ROANOKE TIMES
Copyright (c) 1996, Roanoke Times
DATE: Sunday, January 21, 1996 TAG: 9601220109
SECTION: NATIONAL/INTERNATIONAL PAGE: A-11 EDITION: METRO
DATELINE: TABARRE, HAITI
Jean-Bertrand Aristide married his legal adviser Saturday.
The 42-year-old Aristide exchanged vows with Mildred Trouillot, 33, a New York-born Haitian attorney, before about 500 guests including U.S. generals, Haitian Cabinet ministers and Roman Catholic priests and bishops.
Aristide's marriage drew disapproval from a public that lionized him. Many Haitians are upset that their hero, a dark-skinned descendant of African slaves like most peasants here, chose a bride they classify as a patrician, lighter-skinned foreigner.
``She's from the upper class. She doesn't know how we suffer,'' said carpenter Gesner Michel, 34.
Much of Aristide's popularity was rooted in the fact that he gave up the priesthood to fight for Haiti's freedom. His decision to marry has led some to question his dedication.
- Associated Press
LENGTH: Short : 28 linesby CNB