Pap Jazz 2025, a Celebration of Haiti’s Great Musical Richness

Haiti: Carnival and Rara: Crossed Perspectives on Culture and Haitian Identity

In our tradition, carnival represents an essential cultural activity. Indeed, for the holding of it this year, the State had drawn from the public treasury not only a huge sum but also a strong concentration of law enforcement to ensure the protection and security of carnival-goers in the area. metropolitan. Despite numerous criticisms and concerns expressed by certain media on the one hand, then on the other hand by the democratic opposition. While it is true that in Port au Prince these concerns had had a no less valuable consequence on the progress of this festivity. It is no less true that this was the case in other provincial towns, as proof in the southeast department the authorities did not record anything as an element of accident or incident during the progress of the carnival unlike Port au Prince. Certainly, socio/economic problems are increasingly worrying, nevertheless what makes us what we are today, a free and independent people is none other than our exceptionality. This deeply expresses our intrinsic characteristic in relation to people. In fact, historically we are a people who laugh and cry, smile and irritate, dance and hit the system, sing and fight so well that "grenadya alaso sa ki mouri zafè ya yo" is the most emblematic song of the slaves for the conquest of our freedom. We do not intend to claim that those who expressed their disagreement with the carnival are showing a historical deficit. However, we leave in the shadows a fundamental question: why is carnival taken care of by the State while the rara is like an abandoned child? The rara is not only a simple cultural tradition but, above all, it is the heritage of our valiant warriors who bravely fought the French expeditionary army, the most powerful of the time. While, this mass cultural, she is still marginalized by state authorities. It is emphasized that social cohesion is the dead point of carnival. On the other hand, this is the strong point of rara. As proof, the Thursday of the Dead in our Voudouesque tradition which represents the opening ceremony for the rara bands is the blatant testimony of this social cohesion. And, in fact, there were circles of people who took divergent directions to attend the opening ceremony of their rara bands. For this opening ceremony the atmosphere was a taste of carnival in terms of color. On the side of Croix Hilaire, for the title champion Ratyèfè full force band, the color of his club was very diverse, a long dress of apricot yellow, mauve white, then white scarf. In terms of performance, this band had completely proven its champion skills thanks to its arsenal of musicians who were not in their testing phase. To tell the truth, they performed their note with surgical precision as a doctor-surgeon in his surgical procedure. The synchronization between the musicians, the instruments and then the fans form a whole and harmonize perfectly well. This band not only has the magic of words and verbs, it seems that they also have the magic to thrill even the most reluctant fans. Moreover, his performance for this dead Thursday was a challenge for his rivals this weekend to the extent that their performances were less good. On the symbol side of light, Grap Kenèp was the wonder of the Thursday evening of the dead. His club dressed in the appropriate color for this evening, purple scarf, purple jersey, then white “kolan”. In a symbolic way, this marriage of color represents Baron in Haitian Vodou. Without a doubt, it was the most beautiful symbolic representation of the evening. In terms of performance, returning from the cemetery we felt a very strong warmth of jubilation, elation, and playfulness for a completely balanced performance. As far as Chenn Tamarin is concerned, it was already 2 a.m. when our team met him, it was a less good performance than what we were accustomed to. On the symbolic side it leaves something to be desired. His news was that he had his own media. Petit-Goave/Culture and Society

Looking back at Dev Expo 2024: The Biggest Event for Haitian Developers

After two years of absence, Dev Expo made its big comeback in 2024, bringing a breath of enthusiasm and optimism to the Haitian tech community. This long-awaited event was officially announced on August 20, 2024 by Marc Alain Boucicault, CEO of Banj, triggering excitement in the tech community. Since the last edition, held in 2021, the following years had been marked by the cancellation of this flagship event due to the instability that reigned in the country. However, despite the many challenges still present, the organizers chose to take up the challenge of organizing this edition, demonstrating the resilience and commitment of the Haitian tech community.

Haiti: Historical Revolution and Global Impact

Haiti, a Caribbean island, carries within it an extraordinary history that resonates through the ages. Best known for being the scene of the first successful slave revolt in modern history, this nation has left an indelible mark on the course of humanity. Haiti’s history is notable not only for its revolutionary independence, but also for its impact on liberation movements and struggles for social justice around the world.

Pity or the work of an old soul crushed under the weight of an absinthe-flavored existence

