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.
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.
When Jeanguy Saintus first saw Stravinsky’s Rite, he was reminded of his religion’s initiation ceremonies. Now, he has created his…
Fourteen beach-towel-sized flags covered in glittering sequins to evoke the Haitian Vodou spirits called “lwa” – each flag an explosion…
A few people, their faces whitened with talcum powder, wander the alleyways of the cemetery in Port-au-Prince. They are honoring…
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 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.
By Marcus Rediker Editor’s Note:This essay was originally published on Storyboard, Carnegie Museum of Art’s award-winning online journal. In September…
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.