4 Things to Know About the #freeHaiti Movement
As political unrest continues in Haiti, it's more important now than ever to understand the crux of the conflict, how to support and why.
Ruth Jean-Marie
Haiti - the Caribbean country that shares an island with the Dominican Republic - is in the headlines for its dedication to safety and overall peace. Haiti has also been in headlines for the increase in kidnappings, gang violence and purported political corruption.
The hashtag #freeHaiti trended this year on social media and even garnered support from major celebrities like Cardi B, Bobby Schmurda and Safaree. While the Miami Herald is referring to this as Haiti’s “latest crisis” (and to be fair, protests occur frequently and unsurprisingly there given Haiti’s history of revolution) many in Haiti are hoping that this will be the last.
Several factors cause this social-media-based call for freedom. To enact real change and provide real support, here’s what you need to know:
1. Gang Violence is Persisting
Earlier this month, five police officers were murdered during a raid gone wrong in the capital city of Port-Au-Prince. Amidst the violence, gang members allegedly took hold of high-power weapons and an armored truck that was later retrieved. A mother pleaded on national radio for the return of her police officer son’s body and the police inspector was accused of leading the ambush.
This high level of violence and disregard shook citizens to the core.
In addition to the most recent murders of police officers, gangs have become more emboldened, accessing military-grade weapons and with significant ties to politicians.
2. Kidnappings Have Increased
For-ransom kidnappings have increased according to several sources. This includes one of the most recent kidnappings of two Dominican filmmakers and their Haitian interpreter. Oftentimes, these kidnappings result in the gang rape and murder of women. The kidnapping and murder of Evelyn Sinere, known for her dedication to academics, in 2020 shook the world. The revelation of the perpetrator, her boyfriend and his brothers, served as a reminder of what was becoming a norm.
The #freeHaiti movement calls for an end to this continued abuse of women and the end of kidnapping in general.
3. There is a Growing Fear of Impending Dictatorship
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Ruth Jean-Marie is a first-generation Haitian-American and an international development consultant. She founded The August Project to create education and growth opportunities in Haiti through philanthropic efforts and strategic partnerships. Her written work has been featured by Blavity and Travel Noire.