African American Research Center, Library, University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Notes:
198 p, Caribbean immigrants have now become part of the social landscape of many American cities. Few studies, however, have treated in detail the process of their integration in American society. American Odyssey assesses the development and adaptation, in both human and socio-economic terms, of the Haitian immigrant community in three boroughs of New York City.
We have been blessed because they are a part of our mosaic." The evening festivities featured remarks from Haitian Consul General of New York Harry J. Fouche and Haiti's Ambassador to the United Nations Jean C. Alexandre. Entertainment was provided the Haitian American Association of Jersey City Inc., gospel singer [Felina Backer] and rap group Euneek Aroma Haiti. Additionally, the work of Haitian artist Lucien Bourdeau was displayed. The master of ceremonies was Yves Richar Blanc.
HAUP's Chairperson, Mr. Yves Merry Telemaque is counting on private matching contributions to provide desperately needed funds to keep the Queens Community Center functioning at its current location at 221-05 Linden Blvd. in Cambria Heights, Queens.
Haitian Catholic artists are as excited about this event as the rest of the community is. Some of them will attend the convention, and Jean Robert Themistocle, one of the pioneers of the organization of Haitian Catholic artists in the diaspora, composed a song based on the theme of the convention. The guests at the convention will be the first to hear and to sing this song with Jean Robert. It is a time of great grace for the Haitian community in the diaspora.
Reviews a novel about the lives of a mixed-race British/American family living in the United States. In its depiction of African Americans, White Americans, Britons, and Caribbean immigrants, the book demonstrates Americans' obsession with race. In addition to the contrast between desires for racial authenticity and class mobility, Smith’s novel exposes the variability of Black America, and especially the intersection between class and race.
The presenters discussed topics ranging from democratic reform and transition in Haiti to health concerns in the Haitian diaspora. One presentation by Lunine Pierre-Jerome, Ed.D., titled "Identity Development among Low-Literacy Haitian Adolescent Newcomers: Collective and Integrative View of the Self" was particularly poignant. Dr. Pierre-Jerome's case study explored how low-literacy Haitian adolescent newcomers identify themselves; their perceptions of family, peer relationships, community and schooling; and their opinions about attending a literacy program.
