Christian Nonprofit Worker Freed from Abduction in Haiti Thanks Supporters and Extends Olive Branch to Captors
Alix Dorsainvil, a Christian nonprofit worker in Haiti, has been freed from captivity and expressed her gratitude to all those who supported her and marched for her release. Dorsainvil was abducted on July 27 from the campus of El Roi Haiti Outreach International, where she works. In a message uploaded to YouTube on Aug. 17, she thanked everyone who stood up for her and her daughter.
Speaking in Haitian Creole with English subtitles, Dorsainvil also mentioned her captors, who remain unidentified. No arrests have been made in connection with the case. Dorsainvil and her daughter were released unharmed on Aug. 8.
During her time in captivity, Dorsainvil received encouragement from fellow Haitians and the message of support from the people of Duvivier who were marching for her. She stated that this support meant a great deal to her during such a difficult time.
Furthermore, Dorsainvil offered an olive branch to her captors. She assured them that her words during captivity were sincere and not manipulative. Dorsainvil emphasized that the clinic’s doors are always open to them or anyone in need of medical assistance, without any prejudice.
Although she understands that her offer may not currently be viewed as a possibility by her assailants, Dorsainvil expressed her willingness to care for them without prejudice and welcome them with open arms.
The abduction of Dorsainvil sparked outrage in Haiti and worldwide. Thousands of Haitians came together, risking their lives to march for her and the release of other captives. The El Roi organization expressed its gratitude to the many people and communities in Haiti that offered support during this challenging time.
The group also acknowledged the assistance of private and public sector partners and resources in navigating this crisis, singling out Concilium Inc., a faith-based global security ministry, for providing critical guidance and support throughout the recovery process. Key representatives from US law enforcement and the State Department were commended for their tireless efforts behind the scenes in support of Dorsainvil and her family.
Haiti has experienced significant turmoil and escalating gang violence since the assassination of former president Jovenel Moïse in July 2021, exacerbated by a devastating earthquake the following month. Kidnappings, which often involve US citizens, have become commonplace, with local police lacking the necessary resources to effectively respond to such incidents.
As a result, the US State Department issued a do not travel advisory for Haiti last month and ordered nonemergency government employees and their families to leave the country due to rampant gang violence and attacks targeting US travelers. Americans were urged to vacate at the earliest opportunity using commercial or privately available transportation options.
While ransom negotiations frequently occur during kidnappings, it is unclear whether any ransom was paid in securing the release of Alix Dorsainvil and her child.
Dorsainvil acknowledged the profound emotional impact that events like these leave on victims, even after they are released. She stated in her YouTube message that such experiences create lasting scars in their hearts.
The release of Alix Dorsainvil brings hope for a brighter future for her and her family, and serves as a reminder of the resilience and unity of communities in Haiti during times of crisis.
