NEW YORK — The organizers of New York’s Labor Day carnival have suspended three prominent Haitian bands—T-Vice, TonyMix, and SakPase—from participating in this year’s event, citing violations of safety regulations and costume requirements. However, representatives from two of the affected bands strongly dispute these reasons, claiming that the suspensions are rooted in bias against the Haitian community.
According to Cecille Ford, the board secretary and chair of mas for the West Indian American Day Carnival Association (WIADCA), the decision was made due to safety concerns. Ford stated that the bands did not comply with regulations regarding the number of individuals allowed on their floats, which poses security risks. “Our parade is really a costumed parade and they did not comply with that either,” she explained. Ford emphasized that the rules had been communicated to the bands in advance, noting that officials had urged compliance in the previous year.
Despite the official reasons provided, Johnny Joseph, the manager for TonyMix, described the suspension as “unprofessional” and indicative of a deeper issue targeting Haitian performers. He asserted that the timing of the suspension—communicated only in August, shortly before the event—has negatively impacted fans and local vendors reliant on carnival crowds for income. Joseph argued that the exclusion of major Haitian bands diminishes the festival’s appeal and claimed that previous measures were taken to adhere to safety practices.
James Francois, CEO of Sak Pase, voiced similar concerns, labeling the suspension as politically motivated and denouncing Ford’s statements as “bogus.” Francois insisted that his band also complied with costume requirements and had limited attendance on their float. Both Francois and Joseph suggest that the decision may reflect an effort to diminish the representation of Haitian culture within the carnival, particularly ahead of its 60th anniversary next year.
Amidst allegations of bias, particularly towards Haitian and Jamaican groups, Ford categorically denied any discriminatory motives. She reiterated that the suspensions were strictly a matter of rule violations. “To craft the story that we are not inclusive of the community is really incorrect,” she said.
As the carnival approaches, five other Haitian bands—Ram, Lespri Ayiti/Team Madada, RockFam, KG, and Lamar—have been confirmed to participate. Mickael Marabou, WIADCA’s liaison for the Haitian community, expressed hope for future collaboration to ensure that the affected bands can rectify their issues and rejoin next year.
Why It Matters
The suspension of T-Vice, TonyMix, and SakPase has sparked discussions regarding representation, safety, and cultural authenticity in major events like the Labor Day carnival. With over one million attendees expected, the decisions made by carnival officials may significantly influence the experience of the Haitian community and their cultural expression within the parade.
