Haitian Independence Day

Haitian Independence Day

Cheryl Smith, RN

Miami Dade College

Haitian Independence Day

Haiti proclaimed its independence January 1, 1804 becoming the world's first independent black republic by defeating the French. Every first of January the Haitian culture celebrate Haitian Independence Day by preparing and eating Soup Joumou. Christelle Dubois-Dawkins was interviewed to discuss her family's traditional celebration on the eve of January 26, 2013. Ms. Dawkins is Haitian-American born here in the United States, residing in Florida well over 15 years. As we sat in the living room of Ms. Dawkins' Kendall home, the question was asked why do Haitians eat soup on January 1st (New Year's Day). C. Dubois-Dawkins shared that eating Soup Joumou on New Year's Day is a tradition that is passed from generation to generation representing Haiti's defiance of the French colonial powers, who had declared that slaves could not eat soup as it was only for the upper class (personal communication, January 25, 2013). She shared that this little nation actually made history on January 1, 1804 by becoming the first Black Country to gain its independence by defeating the enemy at the "Bataille de vertiere". At the same time the name of the country was changed back to its original name "Ayiti", the name given by the original inhabitants before Christopher Columbus discovered the Island in 1492, naming it Hispaniola. Since that year, Haitians everywhere started to eat pumpkin soup (Soup Joumou), their way of declaring they were no longer slaves and everyone was equal.

Ms. Dawkins enjoys preparing Soup Joumou with her mother. It is a traditional thick and hearty Haitian soup made of pumpkin, beef, and rice. The condiments they use give the soup its characteristic taste of being mildly spicy. She serves it hot and it's usually accompanied with pain Haitien (Haitian bread). Sliced bread is also a frequent side-dish and that makes the soup a sort of dip as well. Haitian households celebrate their country's Independence Day with bowls of Soup Joumou, often walking from house to house sharing with friends and families on the first day of the year commemorating Haitian Independence Day.

In conclusion, I have learned that the cooking and eating of soup