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August 23: Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition - Haiti, Pillar of Freedom. -Haiti
August 23: Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition - Haiti, Pillar of Freedom.
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Haiti
  • August 23, 2024
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August 23: Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition - Haiti, Pillar of Freedom.
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Every year on August 23, the world comes together to commemorate the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition, a UNESCO initiative launched in 1998. This day of remembrance is dedicated to the tragedy of the slave trade and the abolition of slavery, a dark episode in world history that continues to enlighten consciences. However, at the heart of this history is a revolutionary event that changed the course of humanity: the slave uprising in Saint-Domingue, today known as the Republic of Haiti.

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The Saint-Domingue Revolution: The Beginning of the End of Slavery

On the night of August 22-23, 1791, a slave uprising in Saint-Domingue would mark the beginning of the end for one of the most brutal systems of oppression in history. Led by leaders such as Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, and other iconic figures, these men and women defied injustice with unwavering determination. Their revolt, both courageous and desperate, was the starting point for a series of events that led to the abolition of slavery not only in the French colonies, but throughout the world.

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Haiti: The First Independent Black Republic

Haiti’s role in the abolition of slavery cannot be underestimated. After more than a decade of fierce struggle, the slaves of Saint-Domingue not only won their freedom, but also founded, in 1804, the world’s first independent black republic. Haiti’s triumph sent shockwaves through colonial empires, shaking the very foundations of the slave trade. Haiti’s independence became a symbol of resistance and emancipation for oppressed peoples everywhere.

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The Universal Legacy of the Haitian Revolution

Haiti’s impact was felt far beyond its borders. The Haitian Revolution inspired abolitionist movements in North America and Europe, strengthening the case for the abolition of slavery. It also instilled fear among slave owners in the colonies, accelerating efforts to end this inhumane practice. The victory of Haitian slaves showed that the aspiration for freedom and human dignity could not be suppressed, even by the most oppressive forces.

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A Global Commemoration: Haïti in the Spotlight

The first commemorations of the International Day for the Remembrance of the Slave Trade and its Abolition took place in Haïti in 1998, in recognition of the decisive role that this country played in the abolition of slavery. This day is an opportunity to pay tribute to the Haitian heroes who, through their struggle and sacrifice, laid the foundations for a more just and egalitarian humanity. It is also part of UNESCO’s intercultural project, "The Routes of the Enslaved", aimed at encouraging a common reflection on the causes and consequences of the slave trade.

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The Duty to Remember and Commitment to the Future

Today, as we commemorate this International Day, it is more important than ever to remember Haiti’s pioneering role in the fight against slavery. The Haitian Revolution reminds us that the fight for freedom and justice is universal and timeless. It teaches us that, even in the face of overwhelming adversity, the human spirit can triumph over oppression.

As we honor the memory of the victims of the slave trade and the Haitian fighters, we must also commit to continuing their struggle to definitively abolish all forms of human exploitation. May this legacy inspire future generations to build a world where equality, dignity, and justice are no longer distant ideals, but tangible realities for all.

