Caribbean American Passport News Magazine - May 2024

Building Connected Communities

Orlando Carnival Downtown is an annual event that brings the vibrant Caribbean culture to the heart of Orlando, Florida. This lively festival is a celebration of Caribbean heritage, featuring colorful parades, music, dance, and cuisine. Its history is rooted in the rich traditions of Caribbean carnivals and the desire to share these cultural festivities with a broader audience.

The origins of Orlando Carnival Downtown can be traced back to the early 1980s when a group of Caribbean immigrants in Central Florida sought to recreate the carnival experience they cherished back home. Drawing inspiration from famous Caribbean carnivals, such as those in Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and Haiti, these pioneers aimed to create an event that would both celebrate their cultural heritage and bring the community together.

Haitian Flag Day

The first Orlando Carnival was a modest affair, but it quickly gained popularity as word spread throughout the Caribbean community and beyond. The event showcased traditional carnival elements, including masquerade bands, steel pan music, calypso, and soca performances. As the carnival grew, it attracted participants and spectators from various backgrounds, eager to experience the vibrant culture of theCaribbean.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Orlando Carnival Downtown continued to expand, drawing larger crowds each year. The festivalmovedtodifferentlocationswithin the city to accommodate its growing popularity. It became a significant event in Orlando's cultural calendar, attracting touristsandlocalsalike....Cont'd on pg 5

Haitian Flag Day, celebrated annually on May 18, is a day of immense national pride for Haitians both within the country and in the diaspora. It commemorates the creation of the Haitian flag, a powerful symbol of freedom and unity, born out of the struggle for independence from French colonial rule. This day not only honors the flag itself but also serves as a reminder of Haiti's rich history, resilience,andculturalidentity.

The history of the Haitian flag dates back to the early 19th century, during the Haitian Revolution (1791-1804), which was a defining moment in the fight against slavery and colonialism in the Americas. On May18,1803,duringtheCongressof Arcahaie, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, one of the key leaders of the revolution, tore apart the French tricolor flag, removing the white band that symbolized the French colonial power. He then sewed together the remaining blue and red bands horizontally to create a new flag, symbolizing the unity of the Black and mulatto soldiers in their fightforfreedom.

The blue and red colors of the flag held deep symbolic meanings. The blue represented the former African slaves, while the red symbolized the people of mixed race. Together, they embodied the solidarity of all Haitians in their struggle for independence. This new flag became a rallying point for the revolutionaries and a potent emblem of their determination to achieveliberty.

The Haitian flag has undergone several changes since its creation. After Dessalines declared independence on January 1, 1804, he modified the flag to include a white square bearing a depiction of a trophy of weapons overlaid with a palm tree. The motto "L'Union Fait La Force" (Unity Makes Strength) was added to underscore the importance of solidarityinthenewnation.

Haitian Flag Day is more than a celebration of a national symbol; it is a day of cultural reflection, historical remembrance, and national pride. ...Cont'd on pg 5

Samuel J. Roberts Owner/Publisher/Editor

Embracing Challenges: Rising Above Adversity

Life is an unpredictable journey filled with challenges and struggles that test our resolve and resilience. These obstacles, while daunting, are essential to our personal growth and development. Embracing challenges and facing struggles head-on is not just about survival; it’s about thriving and rising above them, emerging stronger and wiser.

The first step in overcoming challenges is acknowledging their existence. It's easy to fall into the trap of denial, hoping that problems will disappear on their own. However, recognizing a challenge is crucial to devising a strategy to tackle it. Accepting that difficulties are a natural part of life can help reduce feelings of frustration and helplessness, making it easier to approach them with a clear and focused mind.

A positive mindset is a powerful tool in the face of adversity. Instead of viewing challenges as insurmountable obstacles, consider them opportunities for growth. This shift in perspective can transform your approach to problems. Embracing a growth mindset means understanding that every challenge is a chance to learn something new, develop a skill, or gain a valuable experience. It’s about believing that your abilities and intelligence can be developed through dedication and hard work.

Resilience is the ability to bounce back from setbacks and keep moving forward. Developing resilience involves building emotional strength and adaptability. One effective way to build resilience is through mindfulness and self-care. Practices such as meditation, exercise, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help manage stress and maintain a balanced perspective. Resilient people are not immune to difficulties; rather, they have learned to adapt and persist despite them.

