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.

Haitian Heritage Museum

This past weekend I attended the 1st Annual Societe des Arts Fete Blanc (1st Annual Arts Society White Party) presented by the Haitian Heritage Museum. A dream realized by the HHM's Executive Director, Ms. Eveline Pierre, the museum opened its doors in 2004 and is proudly celebrating its 10th anniversary. Located in the Arts District in Miami, Fl it is the first museum, outside of Haiti, dedicated solely to Haitian arts and culture.

Honoring one of Haiti's heroes and military leaders, the featured theme of the exhibit is Toussaint L'Ouverture. Photos, paintings, and historical excerpts line the walls of the museum.

To help celebrate the 10 year anniversary, the author of the noted Haitian American blog L'Union Suite and the 2014 winner of the HHM's Miss May 18 contest, Ms Wanda was in attendance. To entertain the crowd a very popular Haitian American comedian, ZoePoze graced the stage. Also in attendance were a few of the hosts of a very popular radio talk show located in Miami called The Morning Drive (shameless plug I know). Tune in every Monday thru Friday to WSRF 1580AM from 8am-10am ANN ALE (even more shameless lol)!!!

Miss-Representation

The month of May is recognized as Haitian Heritage Month in South Florida. All month long the Haitian Diaspora has been proudly representing the Red and Blue and sharing our culture as the world excitedly looks on. Since THE hurricane of 2008 and the 7.0 earthquake of 2010 ravaged Haiti, the small French and Creole speaking island has been in the public eye. With a newly elected President and a new dedication to establishing Haiti as a premiere tourist destination, the negative perception of Haiti has slowly been changing.

But then local news outlets released these headlines:

North Miami Mayor Sought In Mortgage Fraud Investigation - CBS news

North Miami Mayor Facing Mortgage Fraud Charges - NBC News

North Miami Mayor charged in $8 million mortgage fraud scheme - ABC News

North Miami mayor reportedly to be charged with fraud - Fox News

A little Taste of Haiti in South Florida

It is a BIG weekend for all foodies and fans of Haitian culture. In the spirit of Haitian Heritage Month, both Miami-Dade and Broward Counties will be hosting pre-Haitian Flag Day celebrations. The first of the two being held in Miami is called the Taste of Haiti (TOH).

This is the fourth annual Taste of Haiti. It is an event organized by the Haitian Culinary Alliance (HCA). It will not only display the foods native to Haiti but modernized versions of everyone's favorites crafted by many talented local chefs. Many of these local chefs will also be there with their own exhibits to share their talents. Click here for a full list of exhibitors.

The TOH will not only give you a sample of Haitian Cuisine, but its culture as a whole. The event spans May 9-11 with different events tailored for those who work in the culinary world, the general public and a special Mother's Day brunch. My focus will be on May 10, the main event of the weekend. It will be a day full of food and activities for everyone. There will be a kids’ corner so the ti moun are welcome as well. Admission to the event is free but there will be food, drinks and crafts for sale. The event will be held at the MOCA Plaza from 4pm-10pm. The address is 770 NE 125th Street, Miami, FL 33161.

Taso and Banan Peze

So the first Haitian Food recipe I will be sharing with you guys is a double header.

Goat Meat Taso

The first dish is called Taso. The photo and recipe comes from KreyolCuisine.com. Taso is traditionally made from beef or goat meat. But for those who prefer a leaner meat, turkey is also used. Personally I love Taso because it is my alternative to Griot. I don't eat pork so I believe it is a great replacement and it is similarly prepared. The following recipe is for goat meat Taso.