Source: https://www.unesco.org/en/days/slave-trade-remembrance

Holidays in Haiti

Haiti, the pearl of the Antilles, is a country rich in history and culture. Its public holidays are moments of celebration, commemoration and reflection on its glorious past. Each date has a special meaning, plunging Haitians into a festive and memorable atmosphere. b~January 1: National Independence Day and New Year~b January 1st is a doubly special day in Haiti. On the one hand, it is National Independence Day, commemorating the victory of Haitian slaves over French colonial forces in 1804. On the other hand, it is New Year’s Eve, marking the start of a new year full of promises and hopes. b~January 2: Feast of the Forefathers~b January 2 is dedicated to the memory of ancestors. It is an opportunity for Haitians to remember their roots, to celebrate the cultural heritage passed down from generation to generation. b~February: Carnival, Shrove Monday, Fat Tuesday, Ash Wednesday~b The month of February is marked by Carnival, one of the most colorful and dynamic festivities in Haiti. The streets fill with parades, lively music and wild dancing. Mardi Gras is the culmination of Carnival, followed by Ash Wednesday, marking the start of Lent. b~April: Easter, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday~b Easter celebrations in Haïti include the religious traditions of Maundy Thursday and Good Friday. It is a time of prayer and reflection for many Haitians. b~May 1: Agriculture and Labor Day~b May 1 is dedicated to celebrating the work and importance of agriculture in the life of the country. It is an opportunity to recognize the efforts of workers and to highlight the agricultural sector. b~May 18: Flag Festival~b Flag Day celebrates the Haitian flag, a symbol of independence and national pride. Haitians honor their colors and remember the courage of their ancestors in the fight for freedom. b~May 23: National Sovereignty Day~b This day commemorates the recognition of Haitian sovereignty by France in 1805. It is a moment of national pride and reaffirmation of independence. b~May - August: Ascension~b The Ascension is celebrated between May and August, a religious festival marking the ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven. b~June: Fête-Dieu~b Fête-Dieu, also known as the Feast of the Body and Blood of Christ, is an important religious celebration in June. b~August 15: Assumption of Mary~b The Assumption of Mary is a Christian holiday marking the ascension of the Virgin Mary into heaven. It is celebrated with fervor in Haiti. b~September 20: Birth Anniversary of Jean-Jacques Dessalines~b This date commemorates the birth of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, one of the founding fathers of Haïti and a key leader in the struggle for independence. b~October 17: Death of Dessalines~b October 17 is a day of commemoration of the death of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, recalling his impact on Haitian history. b~November 1: All Saints’ Day~b All Saints’ Day is a religious holiday honoring all saints, celebrated with prayers and visits to cemeteries. b~November 2: Day of the Dead~b All Souls’ Day is an opportunity to pay homage to the deceased by decorating graves and participating in religious ceremonies. b~November 18: Commemoration of the Battle of Vertières~b This day honors the decisive Haitian victory at the Battle of Vertières in 1803, marking the end of the French occupation. b~December 5: Discovery Day~b December 5 celebrates the discovery of the island by Christopher Columbus in 1492. b~December 25: Christmas~b Christmas celebrations in Haïti are marked by family reunions, festive meals and religious traditions. Public holidays in Haïti are much more than breaks from everyday life; these are moments that embody the soul and resilience of a people. Each celebration provides an opportunity to come together, remember the past and look to the future with hope and determination.

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Beven brings Haïti among the elite of world slam

This Thursday, November 14, 2024, the young slam artist Youven Beaubrun, Beven by his stage name, qualified Haiti, for the very first time in its history, for the final of the Slam World Cup. This competition, which brings together the best slam artists on the planet, took place on African soil, more precisely in Togo. In a country held by the throat, a country that is dying from start to finish, under the dangerous feat of a certain armed part of its youth, Beven’s extraordinary performance in this competition resonates with the echo of a whole piece of the country, in the thirst for beauty. Beven is the symbol of a youth that refuses to give in to the chaos that surrounds the face of its motherland. Art, slam being his field of specialization, is used in the best possible way to make hope resonate. And to continue to believe that a country that made 1804 cannot afford the luxury of sinking so hard in the face of human history. "It is with pride that I advanced in this competition. Especially with the crisis that is going through the country at the moment. My qualification for the final is an eternal sign of hope, which confirms the fact that not everything in this country will end in death," the young slammer told us before going to compete in the final. The final took place on Saturday, November 16, 2024, where Beven had his chance to represent his wounded land well on the doorstep of a world victory, a victory that if it had taken place, would have been initialed in the name of an entire people, in the absolute race against a great chaos that dreams only of suffocating it. Although he failed to win this cup (finishing in sixth place overall), the Haitian slam champion had time to inspire an entire country during his great journey in this competition. This is only a postponement, next time victory will be achieved for sure.

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Haiti: The Rara season in Petit-Goâve: A celebration of life, unity and resilience

As the new season of Rara looms on the horizon, certain groups such as Saint Jacques Majeur, Ratyèfè, Florida Band, Lambi Grand, and Grap Kenèp are already preparing to light up the streets of Petit-Goâve with their flamboyant costumes and their captivating melodies. For these groups, the future looks bright, promising a season full of passion and success. However, other rara bands are still hesitant about which direction to take. Despite these uncertainties, optimism reigns regarding the success of this new season for all rara groups in the commune of Petit-Goâve. Rara, anchored in the Vodou tradition, is much more than a simple artistic manifestation. It embodies the very essence of Haitian culture, highlighting questions of memory, tradition and identity. This increasingly popular form of artistic expression attracts a large audience and arouses unprecedented enthusiasm. Groups like Ratyèfè, Grap Kenèp, Florida Band and Chenn Tamaren, recognized for their ability to delight their fans, play a crucial role in the continued growth of rara in the town. The rara season traditionally begins on Dead Thursday and ends on the night of Easter Sunday or quasimodo Monday. To mark the beginning of this sacred period, groups organize opening ceremonies, honoring the spirits of the deceased in rituals steeped in spirituality. These ceremonies, often held in cemeteries or in the "Bitasyons" of groups, symbolize the deep link between the rara and Vodou traditions.

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History

History

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.

Heritage

Heritage

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

Culture

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.