Setting realistic and achievable goals is essential when facing challenges. Break down larger problems into smaller, manageable tasks. This approach not only makes the challenge seem less overwhelming but also provides a clear roadmap to follow. Celebrate small victories along the way, as they can boost your morale and motivate you to keep pushing forward.

No one has to face their struggles alone. Seeking support from friends, family, or professional counselors can provide muchneeded encouragement and guidance. Sharing your challenges with others can offer new perspectives and solutions that you might not have considered. Additionally, being part of a supportive community can provide emotional strength and a sense of belonging, which are crucial during tough times.

Failure is an inevitable part of life and an integral aspect of facing challenges. Instead of fearing failure, embrace it as a learningopportunity.Analyzewhatwentwrongandwhat

could have been done differently. This reflective process can provide insights that are invaluable for future endeavors. Remember, failure is not the opposite of success; it’s a part of the journey toward success.

Persistence is key when overcoming obstacles. There will be moments of doubt and frustration, but it’s important to keep moving forward. Persistence doesn’t mean doing the same thing repeatedly; it means finding new ways to solve problems and refusing to give up. It’s about maintaining a long-term perspective and understanding that setbacks are temporary.

Finally, it’s essential to celebrate your successes, no matter how small. Recognizing your achievements provides a sense of accomplishment and reinforces your ability to overcome future challenges. Reflect on how far you’ve come and the strength you’ve developed along the way. Celebrations are not just about the end goal but about acknowledging the hard work and perseverance that got you there.

Embracing challenges and facing struggles is a transformative process that builds character and resilience. By acknowledging challenges, maintaining a positive perspective, developing resilience, setting realistic goals, seeking support, learning from failure, staying persistent, and celebrating success, you can rise above any adversity. Life’s challenges are inevitable, but how we respond to them defines our journey. Embrace your struggles,learnfromthem,andemergestrongerandmore capablethaneverbefore.

1969 Alafaya Trail • Orlando, FL 32828 Office: 407-427-1800 Fax: 407-386-7925 Toll Free: 877-220-8315

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Guenet Gittens-Roberts

Building Connected Communities

One of the key factors in the carnival's success has been its abilitytoadaptandevolvewhilestayingtruetoitsCaribbean roots. Organizers have introduced new elements to the festival, such as food vendors offering authentic Caribbean dishes, arts and crafts stalls, and family-friendly activities. These additions have made the carnival a more inclusive event,appealingtoawideraudience.

Orlando Carnival Downtown has had a profound impact on the local community. It has provided a platform for Caribbean artists, musicians, and entrepreneurs to showcase their talents and products. The festival has also fostered a sense of unity and pride among Caribbean immigrants, helping them maintain a connection to their cultural heritage.

....cont'd from page 1

Moreover, the carnival has contributed to the cultural diversity of Orlando, enhancing the city's reputation as a vibrant and inclusive destination. It has created opportunities for cultural exchange, allowing people from different backgrounds to come together and celebrate Caribbeanculture.

Today, Orlando Carnival Downtown stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Caribbean culture and its ability to bring people together. The festival's rich history and continued success reflect the hard work and dedication of the Caribbean community in Orlando. As the carnival moves forward, it remains a cherished event that celebrates diversity, unity, and the vibrant traditions oftheCaribbean.

For Haitians, the flag is a testament to their ancestors' sacrifices and the relentless pursuit of freedom and equality. The day is marked by various activities, including parades, cultural events, and educational programs aimed at fostering national unity and preserving Haitian heritage.

In Haiti, particularly in the city of Arcahaie, where the flag wascreated,grandfestivitiestakeplace.Schools,government institutions, and communities across the country participate in events that highlight the flag's historical significance and itsroleinshapingtheHaitiannationalidentity.

Haitians living abroad also celebrate Flag Day with great enthusiasm. The day serves as a bridge connecting them to their homeland, fostering a sense of belonging and cultural pride.

In cities with significant Haitian populations, such as Miami, New York, and Montreal, vibrant parades and cultural showcases are held, featuring traditional music, dance, and cuisine. These celebrations help keep the Haitian culture alive and ensure that the younger generationsunderstandandappreciatetheirheritage.

HaitianFlagDayisaprofoundreminderofthecountry's revolutionary past and its enduring spirit of resilience. The flag, a simple yet powerful symbol, encapsulates the struggles and triumphs of the Haitian people. Celebrating this day allows Haitians to honor their history, celebrate their culture, and unite in the ongoing journeytowardprogressandunity.AsHaiticontinuesto navigate its path forward, the flag remains a steadfast emblemofhope,strength,andnationalpride.

