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When Haiti’s talent and cultural wealth become one.
When Haiti’s talent and cultural wealth become one.
When Haiti’s talent and cultural wealth become one.

When Haiti’s talent and cultural wealth become one.

“Haïti and its incredible genius” is the great competition that the city of Lowell, Massachusetts, had the pleasure of hosting on October 5th. Organized by IVAP Haiti, an organization that, despite the many difficulties, remains faithful to its mission. IVAP firmly believes that the new Haïti is already written somewhere, and it is up to us, through our actions, to make it concrete and constantly highlight it. Hence the need to organize such a competition.

A competition hosted by promising talents

Under the enlightened animation of Ishtar Pady and Zachary Thermo, the event left a memorable mark. This atmosphere, both calm and solemn, highlighted civics, Haitian literature, the geography of Haiti, as well as its history, by opposing two brilliant young people: Bens Hervens Toussaint and Youry Darly Fleurissaint.

Inspiring conferences on the Haitian community

This moment of fraternity also allowed the presentation of various conferences, including that of Sabyne Denaud, who addressed the challenges and support provided to immigrants in the United States, Fatima Al-Muntafik, who discussed the educational benefits for immigrants in community colleges, and finally Marcna Pierre, who encouraged participants to pursue their dreams with determination, whatever the challenges encountered. All these interventions were born from love for Haïti and a deep knowledge of the subject.

A poignant speech on the situation in Haiti

Despite the distance, the winds of despair blowing over Haïti and the weight of poverty have not spared the CEO of IVAP Haiti, who continues to defend his country with vigor. In a speech tinged with anger and indignation, he stated: “Haïti is not a poor country, but a country that the great powers have destroyed, and where they continue to fuel unrest.” These words explain the duration of political instability and the inevitable flight of Haitian youth.

Haitian traditions
Haitian traditions

Haitian traditions

Haiti, the pearl of the Antilles, is a country rich in history and traditions. Its vibrant and diverse culture is reflected through its national holidays, cultural festivities, traditional foods, religious beliefs, folk tales, and traditional games. Let’s immerse ourselves in the social fabric of Haïti to discover the beauty of its traditions. b~National Holidays:~b National holidays in Haïti are moments of pride and national unity as January 1, Independence Day, commemorates the victory of Haitian slaves over French colonial forces in 1804, making Haïti the first independent country in Haiti. Latin America and the Caribbean or the commemoration of the Battle of Vertières on November 18. The Battle of Vertières was one of the last great battles of the revolution. It took place in Vertières, near the town of Cap-Haitien. b~Cultural Festivities:~b Haïti is also famous for its cultural festivities, particularly Carnival, which is an explosion of color, dance, and music. Artistic and craft events, such as the Rara festival, are an opportunity for artists to showcase their talent. The Rara, a musical parade, combines folklore and spirituality, creating a unique experience. b~Traditional Foods:~b Haitian cuisine is a delight for the taste buds. Dishes like griot (fried pork), diri djon djon (rice with black mushrooms), and the legendary joumou (joumou soup) are an integral part of Haitian culinary tradition. Bold flavors, spices and cooking methods inherited from African and French tradition make Haitian cuisine unforgettable. b~Vodou:~b Vodou, often misunderstood, is a synchretic religion that incorporates elements of Catholicism, African animism, and indigenous beliefs. It plays a significant role in the daily lives of Haitians, influencing music, dance, and religious rites. Vodou is a profound expression of Haitian spirituality. The Tales (Krik Krak, Tim Tim, Bwa Sèch): Haitian folk tales, passed down from generation to generation, are rich in morality and wisdom. b~Konbit :~b The concept of Konbit represents community solidarity. Haitians come together to perform community tasks, whether in agricultural fields or for construction projects. It is a living example of the collective spirit that permeates Haitian society. The most recent major project to date concerns the construction of the canal from the Massacre River to Ouanaminthe, which took place between September and December 2023. Thousands of inhabitants of the north of the country mobilized all their forces to erect a canal allowing to collect water intended for irrigation of their plantations, with the aim of obtaining better harvests. Despite their modest means, they were motivated by the slogan "KPK" (Kanal la pap kanpe), a direct response to Dominican President Luis Abinader who warned them and did everything in his power to stop the construction of the canal. This channel represents the deep solidarity of Haitians and reaffirms national pride. Despite economic challenges, the people of northern Haïti have demonstrated exceptional determination to work together for a common goal. The slogan “Kanal la pap kanpe” embodies their resilience in the face of external pressures and demonstrates their unwavering will to continue the construction of the canal. b~Traditional Games:~b Traditional games are an essential part of daily life in Haiti. Games like lido, sote kòd, Yoyo, Ralba, Marèl, TiTaTo, Kay, lago kache, Monte kap, teke mab, woule sèk, twa fwa se manbo, and domino bring people together, promoting camaraderie and fun. Haitian traditions are a harmonious blend of spirituality, community, and cultural diversity. Every aspect, from national holidays to traditional games, helps weave the rich cultural tapestry that makes Haïti proud. These traditions are the beating heart of the nation, a precious heritage that continues to be passed down from generation to generation.

