Why Haiti?

I am often asked when describing my dissertation to others, why I chose Haitians! There are a number of reasons why Haitian-Americans fit the criteria for my research. In a nutshell, I am using an instrument that measures inherited personality traits (these are genetically based and occur in all populations world-wide). In a (very) few populations, some small "blips" have been noticed, usually attributed to acculturation issues. I wanted to be the first to actually measure an instance of culture moderating an inherited trait, so I needed a unique, very different culture.

Haiti fit the bill to a "T!" Haitians have their own language, spoken nowhere else in the world. Haiti has a unique culture and history like none other in the world. Haiti is fairly isolated in that it occupies about half of an island (Hispaniola) that it shares with the Dominican Republic. Like most Caribbean islands, it was founded by the Spanish and later became a French colony. Haiti was a slave trading port, as well as a colony that used slaves to export products for France. In 1804, the slaves of Haiti revolted and succeeded in over-throwing French rule. This has been THE ONLY TIME EVER IN RECORDED HISTORY that slaves were able to over-throw a government (other slave populations such as the Jews in Egypt have managed to escape, but none have taken over the land of their slavery except Haitians). These are a brave, proud people with a unique history, culture influenced by several African tribes and the French, and unique language. Due to a number of unique events in their history (I'm not going to post my book sized dissertation!!) they made a perfect unique culture for documenting a culturally moderated genetic trait.

A benefit to me is the pleasure I have derived from working with the wonderful people I have met during this process. In particular, one organization stands out: The Haitian Organization of Women in Homestead, Florida. This organization does so much good work - if you're interested, their web address is http://haitianwomen.org/index.php Cuckita, the executive director, is a lovely, hard-working, dedicated individual. I have made a committment to continue supporting their organization by joining as a member and giving regularly.

Haiti is a country with terrible suffering right now. They have gone through a series of dictators (prior to the 1990's supported by the US CIA). They have experienced the Tonton Macout - a CIA trained, government supported death squad that in our lifetimes has murdered more people than can be counted. Right now, Haiti is experiencing a humanitarian crisis. The UN has peace-keeping troops posted there. Many Haitians lack clean water, adequate food supplies, and most in rural areas are unable to obtain an education. The first picture above is of Laura Bush's visit in March of this year (2008). I personally try to help by supporting a child through a mission effort (meals, schooling, church available). The second picture is of a Haitian woman making cakes from mud - yes, they are forced to eat mud due to such a severe food shortage. The last picture is of a UN truck in Haiti.

Haiti fulfilled the requirements for my dissertation and at the same time it is personally fulfilling to work with this population. My dissertation work will also provide the first and only psychological measure with normative data for Haitians (no psychological test/measures exist currently that can be used with confidence with persons of Haitian descent). It's an exciting, fun, and fulfilling piece of work!