(2010-1002-F) Delegation to Haiti, September 17-18, 1994

The materials in FOIA 2010-1002-F are a selective body of documents responsive to the topic of the FOIA. Researchers should consult the archivist about related materials. In September of 1991, Haitian Army General Raoul Cedras and other military leaders successfully led a coup which ousted Haitian President Jean-Bertrand Aristide. At the time United States policy was to return a democratically elected government to power and address human rights violations associated with this coup regime. In order to avoid a potential invasion of Haiti in 1994, President Clinton sent a delegation consisting of former President Jimmy Carter, General Colin Powell, and Senator Sam Nunn to the Caribbean country in mid-September of 1994. The agreement negotiated by Carter, Powell, and Nunn contained several related components: It set a date for the removal of General Cedras and other coup leaders from power. The agreement also allowed for a United States troop presence without the invasion of Haiti. Responsive Subject Files primarily consist of letters to President Clinton concerning the September 17- 18, 1994 delegation to Haiti. The authors of such letters include Haitian coalitions, individual citizens, political leaders, relief agencies, religious leaders, religious organizations, and veterans’ organizations. Many of these letters discuss the strengths or the weaknesses of this delegation’s agreement. Clippings, memos, press releases, and reports discussing the status of economic sanctions against Haiti also refer to this diplomatic mission. Notes to President Clinton regard General Cedras and the September 17-18, 1994 delegation. Responsive documents located within the Staff and Office File include letters, talking points, and administrative paperwork related to travel. The talking points for President Clinton concern the agreement negotiated by President Carter, Senator Nunn, and General Powell. A letter to President Clinton from former Representative Walter Fauntroy concerns a mediation team for Haiti. Records of the Airlift Operations show the billable costs to the White House for transportation related to the trip. National Security Council documents related to the trip include email, cables, memoranda, and correspondence to the President. The open cables discuss public statements related to the Carter Mission from other countries as well as approved talking points. E-mail are related to legislative updates, administrative paperwork, and updates on the situation from the public sector. Open Records Management documents are primarily related to the opinion on Capitol Hill. Researchers interested in Haiti should also consult 2006-0650-F and 2006-0651-F.