Celebrating Haiti; The First Black Republic

Pierre, Stephanie. "Original Photo of Jean Jacques Dessalines Portrait". 2022, Little Haiti BK, New York.

The Haitian Revolution is the largest and most successful slave rebellion in the Western Hemisphere. The enslaved initiated the rebellion in August 1791 and by 1803 had succeeded in ending not just slavery but French control over the colony. Led by former slave Toussaint L'Ouverture, the enslaved first rebelled against the planters on August 21, 1791 after a ceremony at Bwa Kayiman, an alligator forest where a conglomerate of enslaved persons from West African nations, maroons, and indigenous people conspired for freedom. L’Overture was lured to France under false pretenses and was captured and jailed until his death in 1803. Jean Jacques Dessalines, one of L'Ouverture's generals and himself a former slave, led the revolutionaries at the Battle of Vertieres on November 18, 1803 where the French were defeated. On January 1, 1804, Dessalines declared the nation independent and renamed it Ayiti, it's original Taino name, and emerged as the first black republic in the world.

The much-anticipated Haitian Heritage Parade is the grand stand of the month-long Haitian Heritage Month celebration. Since the first celebration in Boston in 1998, in the month of May, a series of programs and events are held to cultivate, build on, and share the history, culture, and contributions to the world by individuals of Haitian descent. Over the years we have seen an immeasurable transformation in the acceptance of the Haitian community; yet there is still much to be achieved. Haiti’s significant and deep-rooted history was once tarnished by stereotypes, misconceptions, and numerous natural disasters. This parade is an important opportunity to share the stories that culminate lived experiences, rising above adversity, the Haitian way of life and the beauty in its unique identity.

All Roads Lead To Central Park, NYC!

The inaugural Haitian Heritage Parade theme is Haiti: The Mother of Freedom. This year's momentous occasion is certain to be one of the most memorable cultural events in NYC as its aim is not only to highlight Haiti's rich history but also illuminate its connection to the global community through the theme of liberation. Not only can parade attendees expect to be entertained by star-stellar presentations showcasing a collection of today’s renowned talent, contemporary artists and performers of Haitian descent, but they can also expect to see themselves reflected in the storytelling of how the first Black Republic came to be.

Meet Our Artistic Curator

Erol Josué

Erol Josué is described as a spiritual leader and pillar amongst the Haitian creative community. From his riveting performances at landmark locations such as Lincoln Center, he engages audiences worldwide with his inspirational sounds of music and dance. In his role as Director of the National Bureau of Ethnology, he helps to expand the dialogue regarding Haitian Vodou culture through showcases spotlighting elements of Vodou ritual in a clear and engaging fashion. Each presentation draws from personal experience, stemming from his many decades as a performer and his success in playwrighting and arts presenter. He is also credited with introducing Haitian culture to various universities internationally and affiliating organizations.

meet our costume designer

Michel Chataigne

Michel Chataigne is Haiti's premier fashion icon and curator of Haiti's very first Fashion week. Not only will Michel curate the costumes on the parade route but he will also showcase works of art through contemporary fashion. The industry is once again recalibrating and fashion frontiers such as Michel are amongst the leaders of unique styles and daring trends. Guests can expect to be wowed by unique pieces designed by Haiti's most dynamic and cutting edge artists.

New York City's Inaugural Haitian Heritage Parade