Haiti Strong

Haiti, a nation with a rich and tumultuous history, stands as a testament to resilience and determination in the face of adversity. The history of Haiti is marked by its struggle for independence, political turmoil, natural disasters, and economic challenges. Yet, through it all, the Haitian people have demonstrated an unyielding spirit and a deep sense of cultural pride.

Haiti's journey began with the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, when the island, then known as Hispaniola, was colonized by Spain. The indigenous Taíno population was decimated due to diseases and harsh labor conditions imposed by the colonizers. In the 17th century, the western part of the island, which is present-day Haiti, came under French control. Renamed Saint-Domingue, it became one of the wealthiest colonies in the Caribbean, largely due to the labor of enslaved Africans who were forced to work on sugar, coffee, and indigo plantations under brutal conditions.

The relentless exploitation and oppression led to the Haitian Revolution, a series of conflicts from 1791 to 1804. Led by figures like Toussaint Louverture and Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the enslaved Africans rose against their French oppressors, making it the first successful slave revolt in history. On January 1, 1804, Haiti declared its independence, becoming the first independent black republic and the second independent nation in the Western Hemisphere after the United States.

However, Haiti's victory came at a steep price. The new nation was ostracized by the global community, particularly by the United States and European powers, who feared the spread of slave rebellions. In 1825, under the threat of invasion, Haiti agreed to pay France a crippling indemnity of 150 million francs (later reduced to 90 million) to secure recognition of its independence. This debt severely hampered Haiti’s economic development, as the country spent much of its revenue on repayments well into the 20th century.

Political instability has been a recurring theme in Haiti’s history. Following the revolution, the country experienced frequentchangesinleadership,coups,anddictatorships.

The 20th century was particularly turbulent, with the brutal regimes of François “Papa Doc” Duvalier and his son, Jean-Claude “Baby Doc” Duvalier, who ruled from 1957 to 1986. Their rule was marked by widespread human rights abuses, corruption, and the creation of the Tonton Macoute, a notorious secret police force that terrorized the population.

The end of the Duvalier era did not bring stability. Subsequent governments struggled with corruption, poverty, and external interference. In recent decades, Haiti has faced severe natural disasters that compounded its challenges. The devastating earthquake of 2010 killed an estimated 230,000 people, displaced over a million, and caused widespread destruction. Recovery efforts were hindered by political dysfunction and inadequate infrastructure. In 2016, Hurricane Matthew further exacerbated the country’s woes, causing significant damage to homes, crops, and infrastructure.

Despite these hardships, the Haitian people continue to exhibit remarkable resilience. Haitian culture, rich in art, music, and literature, reflects a deep sense of identity and pride. The nation’s vibrant traditions, including the annual Carnival and the celebration of Vodou, play crucial roles in maintaining social cohesion and cultural continuity.

The Haitian diaspora has also been instrumental in supporting the country through remittances, advocacy, and humanitarian efforts. Haitians abroad have excelled in various fields, contributing to a positive image of their homeland and fostering a sense of hope and possibility.

This special event, dedicated to the memory of the late Brother John Robert Lewis, US Representative, will honor four remarkable individuals for their exceptional contributions to Central Florida in the areas of Youth Development, Social Action, Black Business Development, and Education.

This year's awardees—Justin Cloud, Reginald McGill, Alvin Cowans, and Boris Jackson—exemplify excellence and commitment within their respective fields. Additionally, the Keynote address will be delivered by Stanley Campbell.

For more details on how to become a partner or sponsor, please visit www.orlandosigmas.org or contact Guenet at guenet@ggrmarketingpr.com.

Unifest, the premier celebration of Caribbean culture in South Florida, transforms Lauderdale Lakes into a vibrant hub of music, food, and festivities each year. This dynamic event, organized by the Greater Caribbean American Cultural Coalition, in partnership with the City of Lauderdale Lakes and Broward County Commissioner, Hazel Rogers, showcases the rich cultural heritage of the Caribbean through lively performances,colorfulparades,andavarietyofculinarydelights.

Attendees are treated to an immersive experience featuring reggae, soca, and calypso music, traditional dances, and artisan crafts, reflecting the diverse Caribbean community in the region. Unifest not only celebrates cultural diversity but also fosters unity and community spirit, attracting thousands of visitors and leaving a lasting impact on the cultural landscape of SouthFlorida.

