I had a dream in which I was teleported back to Ayiti circa 1486 and I had an affair with Chief Anacaona.
Yeah I'm Haitian? U Ain't Know??? (Haiti Baby)
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I had a dream in which I was teleported back to Ayiti circa 1486 and I had an affair with Chief Anacaona.
USA 3-0 Haiti (5 Jul, 2022) Game Analysis - ESPN (UK)
Expert recap and game analysis of the United States vs. Haiti Concacaf W Championship game from 5 July 2022 on ESPN (UK).
I didnt know she was Haitian. Cool.
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The Promise of Pyer Moss
Kerby Jean-Raymond was one of fashion’s most celebrated young designers. Then what happened?
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Future 15: Meet Kerby Jean-Raymond, A Designer With A Vision For Fashion That's Socially Aware | Essence
Meet Kerby Jean-Raymond, A Designer With A Vision For Fashion That's Socially Aware
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Bonbon Lakay | Dous makos
Bonbon Lakay has real original Haitian dous makos fudge for sale with nationwide shipping in the United States.
Have you been to Cali, Colombia to see Alexander Pinon statue?
They have a memorial just for him. I'm going down there either in the summer or in the fall to check it out.
They have a memorial just for him. I'm going down there either in the summer or in the fall to check it out.
I love seeing black people no matter the nationality stick together. I remember being at Anhvee in Sosúa one time and this white boy got stupid biligerent...man them Dominicans and Haitians yoked that blanquito up so quick, put him in a full nelson, and threw his ass right in the calle. His wife or girl was yelling "put him down" and you know what...they threw her ass out too.
no fucks given and partied even harder.
Marleine Bastien — simplygoodpizza
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Celebrities You Probably Didn’t Know Are Haitian | Haitian Music Archives
David Jude Jolicoeur (born September 21, 1968, in Brooklyn, New York), also known under the stage name Trugoy the Dove and more recently Dave, is an American rapper, producer, and one third of groundbreaking hip hop trio De La Soul. Jolicoeur, Vincent Mason and Kelvin Mercer were friends who...
www.opamusic.com
Trugoy from De La Soul transitioned
RIP. Condolences to him and his family. Hip hop lost a pioneer today.
www.bgol.us
Afro-Haitians - Wikipedia
en.wikipedia.org
Afro-Haitians or Black Haitians are Haitians who trace their full or partial ancestry to Sub-Saharan Africa. They form the largest racial group in Haiti and together with other Afro-Caribbean groups, the largest racial group in the region.
The majority of Afro-Haitians are descendants of enslaved Africans brought to the island by the Spanish Empire and the Kingdom of France to work on plantations. Since the Haitian Revolution, Afro-Haitians have been the largest racial group in the country, accounting for 85% of the population in the early 21st century. The remaining 15% of the population is made up of mixed persons (mixed African and European descent) and other minor groups (European, Arab, and Asian descent).[2]
Origins[edit]
The African people of Haiti derived from various areas, spanning from Senegal to the Congo. Most of which were brought from West Africa, with a considerable number also brought from Central Africa. Some of these groups include those from the former Kongo kingdom (Kongo),Benin (Ewe[3] and Yoruba) and Togo land.[4] Others in Haiti were brought from Senegal,[5] Guinea (imported by the Spanish since the sixteenth century and then by the French), Sierra Leone, Windward Coast, Angola, Cameroon, Nigeria, Ghana, Togo, and Southeast Africa (such as the Bara tribesmen of Madagascar, who were brought to Haiti in the eighteenth century).[6] Haitian culture is very tied to West African culture, especially that of pre-colonialism Benin, Haitian Vodou mostly has origins from the original West African Vodun of Benin and the French-based Haitian Creole language has influences from several African languages including the Fon language. At the time of the Haitian Revolution war, an event that involved the expulsion of many whites (mostly French) in Haiti, many of the blacks in Haiti were African-born and had no non-African admixture. This was because the average African slave in colonial Haiti had a short life span and France continuously imported thousands of Africans yearly to keep the slave population up, by 1790 there were nearly 600,000 slaves, outnumbering whites about 20 to 1.
