Teacher's note: We urgently recommend teachers review all materials before showing to your class — the lead video for this lesson contains extremely violent and disturbing imagery.
SUMMARY
In Haiti’s capital, the gangs are in control and trying to overthrow an absent government. While the prime minister was abroad, gangs closed the airport, and he has been unable to return. Meanwhile, Secretary of State Blinken is talking to regional leaders about finding a different political solution. Nick Schifrin talks with Robert Fatton Jr. of the University of Virginia for more perspective.
View the transcript of the story.
News alternative: Check out recent segments from the NewsHour, and choose the story you’re most interested in watching. You can make a Google doc copy of discussion questions that work for any of the stories here.
Key terms
transitional government — a temporary government usually formed during a period of instability
WARM UP QUESTIONS
- Who is Antony Blinken, and what is his role in government?
- Why did Blinken emphasize the need for a leadership transition in Haiti?
- When did Prime Minister Ariel Henry assume power?
- What are some of the current challenges faced by Haiti?
- How have gangs pressured Prime Minister Ariel Henry to resign?
FOCUS QUESTIONS
What do you think are some ways the U.S. and larger international community can help bring stability to Haiti?
Media literacy: How is the role of the U.S. highlighted in this story?
Alternative: See, Think, Wonder: What did you notice? What did the story make you think? What would you want to find out more about?
FOR MORE
What students can do:
Watch the Student Reporting Labs video and answer the following question: How can increased gun violence take a toll on a community?
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