I’ve seen numerous references both on TV and online to the “looting” going on in Haiti. And I have to say, it really pisses me off… Here’s a population that has just seen their city virtually destroyed; there is no water, electricity, food, phone service; bodies are piled in the streets; survivors are homeless and likely injured… And many are going into stores and taking things like food, pots and pans, fabric, clothing. “Looting”? Is that really what this is? It sounds more like “trying to stay alive.”
There’s a much better and more cogently written piece on this same thing at The Awl. I recommend it. And I agree with the use of the term “salvaging” to describe most of what is going on in Haiti…
It's a Complete Outrage 