“Much has recently been said about the clearing of the backlands and how it will affect the farmers’ future livelihoods. These farmers are among the poorest citizens of the community. Far less, if not anything at all has been said about the six-year trauma being experienced by kids and young people in Buxton since 2002,” ACDA said in a press release yesterday. ACDA said too “those who relentlessly call for ‘One People, One Nation, One Destiny’ and call for national reconciliation should speak through action.”
In a letter written to ACDA, the Buxton/Foulis Neighbourhood Democratic Council appealed for food hampers, special medical attention and trauma aid “and to take our voices beyond Buxton”. ACDA asserted that the indifference to the African community is evident noting that while a fund was established for survivors and their relatives from the Lusignan killings, none has been established for affected villagers at Bartica.
“There has been no acknowledgement of the suffering of the children of Buxton,” the statement contended. ACDA said no one can deny the psychological terror that pervades the psyche of the children of Buxton, adding that they need long-term psychological help and support. “No one can deny that this proud village is under siege, the result of a criminal economy and its aftermath,” it added.
The group said since Easter is a time of rebirth, it will make every effort this week to appeal to businesses, the diplomatic and general community to support its efforts.
ACDA said interested persons can call telephone 225-8420 for more information and that a bank account has been set up for the relief programme.
