Secretary Clinton's Remarks on the Six Month Commemoration of Haiti Earthquake

Six Month Commemoration of Haiti Earthquake

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

July 12, 2010

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It has been six months since a 7.0 magnitude earthquake devastated Haiti and claimed the lives of 230,000 people. Hundreds of thousands more were injured and left homeless. In Haiti’s hour of greatest need the international community responded. The United States and more than 140 nations provided humanitarian support, mounting one of the largest rescue and relief efforts in history. On this six month commemoration, we pause to remember all those who lost their lives or loved ones in this tragedy.
Members of the State Department and USAID family were among the dead, and today we honor their service and sacrifice. Our thoughts and prayers are with their families, friends and colleagues. I also salute everyone -- diplomats, development workers and private citizens -- who continue to serve in Haiti, helping the country build back better.
Over the last six months, the Haitian people have again shown their resilience and strength. Their efforts continue to inspire us all. Together we have worked to help children return to school, to ensure that the 1.5 million people who were left homeless have emergency shelter materials while we stand-up transitional and permanent houses, and to make certain that those in need of medical care receive it.
The United States is committed to aligning our investments with the needs of the people and Government of Haiti. We have joined international partners, private sector actors, and NGOs in working together through the Interim Haiti Recovery Commission to help empower the Haitian people and support their efforts.
Six months later, our resolve to stand with the people of Haiti for the long term remains undiminished. We are committed to helping them realize the Haitian vision for a better nation.