10 Famous Haitian People You Must Know About!

We all know Haiti for multiple reasons! While politically inclined people know it as the first independent Black Republic country of the world, culture lovers know it as the hub of loud Rara or Meringue music! Economists may call it one of the world’s most unstable and poorest economies, but the country has managed to give the world some of its biggest stalwarts. Yes, you heard us right! Today, we list for you some of the most famous Haitian people, who have changed the globe for the better! 

We will talk about their achievements and how their pieces of advice have changed the worldview of many for the better. Let us bring forth the details for you – 

Who are the most famous Haitian people? 

They are – 

1. Gary Victor 

Profession – Playwright, Writer, Scriptwriter for TV and radio

Contribution – 

There’s no way to kickstart this list before mentioning the name of Gary Victor. His uncompromising attitude on TV, and radio sketches, made him one of the most steadfast and outspoken activists of all time. In fact, there have been multiple cases when his constant attacks on bourgeoise brought forth a series of controversies for him. But he has an indomitable spirit and knew how to work his way through tough times. Through his stories, he constantly brought forth the narratives of the natives of Haiti. He was one of those people who gave voice to the Haitian migrants and shaped multiple character dynamics – thereby ensuring that the world gets to see a completely unique side of Haiti. 

2. Edwidge Danticat 

Profession – Novelist and Short Story Writer

Contribution – 

Raised in an enclave, Danticat has been one of the most notable diaspora authors, whose works clearly reflect themes like – diasporic politics, mother-daughter relationships, and the importance of national identity. As a key representative of the range of famous Haitian people, through all her books, she has managed to showcase the beauty of authentic Haitian culture.  

She categorically gave her audience an idea about the nitty-gritty of Haitian society. As one of the most revered global writers, she has been a credible name every time people have searched for famous Haitian people. For those of you who are new to this domain, it is time you check out her contributions right away! 

3. Jean Michel Basquiat 

Profession – American artist, Neo-Expressionism Movement

Contribution – 

One of the best street graffiti painters that the world has ever seen, alas only for a short period of time, Basquiat was the one who combined a Caribbean touch with an African backdrop – and led to the upscaling of street art to cosmopolitan corners. 

Though he was not formally educated in art, his paintings, like – crowns, skulls, and heads, make for a fantastic creation. His works categorically dealt with – sensitive themes of classism, racism, power structures, and colonialism – all of which resonate to date! 

4. Jason Derulo 

Profession – Singer, Songwriter

Contribution – 

Another name that graces this list of famous Haitian people is Jason Derulo, the US-based singer and songwriter with immigrant Haitian parents. In the course of his music contributions, he has made it a point to showcase the strong culture that Haiti has. His single – Whatcha Say, is a clear symbolic representation of his origin and embodies the essence of Haitian resonance. Derulo’s music also refers to the trials and tribulations and lovelorn concerns of immigrant Haitians. 

5. Raoul Peck 

Profession – Filmmaker, Served as Haiti’s Minister of Culture

Contribution – 

You must have heard of the film – I Am Not Your  Negro? One of the most sensitive and topic-driven movies of today’s times, the mind behind it was – Raoul Peck. As one of the critically-famous filmmakers, he has been vocal about Haiti’s social issues and also highlighted the American-Haitian relations multiple times. Peck has been at multiple altars showcasing the truth of Haiti and ensuring that globally, this little republic was viewed through a different lens. His contributions in showcasing Haiti’s cultural richness reached its prime when he was the minister. 

6. Jamie Hector 

Profession – Actor

Contribution – 

Most people know him as Marlo Stanfield (from The Wire). But beyond showcasing his immense talent onscreen, he is also one of the reputed and famous Haitian people, who has lent his hand to multiple causes. His non-profit theatre organization, Moving Mountains, has not only aided major charitable causes but also provided – photography, dance, vocal, and drama training to many youngsters. Apart from that, he has made it a point to advertise the beauty of this country on multiple platforms, helping the world gain a different outlook towards this country. 

7. Elsie Surena

Profession – Author, Artist

Contribution – 

Her artistic contribution to the world has shed light on the concepts of regular life and love – themes often found in her works. Right from childhood, her mother instilled the importance of education and independence in her, which vehemently shaped her artistic abilities. Through her creative works, the world gets to see a seemingly beautiful side of Haiti that leaves people enchanted. 

8. David Jude Jolicoeur 

Profession – Rapper and 1/3rd of the hip hop group De La Soul

Contribution – 

One of the famous Haitian people, with most of his expansion within the American territory, Jolicoeur was also known as – Plug Two or Trugoy The Dove. With him being a direct Haitian by descent, his rap caught up with the innuendos of classic Haitians, making him popular immediately. Given that his primary contribution was towards jazz rap, and eccentric lyrics with eclectic sampling – his music was caught on for one and all! For those who have just heard his name – take some time out and visit YouTube music player to listen to Feel Good Inc! 

9. W.E.B DuBois 

Profession – Socialist, Sociologist, Pan African civil rights activist

Contribution – 

Though he was primarily born and brought up in America, he was of Haitian descent and is known worldwide for his activism towards the Blacks (particularly those of African American descent). He was known as the leader of the Niagara Movement and brought before the world the critical need to address the concerns of the blacks. Not only did he oppose the components of the Atlanta Compromise, but also, constantly uplifted the cause of racial equality in society. His famous works include – Credo and The Souls Of Black Folk which tell the tales of years of oppression that the Blacks had undergone. 

10. Viter Juste 

Profession – Activist/ Community Leader/ Businessperson

Contribution – 

The last of the famous Haitian people who have been categorically known as the Father of the Haitian American community that Miami boasts of is – Juste. He is the person who laid the groundwork for the ‘Little Haiti’ community, and thanks to his perfect business acumen, also opened up a supermart in Port au Prince. Juste has been associated with providing aid to Haitian refugees, and actively campaigned for the inclusion of Haitians in public schools and places. 

Additionally, he is the person who founded the concept of adult education in Miami, which stupendously changed the outlook of the countrymen. 

To date, he is considered as the guiding light for the Haitian community in Miami. 

Parting thoughts 

Though Haiti is technically one of the smallest countries in the world, it has a plethora of art and culture integrated within itself to make it one of the most enlightened countries in the world. Assuming you have read through this list, you are now better aware of the famous Haitian people and how they have spread their light of wisdom to the world. We hope you enjoyed reading this post, and will look forward to more of such entertaining pieces from our side. Keep a watch over this site for more!