphere of dialogue, mutual respect, and genuine collaboration can we build strong, sustainable, and beneficial inclusive actions for the entire community, especially for the most vulnerable.

The future of inclusion in Haiti will not be built on division, but on the union of forces, consciences, and hearts in service of the common good.

IH/ iciHaiti