The Haitian Times releases its Pulitzer Center-supported “Distant Neighbors” series that explores the complex relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti 

The editorial series delves into the conflicts, border wars and Twitter tiffs, and shows the Haitian faces not often seen in debates about the Dominican Republic and Haiti, offering an insightful analysis of these neighboring nations at a pivotal moment.

NEW YORK, June 20, 2023 — The Haitian Times, a leading source of news and analysis on Haiti and its Diaspora, is excited to announce today the launch of an editorial series titled, Distant Neighbors. This compelling series of stories delves into the complex relationship between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, shedding light on historical, social, cultural, and economic aspects that have shaped their intertwined destinies. 

“Haiti and the DR share a fascinating history and several current symbiotic relationships, including a joint labor force and trading,” said Macollvie J. Neel, executive editor of The Haitian Times. “Knowing there’s more to the feuds that get coverage, we wanted to understand what’s behind the latest escalation and, more importantly, highlight those stories unfolding under the radar to help move us away from the Twitter tiffs  toward more meaningful conversations.”

Distant Neighbors examines the captivating history and present-day intricacies that bind Haiti and the Dominican Republic together. With support from the Pulitzer Center, Haiti-based staff reporters, Onz Chery and Marvens Compère, traveled to the Dominican Republic to delve into the latest rise in tensions between the nations and explore the role of the Haitian elite versus the scapegoating of low-income Haitian laborers. 

The multimedia series features 12 stories, including interactive visuals, photo essays, and intimate video profiles of Haitians and Dominicans alike. The first half of the series publishes this June, and the second half is slated for the Fall, culminating in a community forum discussing the report’s main findings. 

“We believe that through this series, we can bridge divides and foster meaningful conversations, promoting unity and collaboration between our two homelands,” added Neel. “Ultimately, we hope it helps turn around the mindsets of those who cherish one side of the border, but discount the experiences of the other side. We must make that the narrative for the sake of our brothers, sisters, and cousins on both sides of the island.”

Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Garry Pierre-Pierre, founder and publisher of The Haitian Times, said this type of in-depth reporting about Haiti and the Dominican Republic is long overdue and he hopes it’ll spark similar projects to enlighten audiences and policymakers so they can be more discerning when navigating personalities seeking to represent either nation.

“I’ve always been fascinated by these two countries and, after seeing this reportage, I know others will be equally intrigued,” said Pierre-Pierre. “I hope readers and viewers will see both Haitians and Dominicans in a more positive light, no matter where they are now in terms of their perspectives.”  

The Haitian Times invites readers, scholars, experts, and all those interested in the dynamics between Haiti and the Dominican Republic to engage with the series and join the dialogue on social media using #DISTANTNEIGHBORS. The stories will be available on The Haitian Times for free starting June 20, 2023.

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ABOUT THE HAITIAN TIMES

The Haitian Times is the leading news outlet covering the Haitian Diaspora globally. Our mission is to bridge the generational and geographical gaps among Haitians, and tell the real story of Haiti through a human-first perspective. Founded in 1999 in Brooklyn, New York as a weekly publication, The Haitian Times has evolved from a local newspaper to a global media brand covering the community’s evolution across borders. Follow us on Twitter @HaitianTimes_ Instagram @HaitianTimes, and TikTok @thehaitiantimes.