By Cameron Pierre-Pierre
Donald J. Trump will be the president of the United States of America. These are words I thought I would never have to say. These are words I never wanted to say. Unfortunately, at the moment, I don’t really have a choice.
Opinion, Politics
Two elections, Two different results: How will the Trump Presidency affect Haiti?
By Francois Pierre-Louis In the last month, Haitian-Americans have experienced two presidential elections that will fundamentally affect their future. On November 8, 2016, the United States of America held its presidential election. Although the major polling institutions projected Hillary Clinton to win over Donald Trump, the result was far different than most people had…
New York, Opinion
An Open Letter to New York City Immigrant Communities
To New York City’s Immigrant Communities: During these uncertain times we must remind ourselves of who we are as a city and hold steadfast to the values that we cherish and hold dear. The values of hard work, respect and coming together during times of adversity define us as New Yorkers. That will not change,…
Opinion, Politics
Brace Yourself Haiti
By Jocelyn McCalla
]Haitians can say goodbye to Temporary Protected Status (TPS). In the aftermath of the 2010 earthquake, President Barack Obama saw fit to use his discretion to grant this exceptional status to Haitians stranded in the US because of the extensive damage suffered by their country. The operative keyword is discretionary authority. At his discretion the president can grant TPS for a period of 18 months — which Obama did in 2010 — and extend this status for another 18 months or less depending on whether conditions in the country under consideration have sufficiently improved to allow an orderly return of the individual beneficiaries. President Trump is unlikely to extend TPS further for Haitians. In fact, he is unlikely to extend TPS for many other nationals who have benefited from such a measure.
Arts & Culture, Opinion
Caribbean Version of Vagina Monologues Highlights Domestic Violence In Haitian Community
By Fabienne Colas
Haiti is known for many things; for its food, its music, its art and its people, who stay continuously resilient in the face of political and socioeconomic turmoil. However one aspect of Haitian culture that is kept in the shadows, is the misogynic ideals that are interwoven in the culture, and rears itself in various forms of abuse against women.
Opinion
My Haitian-American Journey Realizing Our Individual Dreams Can Benefit Everyone in our Communities
By Jacques Jiha, Commissioner, NYC Department of Finance
Born in Haiti, I came to this country when I was 21 years old to further my education. I paid my way through school working as a parking lot attendant, earning a bachelor’s in economics from Fordham University, and then a master’s and Ph.D. at the New School for Social Research.
Opinion, Women & Children
We Must Respond To Young Women of Color
By New York City Council Speaker Melissa Mark-Viverito
The future of our City depends on the success of young people today. But instead of being able to focus on their aspirations, many girls and women, particularly those of color, are battling challenges rooted in gender, sex and race discrimination. Poverty, sexual violence and poor health outcomes stand squarely in the way of their success. For young women from immigrant families, these challenges are complicated by immigration status and language barriers. This has to change.
Opinion
Political Gridlock in Haiti Leaves a Bleak Future For The Youth
By Henry Beaucejour A very old problem People tend to give the earthquake of 2010 the blame for everything happening in Haiti, but the problems facing the youth of this country goes back a lot further than that. One of the issues which should receive significant consideration is what exactly are the challenges which have…
Opinion
Haiti A Long Dreadful Search For Good Leaders
By Henry Beaucejour
Firstly, we need to define “good” as in a good leader. It is reasonable to construct a definition based on the assessment that such a leader left the nation better than he or she found it. This requires an individual whose commitment to Haiti and Haitian people surpasses their commitment to their own selfish desires.
Opinion
Cutting The Cost Of Citizenship In The Immigration Capital Of The World
By New York City Comptroller Scott M. Stringer
For centuries, countless immigrants, including the 3.5 million that today call New York City home, have brought culture, ideas, innovation, and an entrepreneurial spirit to neighborhoods across the five boroughs, building communities and embedding themselves in the social fabric of the City.