Demography[edit]
Although Haiti averages approximately 250 people per square kilometre (650 per sq mi.), its population is concentrated most heavily in urban areas, coastal plains, and valleys. Haiti's population was about 9.8 million according to UN 2008 estimates,[7] with half of the population being under 20 years old.[8] The first formal census, taken in 1950, showed a population of 3.1 million.[9]
According to The World Factbook, 95% of Haitians are primarily of African descent; the remaining 5% of the population are mostly of mixed-race and European background,[1] and a number of other ethnicities.[10][11]
Culture[edit]
Kanaval in Jacmel, Haiti, February 2014
Culture, religion and social organization are the result in Haiti of a process of syncretism between French and African traditions, mainly Dahomey-Nigerian. A small minority cultural practice in Haiti is Haitian Vodou. This probably originated in Benin, although there are strong elements added from the Congo of Central Africa and many African nations are represented in the liturgy of Sèvis Lwa. A generally ignored but significant element is that of the Taino people, the indigenous people of Hispaniola. The Tainos were influential in the belief system of Haitian Vodou, especially in the Petro cult, a religious group with no counterpart on the African continent. Characterized by the worship of the loa, the sect has influences from Native American folklore zemis. The entire northern area of Haiti is influenced by the practices of the Congo. In the north, these are often called Rites Congo or Lemba. In the south, the Congo influence is called Petwo (Petro). Many loa are of Congolese origin, such as Basimbi and Lemba.[12]
Polygyny persists alongside Catholic marriages. The dances and some forms of recreation tie in with African activities. The preparation of beans is done in the style of Western Africa. Popular literature retains fables and other forms that are expressed in the vernacular. Economic activities are typical of Western culture and clothing tends to be European, but the scarf worn by women over the head is typical of clothing worn throughout West Africa.[citation needed]
Two languages are spoken in Haiti. French is taught in schools and known by about 42% of the population,[13] but spoken by a minority of black and biracial residents, in Port-au-Prince and other cities. Haitian Creole, with roots in French, Spanish, Taino. Portuguese, English and African languages, is a language with dialectal forms in different regions. It is spoken throughout the country, but is used extensively in rural areas.[14]
The music of Haiti is heavily influenced by the rhythms which came from Africa with the slaves. Two of these rhythms come directly from the harbour and the Congo; a third rhythm, the "petro", developed on the island during the colonial era. All are part of the rhythms used in Vodou ceremonies. These rhythms have created a musical style, rasin, where percussion is the most important musical instrument, and despite being closely related to religion has become a popular kind of folk music. Another type of music, which arises spontaneously from people with hand-held instruments, is twoubadou, a musical style that has endured to this day. Currently the music heard in Haiti's Compas genre is a little softer than the merengue, and combines Congo rhythms with European and Caribbean influences. Konpa is the most current version of this rhythm
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I’m gonna drop some knowledge on y’all real quick that I’m not sure many people know.
The elected president before Papa Doc, I can’t remember his name for some reason. Well, he discovered oil in Haiti and wanted to start drilling. The U.S. said he’ll no, and wanted to send their guys to drill the oil. The Haitian president declined. Wanna guess what happened next?
The elected president before Papa Doc, I can’t remember his name for some reason. Well, he discovered oil in Haiti and wanted to start drilling. The U.S. said he’ll no, and wanted to send their guys to drill the oil. The Haitian president declined. Wanna guess what happened next?
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John Legend Addresses Trump’s Attack on Haitian Immigrants in Singer’s Ohio Hometown: “How About We Love One Another?”
During the presidential debate Tuesday, the former president falsely claimed that Haitian immigrants in Springfield were eating cats and dogs.
www.hollywoodreporter.com
Wyclef Jean Speaks Out About Trump Campaign's Accusations About Haitian Immigrants
Wyclef Jean has released a statement in response to Donald Trump's unfounded claims that Haitian immigrants are eating wild animals.
hiphopdx.com
Wyclef Jean Responds to Donald Trump 'Haitian Immigrants' Comments: 'Stop Racist Messages'
Wyclef Jean is not amused by Donald Trump's bizarre debate tangent about Haitian immigrants supposedly eating household pets -- and tells TMZ Hip Hop that America needs to strictly focus on the facts this election!!!
www.tmz.com
Wyclef Jean Supports Fellow Haitians Following Trump’s False Pet-Eating Claim: ‘Good Neighbors and Good People’
Haitian native Wyclef Jeans supported his fellow Haitians after Donald Trump amplified false pet-eating rumors during this week's presidential debate.
www.billboard.com
‘RHOBH’ Star Garcelle Beauvais Condemns Trump-Vance Conspiracy Theories, Urges Haitian Community to Vote: “We Need to Stop This Chaos”
"Staying silent in the face of racism and hate is something that I refuse to do," said the Bravo star in a social media video following false claims about Haitian immigrants that the Republican presidential candidate amplified on the national debate stage.
www.hollywoodreporter.com
Polish Haitians: Poles & The Slav(e) Revolt
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Polish Culture
Polish Haitians are a unique group of individuals with a rich heritage reflecting the intermingling of Polish and Haitian cultures – two cultures you wouldn’t expect crossing paths.