Louino Robillard calls on youth to hope

Louino Robillard, the guest of honor, also expressed his pride for Haiti, evoking its glorious past and calling on the young generation to pursue their dreams without ever giving up.

The grand finale took place under a temperate moon, in a friendly atmosphere that brought together several nations and reflected the diversity and richness of the Haitian diaspora. With the positive outcome of the competition, coordinator Ms. Peladja Menelas did not hide her satisfaction. She said she was proud of the finalists’ performances and the hard work of her team, which prompted IVAP Haïti founder Mr. Zachary Thermo to passionately declare: “We may be forced to leave Haiti, but we will never give up on our dreams.”

Youry Daly Fleurissin, the champion who inspires his community

Youry Daly Fleurissin, the genius who won the trophy, inspires hope and pride in his community. Despite the difficulties facing the Artibonite region, he persevered and, today, it is impossible to talk about him without mentioning his champion title. He worked hard for this award, and he deserved it.

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About the Author
Jose-Dentha DENOYER
Jose-Dentha DENOYER
Dessalines Toutânkhamon (Wolkens TIRONÉ)

Je tiens à féliciter le coordinateur Thermo Zachary pour son courage d'avoir pris la décision d'organiser une telle activité malgré tant de difficultés qui se trouvaient dans le processus. Félicitations méritoires également à toute l'équipe organisatrice pour les énormes efforts conjugués avec le PDG afin d'arriver à concrétiser ce grand objectif. Je vous encourage malgré de continuer à rehausser les valeurs de notre chère mère, Hayti.

J'exprime particulièrement ma joie d'avoir été l'un participant pour le département du centre. J'étais à la deuxième position (2è) au département du centre au phase de la rencontre des départements et l'international.

Vive IVAP-Hayti !

Dessalines Toutânkhamon (Wolkens TIRONÉ), Panafricaniste, Révolutionnaire, Poète, Prof d'histoire.
2è pour le département du centre au phase de la rencontre des départements et l'international organisé par IVAP-HAYTI .

October 15, 2024 - 03:38:06 AM
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Haiti: The History of the World’s First Free Black Nation

Haiti, the pearl of the Antilles, is a Caribbean island with a rich and complex history. However, its special status as the world’s first free black nation gives it a unique place in the annals of history. This small island was the scene of an extraordinary revolution which resulted in independence, thus marking the beginning of a new era for the black community and the abolition of slavery. Let’s delve into the captivating story of the birth of the first black republic, Haiti. b~The colonial era and slavery~b Haiti’s history dates back to the arrival of Europeans in the 15th century, when Christopher Columbus discovered the island. European settlers, mainly Spanish and French, introduced slavery to exploit the island’s resources, including sugar, coffee and cotton. The indigenous Native American population was decimated, paving the way for the massive importation of African slaves. b~The Haitian Revolution~b On August 14, 1791, Haitian slaves rose up against their oppressors, sparking the Haitian Revolution. Under the leadership of iconic figures such as Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines and Henri Christophe, the insurgent slaves inflicted defeats on European armies, demonstrating fierce resistance and a desperate quest for freedom. b~The Declaration of Independence and the creation of the Republic of Haiti~b On January 1, 1804, Haïti proclaimed its independence, becoming the world’s first free black nation. This historic declaration symbolized the end of slavery and the triumph of the will of a people determined to live free. The Republic of Haïti was born in struggle and blood, asserting its autonomy in the face of the colonial powers. b~Post-independence challenges~b However, independence did not mean the end of challenges for Haiti. The country had to face external pressure, reparations imposed by France in exchange for recognition of its independence, as well as internal unrest. Despite these obstacles, Haïti strove to build a free and sovereign nation. The story of Haïti is that of a nation that overcame countless challenges to emerge as a pioneer of freedom for the black population. The Haitian Revolution remains a unique example of resistance, courage and determination, and Haïti continues to carry the torch of independence in the contemporary world. The legacy of this small Caribbean island still resonates today, reminding the world that freedom is a universal right that can be won even in the most difficult circumstances.

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First black nation to free itself from slavery and gain independence from France in 1804 and influenced other liberation movements around the world, inspiring struggles for freedom and equality.

Natural beauty

Natural beauty

Haïti is blessed with spectacular natural landscapes, including white sand beaches, mountains and rich biodiversity.

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Heritage

Haïti has a rich historical heritage, including sites like the Citadelle Laferrière and the Sans-Souci Palace, listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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Culture

Haïti has a rich and diverse culture, influenced by African, European and indigenous elements. Haitian music, dance, art and cuisine are celebrated around the world.

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