LIHEDE's Introduction Letter to Rev. JESSE JACKSON

December 20, 2005

Rev. JESSE JACKSON

National President

Rainbow Coalition

Chicago, Illinois

Dear Rev. Jackson:

The officers and members of the Liberian History, Education and Development, Inc. (LIHEDE) bring you sincere greetings and best wishes in the Name of our Lord Jesus Christ.

The purpose of this letter is to introduce our association, get more acquainted with the Rainbow Coalition humanitarian work and to foster link of cooperation. As stated in the attached brochure, we as professionals and citizens of Liberia and likewise being sons and daughters of God it is our vision that faith-based programs can help cure Liberia’s social ills. Being realistic with our status as a war-torn nation, Liberia’s challenges are huge and can not be handled by only the newly elected democratic government neither by Liberians alone.

It is against this backdrop that LIHEDE is forging networking relations with international humanitarian organizations and institutions such as Rainbow Coalition in the implementation of LIHEDE’s programs. LIHEDE has three program areas, namely: the agroforestry pilot project which is the entry point as it is to provide employment opportunities/livelihood, food; promote ecotourism; and generate income to sustain the operations of the education program. Also, agroforestry pilot project is to help heal denuded land through reforestation. The health-development relationship is another major concern of LIHEDE, particularly malaria which claims more lives than AIDS. Better health contributes to economic development of Liberia. This is one practical way to break out of poverty, if not all, at least some Liberian families.

Rev. Jackson, it is with deep respect that we look to you and your organization for partnership in Liberia’s development, considering the historical ties among us Blacks. We have seen your handiwork not only in Liberia during the bitter days of our national history (civil war) but also your dedication to the maintenance of global peace, prosperity, and freedom for the less fortunate people. It is our hope to strengthen such kinship through better collaboration on any of our programs/projects.  Sir, we are very willing to submit to you a detailed proposal for your appraisal.

As you know, we need to create a national blueprint for the reconstruction and development of Liberia, not just for political aspect, but more so to strengthen the education, economic, agricultural, cultural, institutional, media and social order of the country. Together we can create a great legacy of immeasurable treasure of knowledge and moral character for Liberian youths and the next generation of Liberians.

Again, LIHEDE looks forward to hearing and meeting with you.

Respectfully yours,

SYRULWA SOMAH, PhD

Executive Director

 Search Website