CARNIVAL IN HAITI
Artwork: "Carnival in Cape Haitian" by Rony Leonidas
Earlier this month, Haiti observed it's most important cultural event, Carnival. Similar to the Carnaval Celebrations in Brazil or the Mardi Gras celebrations down in New Orleans, Carnival here is a weeklong celebration preceding the Lent period in the Catholic faith. While Lent is a period dedicated to demonstrating one’s restraint and self discipline, Carnival season is a period dedicated to freedom and renewal. For Haiti, the spirit of freedom intensified by its history of slavery. During the colonial period, slave owners prohibited slaves from taking part in Carnival celebrations. As a result, slaves staged their own smaller celebrations, using rags to create costumes and grease to mimic face paint, a testament of Haitian resilience.
Haitian carnival has obviously exploded in the modern day. It has a unique flair that separates it from other Carnivals around the globe. It beautifully blends traditional practices from Africa, Europe, and most importantly, Haitian ancestors. Haitians celebrate Carnival with parades, parties, costumes, and performances. Music is one of the key elements of Carnival. Common genres you’ll hear throughout different celebrations include Zouk, Kreyòl Rap, and Konpa.
One day, we dream of celebrating Carnival in a renewed nation. Yet, even now, we admire our people's remarkable ability to find joy amid adversity—a true reflection of the Haitian spirit.
