Fortunately, we are all now part of a global wired voice, made possible by online social networking. Within moments of the disaster, messages started pouring in on websites such as Twitter and FaceBook. Twitterfall displays real time streaming of messages as they “fall” from the top of the webpage. In the early days of online social networking it was used primarily for, well, social networking. However, it is evolving into something much more profound. It is becoming an efficient, instantaneous method for sharing information seamlessly across multiple networks.
Of course, not everyone in an area in crisis – especially one as impoverished as Haiti – has access to such technology (yet). But with innovative programs such as One Laptop Per Child, it is possible to provide a rugged portable computer with wireless capability for as little as $100. Programs such as this could not only expand availability of technology such as Twitter, but will open opportunities for education never possible before – schools with little or no books could access literally thousands of books and courses electronically. And with increasing availability of mobile devices that can access the internet, laptops may not be necessary for tapping into this vast resource.
It is estimated that some 200,000 lives were lost in this terrible earthquake. Our thoughts and prayers are with these families as they struggle towards recovery. This morning's news of another earthquake 35 miles from Port-au-Prince, albeit milder than last week's earthquake, highlights the ongoing need for assistance.
Good news from a colleague with family in Haiti:
According to a colleague of mine with family in Haiti, the “Red Cross provides the most accurate count of lost lives during the earthquake. About communication with relatives: I tried calling my family’s cell phones last Tuesday and Wednesday, but no answer. I also sent a Facebook message - again no reply. On Thursday, my sister in Haiti was able to call us. It seems like it is easier for Haiti to call the US than the other way around. One of the problems with social networking is that places that provide this kind of service to individuals might have been damaged. It would be more successful, as you pointed out, if more individuals had their own laptops.”
Certainly we are not yet at the stage in which online social networking is global and broadly accessible - a "digital divide" remains. However, many families found comfort using this technology when traditional modes of communication failed.
Communication is becoming restored to this region, and the US has responded rapidly and efficiently to provide support. The important role that online social networking played in the first few hours after the earthquake illustrates that we are all part of a global voice. How we use this voice is a measure of our humanity.
Note: Former Presidents Clinton and Bush are leading an effort for private fund-raising to support the Haitian people in the aftermath of this natural disaster. Please consider giving whatever you can to this important cause (Click here), or to the charity of your choice that can provide aid to Haiti.