This heritage is the result of historical events, including the involvement of Polish legions and soldiers during the Haitian Revolution and the enslavement of Polish individuals during that time. Today, many Polish descendants in Haiti continue to embrace their Polish heritage, and the city of Częstochowa holds a special place in the hearts of Polish Haitians.
One of the most exciting aspects of Polish Haitian heritage is the influence of the Polish language and surnames on Haitian culture. While French and Creole are the primary languages spoken in Haiti, many individuals with Polish surnames have made essential contributions to society in Haiti. Additionally, the Creole language has been influenced by Polish, creating a unique fusion of European and Caribbean cultures.
Despite the challenges faced by Polish descendants, they have persevered and contributed to the development of Haitian society. Today, many cultural events and organizations celebrate Polish Haitian heritage, highlighting the importance of recognizing the unique contributions of this group to both European and Caribbean societies.
Table of Contents
- The Historical Connection: Polish Soldiers in the Haitian Revolution
- The Polish Contribution
- The Poles Change Sides
- From Enslavement to Freedom: Polish Descendants in Haiti
- Częstochowa: A Connection Point for Polish Haitians
- The Influence of Polish Surnames in Haiti
- The Creole Connection: Language and Identity
- The Significance of Language in Polish Haitian Culture
- Conclusion
The Historical Connection: Polish Soldiers in the Haitian Revolution
The Haitian Revolution, spanning from 1791 to 1804, stands as a monumental event in Caribbean history. It marked the birth of the world’s first free black republic, overthrowing the shackles of French colonial rule in Saint-Domingue, now known as Haiti.
This uprising wasn’t just a localised effort; it drew support from unexpected quarters, notably from the Poles.
The Polish Contribution
During this tumultuous period, Poland itself was grappling with its own challenges. Neighbouring empires, including Napoleon’s France and Prussia, partitioned and occupied the nation. Yet, the spirit of freedom and resistance was alive among the Poles. Many Polish soldiers, despite the political turmoil in their homeland, were drawn to the Haitian cause. Their motivation was twofold: they were inspired by the ideals of the French army, and they resonated deeply with the Haitians’ quest for independence, given their own struggles back home.Colonel Jan Henryk Dąbrowski, often hailed as a national hero in Poland, was a seasoned military leader with a reputation for his strategic acumen and unwavering commitment to the cause of freedom. Born in 1755 in the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth, Dąbrowski had a rich military career, having served in various European armies before aligning with Napoleon Bonaparte.
When Napoleon decided to send forces to quell the Haitian Revolution in Saint-Domingue, Dąbrowski and his Polish legions were among those dispatched.
It’s worth noting that Napoleon was quick to dispatch Poles to fight a long way from home. Some say he was quick to do this as he didn’t want to send his French troops so far away to cruch a rebellion, and saw the Poles as somewhat disposable.
The Poles Change Sides
However, upon arriving in the Caribbean and witnessing the brutalities of slavery and the fervour of the Haitian rebels, many Polish soldiers, under Dąbrowski’s tacit approval, began to question their role in suppressing a people fighting for their freedom.This sentiment was particularly poignant given Poland’s own struggles against foreign domination.
Dąbrowski’s interactions with Haitian revolutionary leaders, especially Toussaint L’Ouverture, were marked by mutual respect.
L’Ouverture, recognising the military prowess of the Polish legions and their potential alignment with the Haitian cause, sought to ally.
The two leaders found common ground in their ideals of liberty and the fight against oppression.
Under Dąbrowski’s leadership, many Polish soldiers defected from the French side to join forces with L’Ouverture and the Haitian rebels.
Their combined efforts, blending European military strategies with Haitian guerrilla tactics, posed a formidable challenge to the French forces.
The alliance between the Polish legions and the Haitian rebels was strategic and symbolic. It represented a union of two oppressed peoples from different continents and cultures coming together for freedom.
Jean-Jacques Dessalines, another towering figure in the Haitian Revolution, was well aware of the sacrifices made by the Polish soldiers.
In recognition of their contribution, after Haiti gained its independence, Dessalines declared that the new nation’s Polish soldiers were to be considered Black, granting them the same rights and privileges as native Haitians.
This was a significant gesture, acknowledging the Poles’ role in the fight for Haitian independence and ensuring their place in the annals of Haitian history.
However, the journey of the Polish legionnaires in Haiti was not without its trials. As the tides of war shifted, some of these soldiers were captured and subjected to the very chains of slavery they sought to break for others.
They were enslaved during the course of the revolution, a bitter irony considering their initial mission.
