Haitian-American artists Vladimir Cybil Charlier and Rejin Leys have engaged in a thought-provoking dialogue about the current anti-Haitian and anti-immigrant sentiment in the United States. Their artistic practices are deeply rooted in their identities as Haitian-Americans, and they seek to address the socio-political issues affecting their community through their work.
Vladimir Cybil Charlier reflects on her personal history and the legacy of her family’s immigration to the United States. Her art is influenced by her experiences as a “half generation” Haitian-American, with roots dating back to her great-uncle’s house in Brooklyn, a hub for new Haitian arrivals during the Harlem Renaissance. Charlier’s series, Indigo Blues, explores themes of diasporic identity and resistance, drawing parallels between the denim she uses in her work and the uniforms of Papa Doc’s Tonton Macoutes.
Rejin Leys shares her family’s immigration story, which coincided with a tumultuous period in Haiti’s history. Despite being born in the US, Leys grew up hearing tales of Haiti’s past glory, only later uncovering the hardships her family faced during their journey to America. Her artwork, such as Lost Continents Message in a Bottle, delves into themes of migration and displacement, highlighting the resilience of the Haitian community in the face of adversity.
Both artists critique the negative stereotypes and xenophobic rhetoric that have plagued Haitian immigrants for centuries. They challenge the dehumanizing language used to describe Haitians, from “boat people” to “mud-eaters,” emphasizing the rich cultural contributions of Haitian-Americans to American society. Through their art, Charlier and Leys celebrate the resilience and strength of the Haitian diaspora, shedding light on the interconnected histories of Haiti and the United States.
As Haiti continues to be portrayed as a cautionary tale by the Western world, Charlier and Leys remind us of the enduring struggles faced by African-American and Indigenous communities in the US. They reject the hateful rhetoric of politicians like Donald Trump and JD Vance, affirming that Haitians are integral to the fabric of American history. By reclaiming their narratives through art, Charlier and Leys challenge stereotypes and advocate for the recognition and dignity of the Haitian people.
In a world where borders and divisions are constantly reinforced, Charlier and Leys assert the timeless presence of Haitian culture and heritage. They honor the legacies of historical figures like Toussaint Louverture and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, affirming that the children of Haiti are here to stay, shaping the cultural landscape of the United States for generations to come.
