World Forum of the Haitian Diaspora Highlights Cultural Unity and Future Initiatives

The World Forum of the Haitian Diaspora (FOMADA) took place from August 27 to 29 at the Sheraton Hotel in Laval, Quebec, Canada. The event featured Emmanuel Ménard, the Minister of Culture and Communication, as the guest of honor. Delegations from various countries attended the forum, emphasizing the importance of solidarity among Haitian communities across the globe.

Minister Ménard’s Address and Future Plans

During the opening reception, Minister Ménard praised the ongoing support that members of the Haitian diaspora extend to their families in Haiti. He encouraged diaspora associations to join forces and optimize their resources to foster community growth and development. The Minister also called upon cultural operators, artists, and artisans to draw from Haiti’s rich history and heritage to inspire their work.

“Haiti can achieve the miracle of establishing itself as a cultural powerhouse,” Ménard stated. He highlighted the commitment of Prime Minister Alix Didier Fils-Aimé’s government to support public policies aimed at promoting Haitian culture, despite the nation’s current challenges.

In alignment with these goals, Minister Ménard announced a pilot project designed to establish a “Haitian Cultural Center” (CHAC). The center aims to create new opportunities for Haitian artists and to ensure the global dissemination of Haitian culture.

During his visit, Ménard engaged with various organizations in Montreal and Laval, including “La Perle Retrouvée.” He also met with sculptor Anioclès Grégoire, who is working on a new 24-meter bronze statue of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, intended to replace a previous statue that was vandalized in Cap-Haitien.

Further, Ménard had discussions with Senator Suze Youance, a Haitian-origin senator, and held working sessions with Kurdy Larèche, the Coordinator of the Forum. These discussions focused on the cultural center’s implementation in Canada and explored significant investment opportunities in Haiti.

Why It Matters

The World Forum of the Haitian Diaspora serves as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration among Haitian communities worldwide. By emphasizing cultural heritage and unity, initiatives like the Haitian Cultural Center promise to enhance global understanding and appreciation of Haitian art and culture. Furthermore, these efforts could contribute to economic development in Haiti through increased investment opportunities.