A DC politico reflects on the Haitian presence at the DNC | Opinion 

By Wen-kuni Céant, Guest Author

CHICAGO—Last week, I had the opportunity to participate on a panel about civics and technology at the Democratic National Convention. As a Haitian American, being part of such a significant political event, the experience was profound both for my identity and aspirations. I found it empowering, yet humbling. 

Empowering because watching someone like me – a Black woman, a person of Caribbean descent, a fellow Howard University alum – receive the historic nomination for President of the United States of America is a reminder of the unique role immigrants and their descendants play in this democracy.

Yet, it was also humbling because of how we blend in. Just by looking at the group of Black people at the convention, you can’t tell who may be African American, Haitian American, Jamaican American or from any other immigrant background. Under this big political party tent, dozens of such communities of color exist, each with a key issue on top of the day-to-day concerns. 

This visual reminded me that even as the number of Haitian American numbers are growing and despite Haiti and Haitians being present at the highest levels, Haiti’s future remains uncertain. We are doing our part as individuals by performing our civic duty. But it still feels very silent – like a hidden vote – because under a big political party tent, dozens of communities like ours exist across the nation.

Overall, the experience reinforces why we must continue to watch closely and participate loudly. We must recognize that the future of Haiti remains deeply intertwined with the outcome of the U.S. elections and look towards Tuesday, November 5, keenly aware that our votes will play a crucial role in shaping U.S. policy towards Haiti and hopefully bring forth meaningful change.

Wen-kuni Ceant is the CEO and Co-Founder of Politicking–a sociopolitical mobile application that demystifies the voting and political process. 

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