Orlando Carnival Downtown Weekend 2024

Are you looking to access the vibrant, diverse, and influential Caribbean diaspora that exists in Florida Look no further than Caribbean American Passport News Magazine!

I am Shaniqua “Shan” Rose, and today, I stand before you, not just as a candidate for District 5 Commissioner but as a testament to the unbreakable spirit of our community. My journey, marked by trials and triumphs, has prepared me to serve and uplift every corner of our district.

Born on the vibrant shores of St. Lucia and nurtured in the bustling streets of Brooklyn, New York, my family’s path eventually led us to the welcoming community of Poinciana, Florida.

Here, amidst the challenges and opportunities, I completed my education, earning a Bachelor’s Degree in Supervision and Management from Polk State College, followed by a Masters in Public Administration from American Public University.

My professional journey with the City of Orlando spanned six years, during which I served passionately in the Economic Development Department and the Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA).

My mission has always been clear: to heal and empower communities facing adversity, from poverty to the urgent need for mentorship. This dedication was recognized when I coordinated over 10,000 vaccines, earning accolades from WKMG-TV for getting tangible results.

However, my journey has not been without its storms. I faced the unthinkable – the loss of my husband to gun violence, the passing of my young son, homelessness, and surviving domestic violence. Yet, these trials did not define me; they refined me. Through the darkest times, I found strength and healing, and emerged more determined to make a difference.

Now, as the President of Change For The Community and the Executive Director in Eatonville, I channel my experiences into action, advocating for a community that listens, collaborates, and achieves together.

My leadership has been recognized on numerous fronts, including receiving an award from President Joe Biden. My efforts have led to over 200,000 pounds of food distributed to those in need and the creation of over 100 jobs for cleanup efforts post-Hurricane Ian. Now, I humbly seek your support to continue this work as your next District 5 Commissioner.

Our vision is one of unity and collective progress, addressing the pressing issues from affordable housing to education, employment, and safety. District 5 is not just a part of Orlando; it is the heart of our city. It encompasses vibrant communities like Downtown Orlando, Parramore, Rock Lake, and many others.

As we look to the future, let’s engage in dialogue, participate actively, and vote with hope and determination. While I don’t claim to have all the answers, I am committed to working tirelessly to enhance the place I proudly call home.

Our journey together is just beginning. With open hearts and united efforts, we can bridge the gaps and build a District 5 that stands as a beacon of strength, compassion, and progress for all. Let’s embrace the challenges ahead, supported by the fire that has tested but not consumed us, and continue to champion the needs and dreams of our community.

For more information, to join our cause, or to share your vision for District 5, please reach out at 619-251-3937 or via email at vote4shan@gmail.com.

Big Big Bamboo Bamboo

By Tony Deyal

Dedicated to my son, Zubin Deyal, for telling that what each of the Cricket West Indies bosses needs in a good bat, or two, made from bamboo.

As a youngster always hungry, and in my teens when with some of my friends we looked down at a lady having her shower below the mango tree; while mango is great for sperm count, increases versatility in men, helps to regulate sex hormones, and boosts sex drive, it is also low in calories with fewer than 100 per cup. The research shows that “The goodness of vitamin C, A and essential nutrients in raw mango triggers the immune system, improves vision, makes your skin and hair healthy and lowers the risk of prostate cancer”. No wonder the Mighty Sparrow sang about his big brother, Umba, who “cook up one, he eat one raw/ Dey taste so good he wanted more, more / He wanted more!” In the process, the mangoes broke up with the bananas and didn’t give a fig for them. Subsequently, Umba found that one rotten mango could spoil the entire basket, and so most people went for coconut.

I couldn’t blame them. Once we heard that, in 1956, the great Harry Belafonte gave up on “mango” and went for what was considered the “cheerful and catchy calypso song”, that was it! I was 11 years old and then suddenly nobody cared about “mango long, mango sweet” and even “mango ‘doodose’ … .” Coconut woman was calling all of us. Every day you could hear us, and Belafonte, shout for something that was “good for your daughter, had a lot of iron and could make you strong like a lion”. Then Harry Nisson “Put the lime in the coconut” and everybody left the banana boat for what the coconut woman said was, “You’ll agree,/ Coconut makes very nice candy/ The thing that’s best if you’re feeling glum/ Is coconut water with a little rum.”

