We are privileged to have this distinction. and we must fulfill our responsibility. If we do not. we lose respect internationally for our complacency. Second. Haiti is crucial for American selfinterest because it is geographically located in our own precious hemisphere. only 80 miles from our shores. The most obvious way in which we are affected by the chaos in Haiti is by looking at the refugee crisis felt by the State of Florida. I know that Representative MEEK can testify to this fact. Third. earlier this year. the United States Government ruled that boats with Haitians seeking freedom in our countries should be returned to their homeland.