Dear Readers,
As editor of art and culture, I write today not from a place of exclusive archival access to history, but as an individual sharing a collective heritage with every person of the Black race. My narration begins as a Haitian, hailing from the first Black nation that bravely defied and rejected the colonialism rule at its onset.
In this endeavor to articulate our history, Haiti often faced within the signature of navigating narratives shaped prior 1804 and the precedent years and as of presently. The history I know, and the stories I tell, are frequently tinted by the lens of conflicting with how even the nation of Haiti leads life today, making the task of understanding a triumphant past appears complex.
Yet, it is with a careful sentiment and profound respect of Haiti’s past that I selected these words.
As I delve into the depths of Black History Month, as its commemoration begins on February 1, of a month-long celebration, draws its closing today on March 1, and being Black carries forward the lessons and inspirations into the rest of the year and beyond.
I want to remember that Black history is not confined to the pages of history books. It resonates in one’s daily lives, in one’s culture, and in one’s indomitable spirit. It’s a history of resilience, of courage, and of an unyielding dedication to acquire justice.
My Haitian history is an admission to this resilience. Haiti, the torchbearers of freedom and to be independent. Its lineage is one of determination, and it is these values that it carries forward as a “L’union fait la Force” nation and as a people, embalming under the palm tree of the Haitian flag.
This month-long commemorates a pledge to continue exploring the past, understanding this present, and shaping the most hopeful future. Black people will strive to bring to light the untold stories, which connects the unseen milestones of the journey ahead.
In this journey of exploration and understanding, I invite you as readers, to join this sentiment. To learn together, to grow together, and remember that Black history is a living narrative that continues to evolve.
At MagHaiti/US’ publication, the power of storytelling helps to enlighten, to inspire, and to heal. This month, I was committed to amplifying the stories of Black individuals – within triumphs, joys, and hopes. To the Black readers, I want to say: your stories matter, your experiences matter, and your voices matter.
The month of Black History was nothing less than a reflection to educate of the rich tapestry of Black history and culture. A call to action to have meaningful conversations about race and equality. Most importantly, this is an opportunity to listen, to understand, and to act.
To leave you with this thought and a quote that Black History Month is not just about remembering; it’s about understanding. It’s about recognizing the strength and resilience of the Black community, celebrating achievements, and being in solidarity. Dr. Martin Luther King: “The arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends towards justice.” As I personally have this homage to Black History Month, I feel that I also remember that the work is far from over. I will continue to bend that arc, and so should you.
I want to express my deepest gratitude and thanks of the significant, constructive contributions of Black individuals to history. However, I also acknowledge the forceful circumstances under which many of these contributions were made. As this letter honors Black History Month, I reflect on a time toward a more equitable future.
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