January 1, 1804—Haiti became the first country to gain independence for the enslaved after the slave revolts overwhelmingly defeated French troops, making its mark in history. Ever since, Haitians worldwide have celebrated this victory, adorning themselves in red and blue to acknowledge the battle fought by their ancestors, as well as their sacrifices. The Haitian Revolution gave birth to the Haitian Flag, and its anniversary is commemorated each year on May 18th.
Paul Degenkolb, a French teacher at Malden High and the advisor of the Haitian Culture Club (HCC), hosts an annual flag-raising ceremony, representing students at our school. This year, the HCC decided to organize a night of food, culture, and dance named Kompa Night in the same week as the flag ceremony. Larielle Leconte, a member of the HCC, voiced, “We celebrate the red and blue, we celebrate our struggles and our joy, we celebrate being one.”
The word “kompa” shares a root with the Spanish word “compás”, which translates to beat or rhythm. Haitian Kompa is characterized by its steady danceable beats, pulsating tempo, and the use of tanbou, a barrel drum. It is a combination of eclectic musical traditions, including African rhythm, European ballroom dance, and Haitian melody, typically sung with themes of love, social commentary, and current events.
“When they hear the beat, people want to dance,” expressed math teacher Nadege Sully.
From 5-7 pm on May 23rd, the MHS Gallery was filled with rhythmic tunes, the aroma of cultures, and the chatter of languages. Upon entering the area, your ears were greeted with the beats of Haiti, your nose was welcomed by the delicious scent of Haitian cuisine, and your eyes took in the tables decorated in red and blue.
While the event had a slow start, an hour later, the Gallery began to flood with students wearing breathtaking cultural attire. After everyone rose to pay their tribute during the Haitian National Anthem, friend groups and pairs glided onto the dance floor and began to sway with the music. Laughter, unity, and diversity shone through the crowd because “despite coming from one country, there are distinct cultures within one,” shared Phalangecia Jean Charles.
Rich, flavorful pasta, beef puff pastries, Diri Kole ak Pwa—the national rice and bean dish of Haiti– drumsticks, fruits, and cupcakes lined the back table of the Gallery, reeling in dancers to satiate their hunger following the “night of fun and honor,” continued Sully.
Overall, the event was a success on both sides: for the guests and hosts. Although the club finds it “hard to communicate” with one another due to “after-school activities and responsibilities”, the HCC was able to arrange a “meaningful and memorable evening” for attendees, concluded Charles.
About the Author
