Soup Joumou HaitiA Deep History: Soup Joumou and Freedom
Soup joumou is traditionally eaten on January 1st, Haiti’s Independence Day celebration. Indeed, the dish is a powerful symbol of the country’s independence, which was gained in 1804 when Haïti became the first country to abolish slavery and establish a black republic.
During the colonial period, soup joumou was reserved exclusively for French colonists, who enjoyed it as a luxury dish. African slaves were forbidden to consume it. However, after the Haitian Revolution and the victory of the slaves, soup joumou became a symbol of victory over oppression and a sign of freedom for Haitians. Celebrating January 1st with soup joumou is therefore an act of memory, resilience and national pride.
