Musings of a Haitian American Male: The Polls are Open

The state of Florida is having Primary Elections on August 26, 2014. Citizens of Miami-Dade, Broward and Palm Beach counties will be voting to elect or re-elect judges, councilmen, state representatives and state senators. In a special election, the city of North Miami will be voting to replace former mayor Lucie Tondreau. For more information refer back to Miss-Representation

These elections have great significance to the Haitian American community in S. Florida because in comparison to the populace, we have little to no representation in our local government. It is no secret that the Haitian community sometimes finds it very difficult to stand as one and if in any area it is most apparent in politics. Often times you will find several Haitian American candidates fighting for the same political seat while other ethnicities allow one qualified individual to run unopposed to ensure they are properly represented.

Unfortunately many of the people who fled Haiti in search of political asylum came over to the U.S. with the same mindset. After living many years under government corruption and abuse of powers, many feel politics are "evil" and should be avoided altogether. This often times withholds the people from getting involved in local politics and worse yet not voting. Others who ventured into politics have unfortunately adopted some of Haiti's and America's worst habits and have dealt unethically in their affairs. Now don't get me wrong, not all Haitian Americans are crooked in politics. In fact, on the morning radio show The Morning Drive, we took it upon ourselves to dive headfirst into the world of politics to uncover the truth on some of the candidates.

For the better part of August we have interviewed Dade, Broward and Palm Beach's supervisors of elections along with some of the candidates for office. This act in itself is completely unheard of in our community. Usually candidates "buy" radio personalities in order to have them influence their audience into voting for that particular candidate. On air they will of course uplift their candidate but very commonly they will also bash others. A practice used in politics since the inception of democracy, but it’s never been very helpful in my opinion. The Morning Drive decided to research the issues, the rumors and speak to the candidates themselves. Avoiding drama and negativity, we were able to ask hard hitting questions and show them that the younger generation is not only interested in politics but actively invested in the future of our community.

I leave two pieces of advice for my readers. The first is to get informed. Don't support someone based solely on the fact that you were told to or because they look and sound like you. Research the issues, ask questions, and decide who the best candidate for you is. Secondly...VOTE!!! It’s simple. If you do not vote, (for those who are eligible of course) you do not have the right to complain.

If there were ever a time for us to remember the words emblazoned on our flag it is now. L'Union Fait La Force. United we are strong. Remember to exercise your right to vote on Election Day August 26.

Until then...

Na we pita/A plus tard