The Haitian-led dance group La Troupe Zetwal, in partnership with Brooklyn Public Library, Brooklyn Arts Council and the New York City Department of Cultural Affairs held an educational event dedicated to the sacred dance in Prospect Park, on Sept. 19. “Yanvalou: A Sacred Dance of Ayiti,” convened Haitian musicians, dancers and sociologists from across New York City.
Vodou was once blamed for the Haiti earthquake, 10 years later it’s seeing a slow revival
Although Haitian Vodou continues to be misunderstood (and misspelled), it is also experiencing something akin to a revival, both in Haiti and among the Diaspora. The practice has even gained some acceptance among non-Haitians.
Haiti’s explosive Rite of Spring: from pagan Russia to vodou ritual
When Jeanguy Saintus first saw Stravinsky’s Rite, he was reminded of his religion’s initiation ceremonies. Now, he has created his…
Sequined flags depict Haitian Vodou spirits in New Orleans
Fourteen beach-towel-sized flags covered in glittering sequins to evoke the Haitian Vodou spirits called “lwa” – each flag an explosion…
In Haiti, Vodou Celebration Takes Back Seat to Halloween
A few people, their faces whitened with talcum powder, wander the alleyways of the cemetery in Port-au-Prince. They are honoring…
Here and Now Cements Boukman Eksperyans Legacy
With “Here and Now,”Boukman has staked its turf and laid the groundwork for Rasin music to continue in its journey into the hearts and minds of the next generation of music lovers.
Hundreds Make Trip to Souvenance for Annual Vodou Pilgrimage
Hundreds of Haitians made their way to the small village of Souvenance last week for an annual pilgrimage for Vodou practitioners. In the small town located between Gonaïves and Cap-Haïtien, Vodou followers dressed in white, took part in various rituals and expressed their devotion to the spirits.
Vodou Surrealism
By Marcus Rediker Editor’s Note:This essay was originally published on Storyboard, Carnegie Museum of Art’s award-winning online journal. In September…
My Soul In Haiti: A Look At the Haitian Migration Religious Experience In Bahamas
By Fabiola Jean
Historically, the Haitian Diaspora has been concentrated in New York, Miami, Canada and Philadelphia. However, in recent years, studies show Haitian migrants are increasingly travelling to the Bahamas for better opportunities. With this migration shift comes discrimination against Haitians stemming from preconceived notions and stereotypes – specifically in the realm of religious identity.