“Our government is upside down. National Deputies and Senators control all the resources. None of these reach the local community.” We heard this refrain from leaders in every community the Faith in Action delegation visited. OPODNE leaders are working to…
Haiti was once able to feed its own people. Because of climate change, drought, corrupt land laws, and foreign intervention, Haiti now provides only 20% of its own food (rice) needs. OPODNE is writing a new narrative, building sustainable agricultural…
We are celebrating the life of Fr. Michael J. Mandala, S.J. who moved from this world on Saturday, September 9. Michael has been involved with PICO/Faith in Action organizing since 1974 as an organizer, pastor, and advisor. Mike served on the…
Oscar Romero will become the first Salvadoran saint when he is canonized on October 14. He was gunned down while saying Mass on March 24, 1980, after saying “one must not love oneself so much as to avoid getting involved…
Rwanda: Last month, Mumeya leaders laid the foundation for a new elementary school in one of the five villages making up the organizing community. This month they organized the entire community to construct the walls. It is their goal to…
Rwanda: Mumeya leaders know that the future for rural children is at risk without a quality education. Their latest effort is to lay the foundation for a new elementary school. Presently, hundreds of students walk for an hour to attend…
In July, the Faith in Action delegation met with Bishop Alvaro Ramazzini from the Huehuetenango Diocese to explore re-starting organizing in Guatemala. Bishop Ramazzini has been a long time, prominent leader on issues critical to the poor and indigenous people…
The first revolution 200 years ago resulted in the transition from a slave-centered colony of France to an independent nation of free people in Haiti. According to Haiti scholar, Robert Fatton, Jr., a second revolution is under way to transition…
El Salvador: Jose and the families in Santa Maria de Ostuma get water delivered to their home only one day a week. This is common in rural areas across El Salvador. In the midst of this severe water crisis right…
Haiti: A delegation is traveling to Haiti in mid-August to witness and support the work of OPODNE leaders. The delegation will meet with leaders from Capotille, Caracol, Terrier Rouge, Grand Bassin, Mombin Crochu and Mont Organise who have launched self-help…