PASSING CLOUDS

Then, like mangoes, coconuts became passing clouds. The American soldiers saw Trinidadians, especially the women, as resources for sex and hard work. This was objectified through the mix of rum and Coke. It was composed by a Venezuelan who grew up in Trinidad, Lionel Belasco, based on a song titled L’Année Passée, which then became Yankee Dollar. Not very long after, the Trinidadian calypso musician, Lord Invader (Rupert Grant), turned it into Rum and Coca Cola. It was not only good for your daughter but all of us. Even now, almost 70 years after I first heard it, I can still remember and sing, “Drinkin’ rum and Coca-Cola/ Go down Point Koomanah/ Both mother and daughter/ Working for the Yankee Dollar.” Truly it was, “Big, big bamboo, bamboo/ Ayy, yah yah yah yah yah yah yah/ Working for the Yankee dollar./ Money in the land with the Yankee dollar ohh … .”

I found out later that the combination of ‘rum and Coke’, which was at the top of the world for a very long time, started in 1900 when a US Army captain based in Havana, Cuba during the Spanish-American War, poured some Coke and a squeeze of lime into his Bacardi (which was then a “white” rum) and made a toast to his Cuban friends with, “Por Cuba Libre” (To a Free Cuba). One expert has written, “Drinkers of this beverage love the exotic Indian origin of this drink … . Its simple recipe and inexpensive, ubiquitous ingredients have made it one of the world’s mostpopular alcoholic drinks … it has been noted for its historical significance” because it “seems to reflect perfectly the historical elements of the modern world.” There was a time I would have not just drink, but drunk to that.

I was a little boy in Trinidad when I first saw, and heard, Lord Invader. Even at that age, I understood what he meant by “saw that the Yankees treat them nice/and they give them a better place"

In fact, in the final stanza, Invader sang about a couple who had just got married and then their marriage broke up because “the bride run away with a soldier lad/ and the stupid husband went staring mad”. Clearly, he didn’t like the big, big bamboo as much as his wife did.

Fortunately for me, especially when my wife found out about me and my bamboo, people all over the world were already asking for it. It was, still is, and every day and every way becoming more and more popular. It is now a highly sustainable resource because of its rapid growth rate and regenerative properties. While my friends with hardwood quickly find out that they take several decades to mature, bamboo takes only a few years. At five, the bamboo is ready to rumble. This makes it a renewable and eco-friendly option, as it reduces the pressure on many things, including natural forests. While it is a lightweight like me, its renewability far exceeds timber, mango and bananas. In fact, some bamboo species possess a strength-to-weight ratio equal to, or better than, steel and lumber. Some also have the compressive strength of concrete. Even toilet paper, which now causes 27,000 trees to be cut down, is being made from bamboo, which grows faster than the average tree, and 1,000 rolls can be produced in the time it takes for one tree to grow back.

BAMBOO

What got me thinking about bamboo was the International Cricket Council (ICC) World Cup this year, 2024. The countries that will host the Caribbean part of it will need to have the space to make the money that supposedly can be as much as US$300 million. While the present Cricket West Indies (CWI) president, Kishore Shallow, lives up to his surname, people like the Barbados Prime Minister Mia Mottley realise the need to renovate and upgrade the facilities (in her case, Kensington Oval), that will leave the cricketers the best developmental options for the future.

I was corporate secretary of the WICB (under Mr Ken Gordon as president) in the 2010 World 20/20 tournament. We made a lot of money and shared it with the six organisations that constitute the ownership of WI Cricket, hoping that they would all do what the present PM of Barbados will definitely make happen if she gets that kind of funding. Almost 15 years after, many of us still ask, “Where the money gone?” While some say “It gone for higher”, and others comment “No, it gone for hire”, nobody can get “fire” because our attempts to have a complete review of the finances of the board has never happened, and will never ever happen. While many people knew and saw a link among the heads of boards of the different countries as a cabal (or group of people who are united in some close design, usually to promote their private views or interests, political purpose, conspiracy and secrecy), this, too, was never investigated.

This is why I am convinced that everyone in the West Indies Cricket Board needs a good bat. A bamboo bat. According to the Cambridge Faculty of Engineering, bamboo bats have a bigger sweet spot and we, the people of the Caribbean, know very well how to use them.

*Tony Deyal was last seen saying that, with a big, big bamboo bat, we can make sure the Cricket Board cabal will not be able to bamboozle the people of the Caribbean.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8-CE4xYIyng Listen to this!!! Lord Invader.