One historical event that is agreed upon, but whose impact remains unrecognized, is the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804).  What began as a slave uprising led to the defeat of France under Napoleon Bonaparte, and established the first independent black republic in the western hemisphere. 

The Haitian Revolution forever changed the face of the Americas and the world, but few know the names of heroes like Makandal (Vwa Ayiti’s Logo) the slave who sounded the call to freedom, or great military leaders like Toussaint L'Ouverture or Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who ultimately defeated Napoleon’s mighty armies.

Embracing and celebrating this rich culture is key to both Vwa Ayiti's mission and success.

In September 2006, we sponsored a weeklong educational and cultural celebration.  The event centered around the painting of a historical mural in the center of Labadi.

The event energized the whole community…spontaneous outbursts of song, dance, and historical rap kept the work and celebration going around the clock.  The Wall remains a powerful source of pride, a tourist attraction, and a vivid reminder of Haiti’s magnificent history and culture.

In March 2007, Vwa Ayiti once again sponsored a cultural and historical celebration in Labadi. For years the few cruise lines that visited Haiti often told visitors they were on the island of Hispañola.  Although Labadi and the Cap-Haitien areas are dependent on income from these tourists, it has long served as a national insult.