Hosting the Haitian Cultural Panorama on, May 22, 2013 was an honor and a dream come true on many levels. For starters it was my first time hosting a major event and the fact that it was based on my culture put the cherry on top. To be honest I was not nervous at all, not one bit. Well a little. I did feel a bit out of place since the last 24 hours leading towards the event felt as if my life was on fast forward. The performers and speakers were top notch. I really loved it – everyone did.

Gonzales Joseph gave a wonderful presentation in Creole and in English on the Haitian flag which was enlightening. The creation and meaning behind the colorful flag, “L’Union fait la force,” is very intriguing.

Performances & Speeches at the Haitian Cultural Panorama

Dezign Nation, a fashion modeling organization did a wonderful presentation on the women of the Haitian Revolution. The contributions women made during and that war. Saskya Sky (singing sensation) and Mecca aka Grimmo (rapper) both gave wonderful artistic performances.

One of the funniest moments was when I gave the introduction to a role model/poet, Javy, and he wasn’t there, yet. I was three quarters into his intro and the organizer Nadine Robinson, of the event finally whispered in my ear, “he isn’t here yet.” The crowd busted out in laughter and I had no choice but to laugh too.

The Haitian cuisine by Chef was fabulous! The music was excellent and most importantly the audience had fun while being educated. I was able to establish myself as a preeminent figure in the Haitian-American community and not just the black community.

Researching and learning about General Toussaint L’Ouventure was the highlight of the event for me. I was intoxicated with knowledge of what this general did for the future of the human race. One lesson that I learned from the event is that people love to have their spirits uplifted. With the collaboration of everyone that was there we had such a wonderful experience – a Touchdown for Haiti!

“Slavery anywhere is a threat to freedom everywhere.” – General Toussaint L’Ouventure