Erik's Point of View

It is both rejuvenating and sobering to be back in Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic. After a 2:30AM wake up for a long day of traveling, and two days of logistical prep work for this week’s PhotoVoice (FotoVoz) project, I finally have some time to sit and reflect. This year, I am working in Severet, a different HHI partner community from the one in which I did research last year. Severet is more rural, less densely populated, and a bit more tranquil, perhaps due to its remoteness. Today we met and worked with the participants so that they could be as effective as possible in documenting their lives through the use of photography. Despite a few last minute hiccups, the discussions and trainings went off without any issues, which has filled me with a unique sense of excitement and success. The community members themselves showed an outstanding enthusiasm to participate and to work toward a better future for their communities, an enthusiasm that, with the proper support, resources, cooperation, and respect, will be the engine of change over time. I think I can speak for the group, and I most certainly can say for myself, that beyond any doubt, the fall semester’s energy and diligence has resurfaced and redoubled here on the north coast of the DR. Tomorrow’s work can’t come soon enough.

Many of the same problems persist in Pancho Mateo, but new developments, both literally and culturally, have appeared. Chronic disease, water, income, food, and other major structural issues continue to plague the community, but additionally, a new housing development has sprung up in what was once a vacant field in Pancho Mateo. The apartment complex is mysterious; no one from the government or a contracting company has come to literally next-door Pancho Mateo to explain the development. Thus rumors and conjectures have sprung up. Perhaps the government is using it to buy votes for the upcoming election. Perhaps it is an affordable housing project. Perhaps it is meant to serve as temporary housing for those displaced by floods or other dangers. No one knows for sure, and everyone is looking for answers. On a massively positive note, Willy (an old friend from last year’s trip), and several other young (late teens, early 20’s) have formed a work group to advocate for and acquire access to clean water for Pancho Mateo. Their plan is well thought out, based in research and facts, and best of all, is motivated by a desire to improve life in the community. I thought to myself, “this is the community-driven action that development NGOs dream about” as Willy explained the steps of the plan, their progress, and how they are unwavering in enacting change, and employing their strength, creativity, connectedness, and drive for the good of Pancho Mateo. More to come from all fronts, and from the group members themselves. 

-- Erik