The Haitian-Dominican Open Forum was first organized by Alba Mota,
Kaity Trinidad, and Mathylde Frontus, graduate students at Columbia
University, Ruthzee Louijeune, Jennifer Calvin, Holly Guzman, Rosemary
Almonte, Winnie Siclait, undergraduates at Columbia University, Alix
Almonord, undergraduate at Long Island University, Prof. Nicole Falade
at Long Island University, and Marta Esquilin, Associate Director of
the Columbia University Office of Multicultural Affairs in 2006.
This event brought together members of the Haitian and Dominican
community in New York, and featured prominent speakers,such as Dr.
Henry Frank, Executive Director of Haitian Center Council, Dr. Rosario
Espinal, Sociology Professor at Temple University, and Felix Augustin,
Consul of the Consul General of New York. Through this event, we
established many connections throughout the community, many of which
looked forward to our next event. After two years, we have brought it
back in hopes of continuing strengthening the ties we established with
our first open forum.
These events are part of a larger goal executed by Columbia students of
Haitian and Dominican descent, which can be summarized in two main
points:
1. We believe that it
is essential to reach a mutual and clear
understanding of this island historical perspective as an island/two
nations, followed by an update of the current socioeconomic and
political situations maintaining both nations torn and in misery;
2. Sketch a proactive
plan and transform it into a concrete instrument
that would temper the discord between Dominicans and Haitians and open
the lines of communication between the communities, both in the States
and on the island.
Please use the links above to view information on our events,
schedules, and contact information.
