Northeast Haiti commemorates Dessalines with cultural events, paying homage to his legacy of unity and action 

FORT-LIBERTE — In Haiti’s northeast region, this year’s commemoration of the 218th anniversary of Jean-Jacques Dessalines’ death took on fresh significance, as cultural and humanitarian activities replaced traditional ceremonies, echoing the revolutionary leader’s model of action. Despite fears of unrest and potential violence, students, community members, and local organizations marked the day with a renewed focus on discussing Haiti’s current challenges.

Throughout Ouanaminthe, various groups held discussions on Dessalines’ life, engaged in reforestation projects, and shared plans on humanitarian aid to Haitian migrants recently returning from the Dominican Republic to the region. These efforts not only celebrated and honored Dessalines but also addressed the pressing issues facing the nation, such as the ongoing migration crisis and environmental degradation.

On Oct. 17, At René Théodore High School, students led a “reading without phones” event, emphasizing the importance of understanding Dessalines’ ideas through literature. 

“We mark this historic day by reading to grasp Dessalines’ legacy,” said Delmy Germanson, a professor and writer involved in the initiative. “Through learning about our past, today’s youth can appreciate our identity as a free Black nation.”

In another event, student Judith Rrevilus from Collège Espoir Chrétien in Ouanaminthe spoke passionately about the need for unity in her speech during the cultural activities put together to commemorate the Emperor’s death. 

“In honoring Dessalines’ memory, we renew our commitment to the ideals for which he gave his life. His legacy continues to guide us as we build a united, strong, and prosperous nation.”

Local artists also contributed to the day’s significance, performing traditional music and dance to ensure that the legacy of Haiti’s founding father resonates with future generations.

Remembering Dessalines at the site of the Massacre River

While the city’s streets were filled with energy and purpose, the commemoration events also carried a tone of reflection. It took on additional significance at the Massacre River, a site symbolizing both past struggles and ongoing challenges for the Haitian people. After confronting significant political tensions over the construction of a canal on the river, peasants and local leaders gathered to reflect on Dessalines’ legacy in light of their current struggles.

“Today’s fight is not a coincidence,” said a farmer from the Maribaroux Plain. “It is Dessalines who modeled for us how to come together to move forward. We celebrate all he did so that we can continue our journey.”

However, the atmosphere in Ouanaminthe also mirrored the tension and uncertainty gripping Haiti. Rumors of anti-government protests prompted local authorities to cancel the traditional Tedeum ceremony at Notre Dame de l’Assomption Church. Fears of violence and clashes between demonstrators and police forced the decision, disappointing many who had arrived for the service.

“We came to the Tedeum service, but when we saw nothing was happening at the church, our director gathered us and told us to go home,” said a student from Capois High School.

The mayor of Ouanaminthe, Luma Demetrius, explained the rationale behind the decision. “There were rumors of demonstrations in the city, and to avoid casualties, we canceled the commemorations this year.”

Fort-Liberté keeps up with the tradition and honors Dessalines with Solemn Te Deum 

On the same day, just a short distance away, in the city of Fort-Liberté, the commemorations unfolded more traditionally, with a solemn Te Deum service at Saint-Joseph Cathedral, bringing together officials and community members in a moment of unity and reflection.

“We mark this historic day by reading to grasp Dessalines’ legacy through learning about our past, today’s youth can appreciate our identity as a free Black nation.”

Delmy Germanson, professor and writer.

The cathedral was filled with hymns and prayers, fostering a spirit of reflection on the values Dessalines stood for—courage, unity, and sacrifice.

“In the name of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, I call for a climate of peace and solidarity that will allow us to reunite and celebrate our ‘Pearl of the Antilles,’” urged Louis Jacques Étienne, the mayor of Fort-Liberté, during his address.

Students from local schools participated enthusiastically, their voices merging with those in prayer and song, creating an atmosphere of reverence—especially important given the ongoing challenges of insecurity and recent deportations affecting Haiti.

Dessalines, Haiti’s founding father and first emperor, played a crucial role in the nation’s freedom.

Father Ernest Angrand, the main celebrant, delivered a heartfelt homily highlighting Dessalines’ critical role in Haiti’s struggle for independence. 

“Dessalines symbolizes the courage and determination that stems from love for the nation. His commitment to Haiti’s freedom should inspire us to strive for a united and prosperous future,”  Father Angrand said in front of the enthusiastic crowd. 

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Northeast Haiti commemorates Dessalines with cultural events, paying homage to his legacy of unity and action  was first posted on October 22, 2024 at 8:35 am.