Haiti’s history is one of remarkable contributions to the ideals of liberty and justice, yet its legacy is often ignored or forgotten, particularly in the context of its vital role in the American Revolution and its impact on the development of American society.

While the Haitian people have fought valiantly for freedom, their struggles and sacrifices have been repeatedly overlooked or minimised by both historical narratives and contemporary policies.

This piece aims to highlight the crucial role Haitians played in shaping American freedom, how their contributions were repaid with exploitation and betrayal, and the continued mistreatment they face today in the United States.

Haitian Contributions to American Freedom

The Haitian contribution to the American revolutionary war was indispensable, yet it remains one of the most overlooked aspects of the nation’s fight for independence. Thousands of Haitian soldiers, both enslaved and free, fought alongside French and American forces against British rule. One of the most significant moments of Haitian involvement was during the Battle of Savannah in 1779. About 500 Haitian soldiers, under the command of the French, stood alongside American troops in a battle that proved pivotal to the eventual American victory. These Haitian volunteers fought not only to help the American colonies achieve independence but also to secure their emancipation from the shackles of colonial oppression.

However, despite their contributions, the role of Haitian soldiers has largely been erased from mainstream American historical narratives. This omission reflects a broader disregard for Haiti’s contributions to global freedom movements and an unwillingness to recognise the sacrifices made by people of African descent in the fight for liberty. Their valorous participation in the revolution, which has shaped the very foundation of the United States, deserves recognition and remembrance. Unfortunately, the historical narratives surrounding the founding of America often fail to acknowledge this integral participation.

Haitian Immigrants in New Orleans: Building a Cultural Legacy

Following their participation in the Revolution, many Haitians fled their homeland due to political instability and the harsh conditions imposed by French colonial powers. A significant number of these Haitian refugees settled in New Orleans, where they became instrumental in shaping the city’s culture and economy. New Orleans, a port city with deep ties to the Caribbean, became a focal point for Haitian immigrants who contributed to the city’s dynamic Creole culture.

These immigrants brought with them their culinary traditions, religious practices, and cultural customs, all of which influenced the city’s identity. The Haitian settlers played a key role in the development of Creole culture, a fusion of African, French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences that has become a defining characteristic of New Orleans. From music to food, their influence is still present in the vibrant life of the city today. Yet, despite this profound cultural legacy, the contributions of Haitian immigrants are often overlooked in discussions about New Orleans’ cultural origins.

Haitian Exploitation by French and American Interests

The exploitation of Haiti’s resources and people began long before Haiti’s involvement in the American revolutionary war. Haiti, under French colonial rule, was one of the wealthiest colonies in the world, thanks to the forced labour of enslaved Africans who worked on sugar and coffee plantations. The brutality of the French colonial system left deep scars on Haiti’s social and economic structure, a legacy that continues to hinder the island’s development.

The Haitian Revolution, which culminated in the nation’s independence in 1804, was a monumental achievement, establishing Haiti as the first independent black republic and the first nation to abolish slavery. However, the victory came at an immense cost. After Haiti declared its independence, France imposed a crippling demand for reparations — 150 million francs, a sum equivalent to US$21 billion today. This unjust demand plunged Haiti into debt, crippling its ability to build a sustainable economy and secure its sovereignty.

The United States, fearing the spread of revolutionary ideals, delayed recognising Haiti’s independence for decades. Moreover, during the early 20th century, the US intervened directly by occupying Haiti from 1915 to 1934, seizing control of the country’s infrastructure and resources. This occupation was a period of intensified exploitation, as American interests secured control over Haitian agriculture and institutions, further cementing the island’s economic dependency on foreign powers. These actions continued to hinder Haiti’s development and perpetuated a cycle of economic and political instability that persists today.

The Continued Marginalisation of Haitian Immigrants in the United States

Fast-forward to the present, and the treatment of Haitian immigrants in the US starkly contrasts with their historical contributions. Over the years, Haitian immigrants have faced consistent discrimination and marginalisation.

The 2010 earthquake, which devastated Haiti, led to a surge of Haitian refugees seeking refuge in the United States, many of whom were granted Temporary Protected Status (TPS). However, during the Donald Trump Administration, the TPS designation for Haitians was revoked, leaving many immigrants vulnerable to deportation despite the ongoing challenges in Haiti.

The refusal to acknowledge the historical contributions of Haitians, coupled with discriminatory immigration policies, reveals a pattern of systemic racism and xenophobia. Haitian immigrants, despite their crucial role in the fight for freedom and their ongoing contributions to American society, are often portrayed as burdens rather than valued members of the community. This narrative reflects broader racial prejudices that seek to diminish the contributions of black immigrants to the fabric of American life.

Addressing the Legacy of Haitian Contributions

The failure to recognise Haiti’s historical importance, both in the context of American independence and global movements for freedom, speaks to a broader issue of historical erasure and systemic injustice. As a society, we must confront the reality that Haitians have been subjected to exploitation, both historically and contemporarily, by powers such as France and the United States. Moreover, their ongoing struggles are exacerbated by discriminatory immigration policies and an overarching culture of racism.

To truly honour Haiti’s contributions, we must not only acknowledge its historical significance but also advocate for fair and just treatment of Haitian immigrants. Policies that promote inclusivity, respect, and recognition of Haitian communities are crucial steps towards addressing the injustices they have faced. Haiti’s legacy, as one of the most resilient and revolutionary nations in the history of the Americas, deserves recognition, and the Haitian people must be treated with the dignity they deserve.

Recognition, Reparation, and Justice

The Haitian people’s contributions to American freedom, culture, and independence cannot be overstated. From their crucial involvement in the American Revolution to their transformative role in the development of New Orleans, Haitians have been instrumental in shaping the nation. However, despite these contributions, they have been met with exploitation, neglect, and continued mistreatment.

It is time to rectify the historical amnesia and address the deep-seated inequities that have shaped Haiti’s relationship with France, the US, and the international community. We must advocate for justice, recognition, and reparation to ensure that the Haitian people receive the acknowledgement and respect they rightfully deserve.

Only through these efforts can we ensure that Haiti’s legacy is no longer forgotten or diminished but celebrated as an integral part of the history of freedom and justice for all.

Dr Clovis B Nelson is a certified member of the Think Tank on Global Education (Harvard Graduate School of Education). Send comments to the Jamaica Observer or clovisnel737@gmail.com.