reflections shared and stories experienced by Haitian-American Imani as she dives deeper into her ancestral roots for the heightened resilience of diverse communities she's within. ​
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*This story was originally written in May of 2024.
Story written by: Rachel Peet
Photography by: Rachel Peet
As a first generation Haitian-American, resilience and advocacy pulses through Imani’s blood and her everyday interactions. To advocate not only for her oppressed lineage but also for the oppressed lives of many other immigrants around the globe has been ingrained in her Haitian roots for generations. Such deep roots have flourished into strengthened resilience upon infinite “mountain tops” through Imani’s compassionate skills in the education field.
Imani joined IRIS (Integrated Refugee and Immigration Services) at the New Haven office in June of 2021 as the Summer Learning Program Coordinator, and eventually, the Education Program Coordinator. Education is at the forefront of her work, with advocacy, resilience, and confidence accompanying each educational context she’s within. These elements have always been and will always be emphasized by Imani as a Haitian-American and educator.
Imani smiling by her desk in the IRIS Education office in New Haven, CT, USA.
She was born and raised by two Haitian parents who took immense pride in their heritage. This pride naturally manifested as part of Imani's identity as she navigated life in a foreign land to her Haitian ancestors. These feelings of disconnect are especially familiar in how her ancestors were constantly divided amidst long-standing systemic, foreign oppression in their homeland.
For over five centuries, the island nation of Ayiti (Haiti) has stood as an enduring symbol of open-mindedness and determination, being the first Black republic to liberate itself from colonial rule. These familiar feelings amongst others – like that of advocacy and resilience – have transcended physical and cultural borders since then.
Imani's upbringing was shaped by her parents' unwavering commitment to instill in her and her siblings the importance of carrying themselves with dignity, echoing such resilience of her ancestors. Imani reflects, “...having my parents' guidance growing up was essential as they always spoke highly of Ayiti no matter what was going on there and what the media was saying. They always spoke love and power into Ayiti.”
Overlooking Imani's decorated desk space at IRIS.
While Imani has yet to be directly involved in supporting Haitian youth through the educational programs offered by IRIS, her deep sense of Haitian pride and passion has found expression in IRIS’ After School Program. Last March, she designed a special workshop that delved into the rich history and culture of Ayiti. Home-cooked, Haitian dishes and newfound perspectives were shared as Imani’s family tree and culture unfolded before her at work.
Imani glowed as she reflected upon the workshop from last year,“I plan on continuing workshops that fill up my cup like that one. It overflowed my cup. What I appreciated most was that the workshop wasn’t brought to light because conflict was rising up in Haiti all of a sudden. It was brought to light to educate and celebrate.”
Even for the celebration of each Haitian Flag Day and Haitian Heritage Month in May over recent years, Imani excitedly prepares Haitian pâté – small yet very flavorful puff pastries stuffed with meat or veggies.
Imani's pet fish in the education team office representing the Haitian flag on it's bowl. :-)
Beyond the education department at IRIS, Imani supports Haitian clients whenever possible. Whether bridging communication gaps at our weekly food pantry by interpreting between English to Haitian Kreyol or sharing an important message around registering for English classes in Kreyol, Imani is ready to lend a hand.
“I’m not working day-to-day with the Haitian population, but there are small ways in which I’ve helped. I will go out of my way to do it even if it’s not in my job description.”
Recently, Imani's advocacy was showcased in a webinar spotlighting “Taíno voices” - referring to the historic indigenous population of the Caribbean. Despite the extinction of the Taíno language, an Arawakan language once dominant in the Antilles, Imani remains dedicated to ensuring that her own voice, lineage, and people endure into the future, particularly as Haitian migration is on the rise.
Imani’s advocacy work has taught her the importance of listening to diverse voices. As her Haitian brothers and sisters have long strived for, Imani too strives to connect and develop deeper understanding amongst all migrants through her ongoing exploration of new languages. Through her passion for linguistic diversity, Imani is knowledgeable in five different languages, including Taíno, French, Arabic, and Haitian Kreyol. Her dedication demonstrates that of an exemplary educator and the openness of many other multilingual Haitians.
Imani alongside cherry blossoms in front of the IRIS offices in New Haven, CT.
Imani believes that dismantling societal barriers hinges on listening to and understanding not just one, but both perspectives, often expressed through the languages that create them. Her consistent efforts towards heightened understanding as an educator has opened many doors for the individuals she educates at IRIS, and beyond.
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She, her Haitian ancestors, and current brothers and sisters of the island embrace the proverb “Dèyè mòn, gen mòn” (Beyond every mountain, there's another mountain.”) Despite never getting to see the full view of every mountain top beyond, there lies immense power in the acceptance of not knowing what greater strength and broader views the next mountain top will have to offer. Imani is forever grateful to help share the momentum behind this proverb to all journeys of all migrants through her everyday interactions as an educator, social justice advocate, and Haitian-American.