Yet, even in these dire circumstances, the spirit of resilience shone through. Over time, these enslaved Poles and their descendants integrated into Haitian society, contributing to its diverse cultural and social fabric.
From Enslavement to Freedom: Polish Descendants in Haiti
Polish descendants in Haiti have a unique heritage that traces its roots back to Polish individuals who were enslaved during Haiti’s Revolution. These individuals were part of a group of soldiers from the Polish Legions who fought on both the French and Polish sides of the conflict.Some of the soldiers were captured and enslaved by the Haitians, and their descendants are now an integral part of Haitian society. Despite facing significant challenges and discrimination, the descendants of Polish slaves in Haiti have persevered, and many have risen to positions of influence and prominence.
Integration and Influence
Over the subsequent decades, these enslaved Poles and their descendants assimilated into Haitian society. They faced adversity, including discrimination, but their resilience was evident. Over generations, they integrated and significantly influenced Haitian culture and society. Today, their legacy is palpable in various facets of Haitian life. For instance, certain regions in Haiti, like Cazale, are known to have a high concentration of residents with Polish ancestry.
Cazale, a quaint village in Haiti situated approximately 45 miles from Port-au-Prince in the Grand’Anse Department, serves as the country’s primary hub for the Polish community.
Prominent Polish-Haitians
The descendants of these Polish individuals have made notable contributions to Haiti. Many have ascended to influential positions in various fields, from politics to the arts. Their Polish surnames, albeit adapted to the Creole context, are a testament to their enduring legacy.For a deeper understanding of the Polish involvement in the Haitian Revolution, one can refer to “The White Jacobins of Saint Domingue” by Jan Pachonski and Reuel K. Wilson. Additionally, the town of Cazale’s unique history is documented in various anthropological studies, highlighting its Polish-Haitian heritage.
Today, there are estimated to be thousands of Polish descendants in Haiti, and they are recognized as a distinct community within the country. Many have embraced their heritage and actively work to preserve their unique cultural traditions, including music, dance, and cuisine.
While the history of Polish slavery in Haiti is painful, the resilience and determination of the Polish descendants in Haiti is an inspiring example of the human spirit. Their story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of the Revolution and the complex intermingling of cultures that resulted.
The rich history of Polish Haitians is an important part of European and Caribbean cultures and deserves to be celebrated and remembered.
In 1983, Pope John Paul II visited Haiti. He mentioned how the Polish contributed to the slave rebellion leading to Haiti’s independence. It was a great example of Poland’s religion crossing paths with other faiths to remember those who have come before them.
Duvalier selected several Haitian Poles from Haiti’s most populous Polish areas to attend the various ceremonies planned for the Pope’s visit.
Częstochowa: A Connection Point for Polish Haitians
Częstochowa, a city in southern Poland, holds significant cultural ties to Haiti and the Haitian community of Polish Descent. It is known as the birthplace of the Polish Haitian Society, founded in 1986, which fosters cultural exchange and promotes the history and traditions of Haitians of Polish descent.The Haitians, deeply moved by the Poles’ profound devotion to their Matka Boska Częstochowa (Our Lady of Częstochowa), witnessed an intriguing cultural amalgamation.
The revered Polish Catholic figure of Matka Boska Częstochowa transformed into the Haitian Vodou deity Erzulie Dantor, known as a warrior spirit and guardian of women and children.
Erzulie Dantor also referred to as Ezili D’en Tort, is a manifestation of the Erzulie family of spirits in Haitian Vodou, mainly representing the essence of motherhood, especially single motherhood. The most common depiction of Ezili Dantor is believed to have been influenced by the Black Madonna of Częstochowa.
This association is thought to have originated from the icons brought to Haiti by Polish mercenaries employed by Napoleon to quell the Haitian Revolution. However, many of these soldiers chose to settle in Haiti, notably in the town of Cazale.
Every year, Częstochowa hosts the Haitian Festival, celebrating culture and heritage.
The festival provides a platform for Polish Haitians to showcase their music, dance, food, and art, and to connect with each other and the wider community.
Częstochowa is also home to several landmarks highlighting the city’s connection to Haiti. The Museum of Polish Legions, located in the Jasna Góra Monastery, showcases the history of Polish soldiers who fought in the Revolution. The Black Madonna of Częstochowa, a revered Catholic icon, symbolises shared devotion between Polish and Haitian Catholics.
The city’s cultural exchange with Haiti has also led to the formation of the Polish-Haitian Creole language.
