The Shifting Role of the Haitian Diaspora in U.S. Politics

Title: The Shifting Role of the Haitian Diaspora in U.S. Politics

By: the Haitian-Americans for Progress (HAP)

Overview:

Haitian Americans for Progress is a Florida Political Committee dedicated to empowering Haitian Americans across the United States and increasing awareness of issues that impact their community and personal living. The empowerment of Haitian Americans is inclusive of the role that we play on U.S. Politics; therefore it is imperative to discuss this matter in a panel forum.

In the United States, political activism is a gateway for our communities to get involved in the political process. It consists of efforts to promote, impede, or direct social, economic, or environmental change. As one author stated, “Activism is action that goes beyond conventional politics, typically being more energetic, passionate, innovative, and committed. In systems of representative government, conventional politics includes election campaigning, voting, passing laws, and lobbying politicians.” As two generations of Haitian Americans, it is critical that we be apart of that process by raising money for politicians who believe in our ideals, increase voter engagement and visibility, and strategically identify tactics that will position us to “sit at the table”. Beyond the rhetoric of politics, the shifting role of the Haitian Diaspora in U.S. politics will require that we participate on the front end, which for us, has not been done. This includes: considering the role of Haitian women in politics, changing dynamics of Generation YZ, and the influence of art, music and media politics on the youth.

Moderator: TBA

Participants:

  • Cassandra Theramene, Ed.D, MBA, Executive Director, Scholars Today, Leaders of Tomorrow, Inc. & International Business Developer, EDMC
  • Jean Monestime, Chairman of the Miami-Dade Board of County Commissioners
  • Michelle Austin Pamies, Esq., Austin Pamies Norris, Weeks, LLC
  • Larry Pierre, M.D., M.P.H., Executive Director, Center for Haitian Studies, Health & Human Services
  • JP Austin, M.D., Physician, 21st Century Oncology

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