Haïti and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Jean-Jacques Dessalines, leader of the Haitian Revolution

In the annals of the history of Haiti, an island located in the Caribbean at the entrance to the Gulf of Mexico and shared with the Dominican Republic, Jean-Jacques Dessalines emerges like a phoenix from the ashes of oppression. Born a slave on September 20, 1758 in the home of Henri Duclos, in Cormier (Grande-Rivière-du-Nord), in the French colony of Saint-Domingue, Dessalines was a Creole of African (Afro-Caribbean) origin. Freed during the 1794 abolition achieved through slave revolts, actually served as an officer in the French army during the French Revolution. At that time, the ideas of freedom and equality were at the heart of the concerns of the inhabitants of the colonies. Dessalines actively participated in the fighting against the Spanish and British forces, alongside the French, in Santo Domingo. Having risen to the rank of Lieutenant General, Jean-Jacques Dessalines turned against the French during the Leclerc expedition, sent to Saint-Domingue by Bonaparte to reestablish colonial authority and slavery during the Haitian Revolution. After the capture and deportation of Toussaint Louverture to France on June 7, 1802, Dessalines assumed a leading role in continuing the struggle for independence. He led numerous battles, including the battle of Crête-à-Pierrot in March 1802, where he galvanized his soldiers with his famous declaration: “Let those who want to remain slaves of the French leave the fort, let those, on the contrary, who want to die as free men, line up around me.” On January 1, 1804, Jean-Jacques Dessalines achieved the long-awaited goal of independence by proclaiming Haïti as a sovereign nation, becoming the second country in the Americas to gain independence from a colonial power. He became the first leader of the newly formed nation and was named Emperor under the name James I. However, his imperial reign was marked by authoritarian and brutal policies, including the massacre of many white settlers and the redistribution of land to peasants that was in the hands of the generals of the independence army. In addition, he organized the hunt for delinquents in the city while implementing rigorous agrarian policies, considering that they represented a threat to the stability of the nation, these controversial actions caused divisions within Haitian society. Dessalines was assassinated on October 17, 1806 following a plot organized by some of his generals in the Haitian army. His death marked the end of his brief but influential period in power. Despite the controversies surrounding his methods, he is recognized as the main architect of Haiti’s independence and his name was honored in 1903 by being attributed to the Haitian national anthem, La Dessalinienne, composed by Justin Lhérisson.Finally, the great visionary man Jean Jacques Dessalines remains an emblematic figure in the history of Haiti, recognized for his role in the fight for independence and the end of slavery in the region.

Black History Month: Two Haitian Dishes You Absolutely Have to Try

Black History Month is the perfect opportunity to celebrate the culture and heritage of Afro-descendant communities through cuisine. Haitian gastronomy, rich in history and flavors, is a reflection of the resilience and identity of the Haitian people. Here are two iconic dishes to discover to honor this celebration.

Haïti Surf in Jacmel, the only place to surf in a zen oasis in Haiti

Haïti Surf, a hidden space on the coast of Jacmel which offers an unforgettable surfing experience in a breathtaking tropical setting. Situated among the crystal clear waves of the Caribbean Sea, Haïti Surf is a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and adventure-seeking travelers.

The 50s parade in Cap-Haïtien for a historic anniversary

To mark the 345th anniversary of Cap-Haïtien, Okap Fashion Men is organizing an exceptional event: a fashion day dedicated to the 50s. This unique event immerses participants in the elegance of a bygone era, where sophistication and refinement were at the heart of fashion.

KSPGKS: An Innovative Campaign to Raise Awareness Among Young People Against HIV/AIDS

HIV/AIDS remains a major threat to public health, especially among young people in Haiti. Faced with this reality, LEAD-ACADEMY, an organization founded in December 2020 by Dwinny Belval, has committed itself through the project “KANPAY SANSIBILIZASYON POU GOUMEN KONT VIH/SIDA” (“Awareness Campaign to Combat HIV/AIDS”). This initiative, launched as part of World HIV/AIDS Day, aims to mobilize Carrefour schoolchildren and promote responsible behavior in the face of this epidemic.

Redefining the image of Haïti on the internet: Yes, we can do it!

Haïti is often viewed online through the prism of poverty, political instability and natural disasters. Although these aspects are part of the Haitian reality, they do not entirely define it. Cultural richness, a glorious past, abundant natural resources, exquisite gastronomy and other attractions are equally important, but unfortunately less publicized, facets.