The KOJES Jèn Soley Festival: A Place for Cultural Exchange and Encounters

Haïti et son Rôle Pionnier dans l’Abolition de l’Esclavage Mondial

For centuries, the institution of slavery has darkened human history, leaving behind a legacy of pain, oppression and the struggle for freedom. However, in this dark tale, one nation stands out for its courage and determination to break the chains of oppression: Haiti. Located in the Caribbean, Haïti played a pioneering role in the abolition of slavery, laying the foundation for the fight for freedom and equality around the world. The history of slavery in Haïti dates back to the arrival of Europeans on the island, which was then called Santo Domingo, in the 15th century. French colonists quickly established an economy based on sugar and coffee production, cruelly exploiting millions of African slaves deported to work on plantations. However, this brutal system engendered fierce resistance from slaves, whose fight for freedom ultimately led to one of the most significant revolutions in history. In 1791, under the leadership of iconic figures such as Toussaint Louverture, Jean-Jacques Dessalines and Henri Christophe, Haitian slaves rose up against their oppressors in an unprecedented rebellion. This revolt resulted in a war of independence that lasted more than a decade, but ultimately resulted in the proclamation of Haiti’s independence in 1804, making that country the first post-colonial nation ruled by people from slavery. The impact of the Haitian Revolution on the abolition of slavery worldwide cannot be overstated. By breaking the chains of oppression and proclaiming their independence, Haitians have sent a powerful message to all oppressed peoples around the world: freedom is possible, and it is worth the struggle. The example of Haïti inspired other movements for the abolition of slavery in the Americas and beyond, thus helping to shake the very foundations of the institution of slavery. Haiti’s participation in the fight against slavery was not limited to its territory; it also extended to external actions where Haitian men were sent or actively participated in movements for the abolition of slavery in other regions of the world. For example, Haitian President Alexandre Pétion supported Simón Bolívar, the leader of the South American revolution, by providing him with weapons, money and even men, which contributed to the liberation of several countries in America Latin of colonial domination. Haïti also provided support for independence movements in Central America. Haitian fighters, led by General Jean-Pierre Boyer, helped Venezuelan patriots fight against Spanish rule, contributing to the liberation of that region. The Haitian government financially and diplomatically supported movements for the abolition of slavery in countries such as Venezuela, Colombia and Mexico, contributing to the gradual eradication of this institution throughout the region. Although Haïti did not directly participate in the American Civil War, many Haitians and descendants of Haitians played crucial roles in the abolitionist movement in the United States. Figures who were of Haitian origin or of Haitian ancestry, were important voices in the fight against slavery and for equal rights in the United States. The legacy of the Haitian Revolution remains a symbol of resistance and courage for future generations. Today, as the world continues to struggle against injustice and oppression in various forms, Haiti’s history reminds us that the fight for freedom is a universal fight, one that transcends borders and times. Haiti’s participation in the abolition of slavery throughout the world remains a crucial chapter in the history of humanity. Through their courage and determination, Haitians have paved the way for a future where freedom and equality are inalienable rights for all.

The Republic of the Stateless?

Haïti is making headlines all over the world. And it’s not good news. The exploits of Haitians rarely generate so much interest, but we always tend to point out the excesses, spill ink to stir up thorns in the side, broadcast on loop to relay the chaos that is raging. There is hardly any media to make amends for the resilience of this cornered people. No one to highlight the fierce resistance that serves as fuel for this people hanging in the gorges of death. And what if it was to a certain extent the only way to talk about this country to finally attract attention? It is July 26, 2024. The Olympic Games have just started in France. The 33rd Olympiad of modern times. Without realizing it, according to Forbes Magazine, Haïti ranks among the ten nations with the best costume, proudly pointing to third place. At the same time, miles away from France, on “The Island of Skillfully Orchestrated Chaos,” Haitians do not even realize how much this recognition borders on irony. A paradox whose unpopular evocation is likely to greatly displease. An aerial image shows the city of Paris in all its splendor, illuminated like the gates of paradise, reflecting all the grandeur of France, all the magnificence it has acquired over the centuries, without forgetting the contribution of the blood shed by the horrible machine of colonization. I close my eyes, I go back in time, I see again this boy left to his own devices, lost without even knowing it, doomed to failure without even understanding it. And then there are the others. Boys in the same situation, or worse. Banished from society, they do not know what life has in store for them. They form the elegant class of the marginalized, in their quality of scoundrels, good-for-nothings, and thugs who spoil the splendor of society. This contrast challenges me, and I wonder for a moment if those who live the chaos from the outside grasp the stakes and the reality of the situation. Moreover, it seems to me that even the majority of Haitians living in the territory have no notion of the fundamental and essential aspects of the situation.

Haïti Wonderland Named Best Creole Website Using the .ht Domain in 2025

Port-au-Prince, June 26, 2025 - During a ceremony held at the El Rancho Hotel, the Haïti Wonderland website haitiwonderland.ht was named the best Creole website using the .ht national domain for 2025. This prestigious award was presented at the national competition "Pi bon sit an kreyòl ki sèvi ak domèn .ht," organized by ISOC Haïti (Internet Society) and the Fondation Rezo pou Devlopman Dirab Ayiti (FRDDH).

What sea bathes Haiti?

Haiti, pearl of the Caribbean, is surrounded by turquoise waters that enrich its landscape and maritime culture. But what sea bathes this island country? Let’s discover together the sea that borders Haiti, its geographical importance and the activities it offers.

The 6 Terms That Define the Republic of Haiti

Haiti, rich in history and resilience, is defined by six terms enshrined in its Constitution. These terms are not only legal principles, but also fundamental values ​​that reflect the essence and identity of this unique nation. According to the first article of the Constitution of March 29, 1987, amended on May 14, 2011, Haïti is an "indivisible, sovereign, independent, free, democratic and social" Republic. These words embody the spirit of the Haitian people and the vision of a unified nation.

Kenscoff, the other side of Haïti that we refuse to see

Perched in the heights, above the commune of Pétion-ville, the commune of Kenscoff is a jewel lit up above the metropolitan area of ​​Port-au-Prince. The commune is located in the department of the West of Haiti, and is about 10 kilometers from the city center of Port-au-Prince, the capital of the country. The city of Kenscoff was founded in 1930, and was elevated to the rank of commune in 1934. The commune has an area of ​​202.76 square kilometers and is made up of five communal sections: Belle-fontaine, Bongars, Grand-fonds, Sourcailles. And Nouvelle-Touraine. Kenscoff is one of the most mountainous communes in Haiti.