Haiti, facts and fiction w/ Dan Cohen and Kim Ives (Live)
Mar 21, 2024
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Journalists and filmmakers Dan Cohen and Kim Ives discuss Haiti's political landscape, including drug gangs' control, past regimes like the Duvaliers, and US involvement. They explore the controversial reputation of 'Barbecue' and a community-led initiative for clean water. The Clintons' connection to Haiti, NGO initiatives, and global political tensions are also covered.
Grassroots movements in Haiti challenge systemic corruption and foreign influence, symbolizing a revolutionary movement against oppression.
Aristide's political journey exposes US intervention in Haiti and the impact of neoliberal reforms compromising progressive ideals.
Haiti's current uprising offers a chance for substantial change, reflecting a revolutionary process rooted in the country's rich history.
Deep dives
Jimmy Cherries EA and the Uprising in Haiti
Jimmy Cherries EA, a former police officer in Haiti, rose to prominence leading an anti-gang unit. Facing a corrupted system, he united armed groups to fight against criminal elements aligned with the elites. Cherries EA's efforts aimed to challenge the foreign intervention in Haiti and improve the living conditions of the people, particularly in the slums where basic services were lacking. His strategic alliances and resistance against the establishment symbolize a revolutionary movement against oppression and foreign influence.
Aristide's Political Legacy and Challenges in Haiti
Aristide, an influential liberation theologian priest from the slums of La Saline, emerged as a popular leader in Haiti's political landscape. His election victory faced opposition from the United States, leading to a coup against him. Despite returning to power under US pressure, Aristide's reliance on neoliberal reforms compromised his initial progressive stance. The introduction of a UN peacekeeping force violated the Haitian constitution and contributed to the weakened state governance in Haiti.
Future Prospects and Revolutionary Path for Haiti
Haiti's current state reflects a revolutionary process with the people rising against systemic corruption and foreign interference. The ongoing uprising presents an opportunity for potential change and substantive growth in the country, challenging the existing power dynamics. While facing external pressures and potential resistance, the Haitian population's grassroots movements and alliances signal a revolutionary path forward, aiming to establish a government connected to the realities of Haiti and fostering economic and social progress.
US Role in Haiti's Political Landscape
The podcast delves into the role of the US in shaping Haiti's political landscape, highlighting how the US has influenced Haitian politics by training a soft power class to vie for power. The US planned to install friendlier faces of liberal imperialism through figures like Ariela and Ria, viewed as transitional figures. The discussion points out the pushback from some US-trained entities as they feel threatened by potential revolutionary movements in Haiti.
Hope and Revolutionary Essence in Haiti
The conversation touches upon the historical significance of the Haitian Revolution, emphasizing how Haitians take pride in their revolutionary heritage. Haitians are described as embodying a rebellious revolutionary essence since the successful slave revolution in 1804. Despite challenges, there is hope for a revolutionary process in Haiti, fueled by the country's rich history and the potential for positive change amid geopolitical shifts.