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Haïti : Citadelle la FerrièreHaïti : Citadelle la Ferrière

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Culture February 17, 2024

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

Par Gladimyr Vaval |
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Community March 17, 2024

Discover the Hidden Gem of Caracol: A Peaceful Haven in Haiti

Nestled in the enchanting embrace of Haiti’s North East department lies a true marvel – Caracol. This picturesque area is more than just a destination; it’s a sanctuary where tranquility dances in harmony with the gentle whispers of nature. From the chirping of content birds to the warm smiles of its inhabitants, Caracol is a true wonderland waiting to be explored. One of the most captivating aspects of Caracol is its serene ambiance. Here, peace isn’t just a concept; it’s a way of life. Even the birds seem to sing with an extra ounce of joy, as if they’ve found their own slice of paradise amidst the lush greenery. Stepping into Caracol feels like entering a world where time slows down, allowing you to embrace the simple pleasures of life. But what truly sets Caracol apart is its people – kind-hearted souls who find solace in the simplicity of their daily lives. Engaged in activities like fishing and gardening, they embody a deep connection to the land that sustains them. And amidst it all, the industrious spirit of Caracol shines through, with the industrial parc serving as a beacon of progress and opportunity for the community. Yet, amidst the tranquil rhythm of everyday life, Caracol pulsates with the vibrant energy of Haitian culture. Voodoo, an integral part of local life, weaves its mystical threads into the fabric of daily rituals and traditions. And come July, the entire community comes alive with patronal celebrations that draw Haitian diaspora from every corner of the globe. It’s a time of joyous reunions, where cultural immersion meets spirited competitions, from exhilarating running races to thrilling boat races on the sparkling waters. As the sun sets on another day in Caracol, the excitement doesn’t end – it transforms. Carnival season, known as "mardi gras," casts its spell over the land, igniting the imaginations of children who eagerly don disguises and wield whips to make merry mischief. Laughter fills the air as they chase each other, their gleeful shrieks echoing through the streets, creating memories that will last a lifetime. In Caracol, every moment is a celebration, every day a testament to the resilience and warmth of its people. So, whether you’re seeking a tranquil retreat or a cultural adventure, Caracol invites you to discover its hidden wonders and experience the magic for yourself. After all, in this captivating corner of Haiti, every day is a journey into the heart of paradise.

Par Grégory Henderson LEFRUIT | 1
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Personality May 27, 2025

Meet Edison Juste: An Outstanding Singer

Beyond the chaos, in the heart of the desolation, there are voices that resonate. They shatter the silence, depicting the macabre reality of everyday life in a thousand shards, thus defying evil to give meaning to life and make each day a place where hope flows like a stream of honey. Edison Juste’s voice is one of them: it sings of hope, of love, while praising God. It was in Carrefour, 27 years ago, that the young singer’s sun rose within a family of four children. Edison Juste is the youngest. Between the diplomat, the lawyer, and the entrepreneur that he is, singing remains his greatest passion for this young married man. Like many Haitian singers, Edison Juste took his first steps at a very early age in a choir—Yahvé Shama—alongside children his own age. He would later become the lead singer. This was in 2010. Asked about his first real encounter with music, he replied: q~It was in 2013 that I really started singing. It was during a competition organized by Styl Doz at the Évangélique de la Grâce church,~q, says the active member of the group YES (Yon Enstriman Sen), who also expresses his gratitude to singer Joseph Rhousteau, who inspired and coached him for several years. Edison Juste stands out not only for his style, but also for his versatility. His ability to make the notes vibrate with a moving candor seems limitless. Yet, he has his preferences: q~There isn’t a single style that characterizes me. I see myself as a liquid: I take the shape of the container. Even if I remain haunted by Worship, Compass, and Jazz, he confides. Today, the Carrefour native boasts a rich and varied musical repertoire. From 2010 to 2025, he has grown both in maturity and in renown: five competition wins, his first song recorded in 2018, joining the band YES, his participation in the second album, Se pou m beni, a collaboration with Amos César in a musical, and his contribution to the album Anprent by maestro Berwin Sydney. For him, this journey is already a great source of inspiration. Edison Juste never does without the presence of God, whether in the creative process or during his stage performances: "What influences and motivates me the most is always the presence of Elohim, and the audience’s desire to savor and appreciate my work," he says.

Par Haïti Wonderland |
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Haiti: Fort Liberté, a Historical and Cultural Jewel

Nestled on the northeast coast of Haiti, between the green mountains and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, lies a small town with undeniable charm: Fort Liberté. This historical and cultural gem is full of fascinating stories, picturesque landscapes and cultural richness that captivate visitors from around the world. A Historical Heritage Fort Liberté owes its name to the old fortress which overlooks the city, a vestige of the French colonial era. Built in the 18th century to protect the region from foreign invasions, this fort offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding area, testifying to its strategic importance at the time. Today, it serves as a major tourist attraction, offering visitors a captivating insight into Haiti’s turbulent history. Culture and Traditions The cultural richness of Fort Liberté is reflected in its vibrant traditions, captivating music and local crafts. The city’s residents are renowned for their warm hospitality and pride in their heritage. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture by experiencing authentic Creole cuisine, watching traditional dance performances, or exploring bustling markets where a variety of handmade crafts can be found, such as wood carvings and vivid paintings. Natural beauty The surroundings of Fort Liberté are full of breathtaking natural treasures. The white sand beaches lined with palm trees offer an idyllic setting to relax and soak up the tropical sun. Outdoor enthusiasts will also find what they are looking for in the surrounding mountains, where they can hike through lush nature and discover hidden waterfalls and breathtaking panoramas. Fort Liberté, with its captivating blend of history, culture and nature, is a must-visit destination for those wishing to experience the true essence of Haiti. Whether you explore the historical remains, immerse yourself in the daily lives of the locals or marvel at the natural beauty of the surrounding area, this small town offers an enriching and memorable experience for all those who have the chance to visit it.

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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.

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