The Influence of Polish Surnames in Haiti
Polish surnames have become an integral part of Haitian culture, demonstrating the lasting impact of Haitians of Polish descent on the country’s identity. The presence of Polish surnames in Haiti can be traced back to the 1800s when Polish soldiers and civilians settled there.Today, many Haitians, such as Czartoryski, Walewski, and Krasicki, still bear Polish surnames. These names testify to the enduring legacy of Haitians of Polish background and their contributions to Caribbean society.
Using Polish surnames in Haiti also has cultural significance, as it connects to European culture. Having a Polish surname for many Haitians represents their mixed heritage and unique identity. It reinforces the idea that Haitian culture is a fusion of different cultures, including Polish and African cultures.
While some may argue that using Polish surnames in Haiti is outdated, many Haitians disagree. They see their names as a way to honour their ancestors and maintain their cultural identity. Moreover, preserving Polish surnames in Haiti reminds of the historical connection between Poland and Haiti.
The Significance of Maintaining Polish Surnames
Maintaining Polish surnames in Haiti is essential for preserving the country’s cultural heritage. It is a tangible link between the past and present, allowing Haitians to honour their ancestors and celebrate their unique identity.Furthermore, using Polish surnames in Haiti helps combat cultural erasure. It reinforces the idea that Haitian culture is a fusion of different cultures and that these cultures are worth preserving. It also symbolises resistance against the forces that seek to diminish Haiti’s cultural heritage.
Overall, the influence of Polish surnames in Haiti showcases the enduring legacy of Polish Haitians. It highlights the importance of cultural exchange and the value of preserving cultural heritage for future generations.
The Creole Connection: Language and Identity
The fusion of Polish and Haitian cultures has resulted in a unique heritage and a distinct language. Creole has played an integral role in Polish Haitian culture and identity and is a bridge between European and Caribbean societies.Creole is a language that combines elements of French, Spanish, Portuguese, and African languages. It emerged during the colonial era as a means of communication between European colonizers and enslaved Africans. Over time, it evolved into a distinct language with its own grammar, vocabulary, and syntax.
Haitians of Polish descent have incorporated Creole into their cultural and linguistic identity. The language reflects their ancestors’ experiences and the subsequent intermingling of cultures. It represents the resilience and adaptability of people forced to communicate in a foreign language.
Through the use of Creole, Polish Haitians have preserved their cultural heritage and passed it down to future generations. The language is used in music, literature, and art, and is one of the key markers of their unique identity.
To this day, many Polish Haitians still live in Haiti and are of mixed racial origin. However, some have blonde hair, light eyes, and other European features.
The Significance of Language in Polish Haitian Culture
Language is a pillar of cultural identity, shaping how communities perceive their past, present, and future. For Polish Haitians, Creole isn’t merely a mode of communication; it’s a living testament to their rich ancestry.Creole, a linguistic blend with roots in French, Spanish, Portuguese, and various African languages, emerged as a lingua franca during the colonial era. It facilitated communication between European colonisers and enslaved Africans. Over time, it evolved, absorbing elements from each group it touched, including the Polish.
With their unique historical background, Polish Haitians have infused Creole with memories of their ancestors. The language carries tales of Polish soldiers allying with Haitian rebels and of those who, despite their intentions, found themselves enslaved. These narratives passed down through generations, are a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the Polish Haitian community.
Moreover, Creole serves as a bridge to Africa for Polish Haitians. The linguistic elements borrowed from various African languages are a constant reminder of the diverse African cultures that converged in the Caribbean due to the transatlantic slave trade.
Today, while most Haitians speak Creole, the influence of Polish is subtle yet significant. There are words, phrases, and even certain pronunciation nuances that hint at a Polish origin. These linguistic remnants are especially prevalent in regions with more Polish descendants.
Furthermore, while Creole remains the dominant language, there are pockets within Haiti where Polish words or phrases are used, especially among older generations. These are not full-fledged dialects but rather variations of Creole enriched by Polish linguistic elements.
Conclusion
Polish Haitians, resulting from the blend of European and Caribbean cultures, signify the historical ties between Poland and Haiti. Polish soldiers were pivotal in the Haitian Revolution, and their descendants have shaped Haitian society. Częstochowa is a hub for their heritage, with Polish surnames and Creole language marking their identity. Their contributions to both cultures are noteworthy. Various initiatives uphold their heritage, showcasing the cultural richness they bring to Europe and the Caribbean. Their legacy underscores the strength and versatility of human cultures.
Polish Haitians: Poles & The Slav(e) Revolt - EXPATSPOLAND
Polish Haitians are a unique group of individuals with a rich heritage reflecting the intermingling of Polish and Haitian cultures – two cultures you wouldn’t expect crossing paths. This heritage is the result of historical events, including the involvement of Polish legions and soldiers during...
www.expatspoland.com