The word crisis carries an infinite number of meanings. No intention of revealing them all this afternoon. However, a few clarifications are necessary. A kid whose parents do not have enough money at Christmas to buy her a Little Black Mermaid doll has a fit and locks herself in her room without touching her meals for the day. A boy whose dog was suddenly poisoned by a neighbor in revenge or shot after contracting rabies, losing a faithful friend overnight, enters into crisis. Finally, a society in the grip of all sorts of mutations and whose leaders are weak, perhaps prolonged in a deep crisis. In the first case, the young girl sulks to attract the attention of her parents in order to feel appreciated by children her age at school or in the neighborhood. Today, thirty minutes of negotiations can be enough to find a lasting solution. In my day, a few well-aimed belt blows would have overcome this whim. But, humanity evolves, they say. In the second case, this boy can find his smile again after a few weeks. He needs a little attention and, probably, another dog. As Stendhal would say, only passion triumphs over passion. In the last case, this society led by inepts is shaken to its deep foundations. Its institutions can disintegrate one by one. The vital forces dissolve in no time. This situation creates a societal tsunami that destroys all life within this community. It is indeed a crisis. The crisis from this point of view constitutes an alarming, desperate situation in the existence of a community where nothing is going well. Chaos reigns supreme. The very essence of life disappears. The individual can take precedence over the community. Everyone tries to solve their problems without worrying about others. The closest neighbor is relegated light years away from you. How can we turn to creation? How can we continue to conceive of otherness? How can the artist absorb this great collective disarray as a source of motivation? These are the questions I must answer. An artist sees and feels what ordinary mortals cannot even imagine in a thousand-year life. He creates to denounce, when his conscience as a human being is revolted. He exalts heroes or the homeland according to his feelings. He sings the beauty of an irresistible, captivating or ugly resplendent woman. He can also use the ambient desolation to give meaning to life. Creating in literature as in the arts in general does not depend on the situation. The act of creation depends on the creator’s disposition. Events paralyze some and galvanize others. Creating is enjoyable. Everyone therefore enjoys according to their own whim. Writing opens the way to change. The writer takes a different look at the world. By embedding himself in reality, he embellishes it, makes it better or hideous depending on the message he intends to share. All things considered, with him, life is never fixed. Writing is putting the world in a jar to travel the universe. The artist broods over his work in all weathers. Oswald Durand was delighted to see Choucoune’s beautiful body from his secret observatory. Musset, on the other hand, was in pain writing his October night. As for Dany Laferrière, in exile, he described the horrors of the Duvalier dictatorship and the carefree attitude of the young girls in his neighborhood in this violent and dangerous world. Ultimately, the writer lives in a society with values ​​that he shares or not. They condition his existence or have no hold on him. In many ways, the surrounding world serves as his laboratory. He carries out his experiments there. He casts a new, worn, disillusioned, melancholic, violent, bitter look at the world depending on his mood. Pitié is the work of an old soul crushed under the weight of an existence that tastes of absinthe. Young Mike Bernard Michel lives by expedients and lies. The hands of life fall on him with indescribable violence. Misfortune embraces him day and night. Should we give up? Musset liked to say: "Man is an apprentice, pain is his master. And no one knows himself until he has suffered." The artist must produce under all skies. Such is his vocation. Incompetents in power, legal or highway bandits, the high cost of living, unemployment, heartaches are all subjects of concern for him. If it is true that a hungry belly has no ears, the fact remains that it keeps the brain awake. What am I saying, it stimulates it to the point of creating timeless works. Mr. Pitié, you have a bright future ahead of you. Work of Jean Rony Charles, the book is available from Éditions Repérage.

Official launch of “Ewo” Beer: Haitian Pride across the World

December 1 marked an exceptional moment for the Haitian community and beer lovers around the world, with the official launch of “Ewo” beer by Haitian entrepreneur Jhonson Napoléon. After the success of “Kola Choucoune”, already present in several countries, including the United States and Canada, it is the turn of “Ewo” beer to take the American market by storm. Available in several cities in the United States, this beer embodies the perfect marriage between tradition and innovation, offering consumers a unique taste experience. “Ewo” beer is much more than just an alcoholic beverage. It is a delight that skillfully blends the authentic flavors of Haitian culture with a touch of innovation. In a country where Prestige beer and Barbancourt rum have already conquered palates around the world, “Ewo” beer is proudly added to the list of Haitian taste treasures. Jhonson Napoléon, the man behind this new creation, continues to fly the colors of Haïti across the globe. His commitment to promoting quality Haitian products continues to strengthen the reputation of his country of origin. “Ewo” beer is not just a drink, it is a symbol of Haitian creativity and perseverance that transcends borders. This new step demonstrates the country’s ability to be part of the global trend for quality craft beers. “Ewo” beer is not only a leading local product, but it also stands out on the international scene as the representative of a rich and dynamic culture. The pride that Haitians feel for the success of Jhonson Napoléon and the growing fame of “Ewo” beer is palpable. It is a success story that transcends geographic boundaries and embodies the strength of the Haitian entrepreneurial spirit.

Haiti: In the Kingdom of Legends: Le Colombier, Keeper of the Secrets of Belle-Anse

In the heart of the azure waters of the Caribbean Sea, stands majestically the Colombier, an imposing rock mass that defies time and the elements. Located off the picturesque coast of Belle-Anse in southeastern Haiti, the Colombier is more than just a geological formation; it is a symbol of the natural beauty and cultural heritage of the region. Dominating the marine horizon with its imposing silhouette, the Colombier is shrouded in mystery and legends passed down from generation to generation. According to local stories, this rock was formed by the sea gods themselves, testifying to their passage through these crystal clear waters. A legend which adds an aura of fascination to this already enchanting place. But beyond its mythical appearance, the Colombier also offers a breathtaking visual experience. Visitors who venture to this natural wonder are rewarded with breathtaking panoramas: steep cliffs plunging into turquoise waters, isolated coves hemmed with golden sand, and abundant marine flora that enlivens the seabed. Le Colombier is also a refuge for remarkable biodiversity. Its waters are home to a multitude of marine species, from colorful fish to spectacular corals and majestic sea turtles. Scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts will find a preserved paradise there, where nature reigns supreme and each immersion is a fascinating exploration. As a tourist spot, Le Colombier offers an unforgettable getaway for travelers looking for adventure and authentic discoveries. Boat excursions from Belle-Anse allow visitors to get up close and personal with this natural wonder, contemplate its spectacular shapes and let themselves be captivated by its captivating beauty. In short, the Colombier embodies the quintessence of Haiti’s natural beauty, a hidden treasure in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. Between its breathtaking landscapes, its cultural heritage rich in legends and its exceptional biodiversity, this maritime jewel fully deserves its reputation as an essential tourist destination. Come discover the Colombier and let yourself be carried away by the magic of this exceptional place.