The migration of Haitians to the Dominican Republic to escape rampant poverty and the destruction caused by the 2010 earthquake has sparked violence and calls for mass deportations of Haitian immigrants.
This one of a kind event will bring together WACRI members with the people of the Rhode Island Haitian and Dominican communities for a forum which will explore the complicated and often difficult history between Haitians and Dominicans on the Island of Hispaniola.
It will be an evening of enlightenment, dialogue and understanding as we learn about the history of these two nations, and hear the perspectives of the members of the Rhode Island Haitian and Dominican communities.
The evening begins with cultural performances during cocktail hour by Haitian singer Fritza Remy and Dominican playwright Elvys Ruiz.
The event then moves to keynote speaker Dr. Silvio Torres-Saillant (photo on right) from Syracuse University who will talk about "The Pain of History in Quisqueya (Hispaniola) Today."
After brief comments by activists Melida Anyi Espinal and Moise Bourdeau, there will be an interactive forum led by the Honorable Walter R. Stone, Associate Justice of RI Superior Court.
The event will feature a variety of Caribbean foods and cash bar.
The location is the Donovan Dining Faculty Center on the Rhode Island College campus in North Providence.
Early registration is encouraged.
The World Affairs Council Of Rhode Island is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization.
Mailing Address: 36 Webster Avenue, Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882
