Breaking Down Walls, Building Bridges
Haiti is frequently viewed through a Western lens, overshadowing its unique narrative. The country itself has struggled to define its narrative on its own terms. As the crises continue, there is a growing sentiment among activists that the solution is to pivot from Western powers to China and Russia. However, this view is shortsighted. These nations, despite their differences, have similar goals of resource extraction and accumulation.
It's crucial to challenge this perspective and regain our agency.
For genuine transformation, we must shift away from this Western dominance and forge our narratives. In line with this vision, I am excited about the upcoming "Breaking Down Walls, Building Bridges" convention in Montreal, Canada, from August 24th to 27th, presenting an opportunity for us to envision Haiti's future together.
Why We Need to Redefine the Discourse
In my travels across African nations, I have seen firsthand the overarching influence of China and Russia. Most of the countries I visited are like Haiti, in that they are largely reliant on major imports overseen by individual investors and conglomerates from India, Libya, France, or Britain. Moreover, the prevailing consumer-centric nature of these countries often benefits foreign entities at the expense of local economies. In a walk through the Makola market in Accra, I would easily estimate that 95% of the goods there are imported. I observed thousands of people engaged in extensive trade, selling a wide variety of items, from small trinkets and household essentials to a vast array of beauty products. Far too many beauty products. However, despite these vendors' hard work and investments, they will struggle to make a meaningful living because they are at the end of the supply chain. This results in billions of dollars leaving Africa for China, just like billions of dollars leave Haiti for the Dominican Republic. This is not a knock on China or the Dominican Republic for pushing their self-interests. Instead, it is a call to action for Africans and Haitians to think about their vision for their countries. We cannot expect other countries to create just and equitable economic systems for our people. It is our responsibility to ensure that Africans and Haitians benefit from their own resources and labor.
A country like Nigeria, which has the largest economy in Africa, is trapped in a cycle of exporting its crude oil and importing refined products. Such practices are not limited to oil but extend to different raw materials from many countries on the continent. This isn't coincidental. There is an economic framework that perpetuates the marginalization of Black countries globally.
Throughout history, we have witnessed a recurring pattern where great Haitian and African leaders, who championed their countries' control over their natural resources, have met tragic fates. These have often been at the hands of their own people, with the support of Western powers.
Let us consider some examples:
Sylvanus Olympio, the President of Togo, was assassinated by General Gnassingbé Eyadema, a dictator backed by the West.
Patrice Lumumba, the leader of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, was killed by Mobutu Sese Seko, who seized power in a coup backed by the West and ruled for decades.
Thomas Sankara of Burkina Faso was assassinated in 1987 by troops led by Blaise Compaoré, who was backed by the West and went on to rule the country for many years.
In Haiti, Emperor Dessalines was assassinated by his own generals, which led to the division of the country into two sections ruled separately by Alexandre Pétion and Henri Christophe. Later, another revolutionary, Charlemagne Péralte, was betrayed by one of his officers, Jean-Baptiste Conzé. Péralte was executed by US Marines, and his body was publicly displayed to discourage opposition to the occupation.
I highlight these historical patterns to underscore the complexities of our past, present, and, most importantly, our future.
All global players have their self-interests at heart. Both China, with its "non-interference" stance, and Russia, through the Wagner Group, support authoritarian regimes that grant them resource access at the expense of the local population.
I believe in our agency but also do not want to overly romanticize it within the broader context of global capitalism. Elites everywhere prioritize wealth accumulation. They often use corruption to skillfully exploit weak public systems and civil servants. This isn't a solely Haitian issue but a universal one.
To transcend this cycle, countries in the Global South must reshape their narratives, emphasizing agency over victimhood, spearheading economic development, and addressing internal divisions.
Shifting to a Haiti-Centered Narrative: The "Breaking Down Walls, Building Bridges" Convention
For Haitians to truly progress, we must transition from a Western-dominant narrative to one where we are the protagonists. Real growth and economic independence mean challenging the status quo, fostering innovation, and uniting despite our differences.
While challenging figures like Ariel Henry is vital, our ultimate aim is to overhaul a self-reinforcing system that allows a few to hold the majority hostage and in abject poverty. This requires cohesive efforts from grassroots movements to national policy-shaping and fostering alliances with like-minded advocates globally. This struggle, therefore, demands not only strategic thinking but also enduring patience.
The forthcoming "Breaking Down Walls, Building Bridges" convention provides a platform to Haitians abroad in solidarity with those on the ground to redefine Haiti's narrative. It aims to unite Haitians globally, discussing the country's challenges and charting its future trajectory. More importantly, it seeks to foster unity within the diverse Haitian community, recognizing that collaboration is key to genuine reform.
For those interested in attending or supporting the convention, you can register or donate at: https://www.diasporahaitienne.com/en/