On the subject of Double Nationality for Haitians…

On the subject of Double Nationality for Haitians…

      In the years spent away from Haiti, many Haitians have become naturalized citizens of other countries, and have been born abroad. Though there are many Haitian who are happy to have left Haiti behind, many more long for the day they can safely go back to Haiti. In essence, “going back” to Haiti is not just part of the “Haitian” dream, but it is also part of the “American” dream, part of the “Canadian” dream, and part of the “Dominican” dream for many Haitians now occupy other nationalities.

Although this has reduced our number of Haitian Citizens, this movement has in fact benefited us greatly, for we’ve been able to make a difference in countries and communities outside of Haiti. Michaëlle Jean, former governor general of Canada, and W.E.B. Dubois, one of the co-founders of the NAACP, whose father Alfred left Haiti sometime before 1860, are just a few of these examples. Throughout the world, Haitians have played a great part in forming and shaping businesses, policies, and being the driving force behind positive change. For example, as Haiti currently struggles to revive its Tourism industry, the hospitality industry abroad benefits from a large Haitian workforce. Common sense would dictate that if employment, land ownership, and voting rights were accorded to these citizens, that they would equally flourish in Haiti.

Unfortunately, double nationality is still an issue that has not been laid to rest, even after the promises made by Haiti’s President, during his election campaign. Just like the poor income per capita, this is an issue that refuses to go away, and maybe it’s because they might just go hand in hand. Yes, we are all looking for answers to Haiti’s problems, but let’s not forget that a large portion of our talent pool lies abroad. These people have also struggled, for they’ve had to move to a foreign land, learn a new language, earn a living, get an education, and then make their mark. If they can do this in another country, there’s no telling what they could do for Haiti.

Resources:

     This Q&A about the Dual Citizenship Amendment to the 1987 Constitution was put together by the Haitian Congress PAC.

Document Source: Haitian Congress PAC