The Haitian Roundtable

Consul General of France In New York Hosts Art ExhibitionTo Benefit HRT

An art exhibition benefitting the Haitian Roundtable took place on Thursday June 9 and Saturday June 11 under the patronage of Jérémie Robert, the Consul General, and the Consulate General of France in New York. The exhibition featured the work of 27 artists of Haitian descent. The exhibit’s honorary event chair was Camille Joseph-Goldman, Group Vice President for government affairs at Charter Communications, who was our event sponsor.

Highlights from the event can be found here:

The 1804 List of Haitian-American Changemakers Returns

After a three-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the Haitian Roundtable is thrilled to announce that the 1804 List of Haitian American Changemakers and Ones To Watch Induction Ceremony and Dinner Reception will take place on June 10, 2023, from 6:00pm-10:00pm, at the New York Academy of Medicine in New York City.

In honor of our 15th anniversary, we will recognize 15 Haitian-Americans who have demonstrated outstanding achievement, have been proven forces for change, and have helped to create a better understanding of Haiti and the Haitian community. The list will be selected from nominations submitted by members of the general public and board members of the Haitian Roundtable. Since 2012, HRT has inducted over 160 community, industry and thought leaders of Haitian descent to the 1804 List.

What Role for the Diaspora?

More than 2 million people of Haitian descent live abroad and send $3.3 billion annually to Haiti. But could they be doing more to help Haiti out of its spiral of poverty and violence?

Yes, says HRT Board Member Joel Dreyfuss in an article for Politico. “…as Haiti has sunk into despair, the diaspora could be a lifeline. Haitians living abroad are not tainted by the corruption that pervades the political class in Haiti, and have achieved success in more meritocratic societies. The diaspora has acquired expertise, cultural and political clout, and experience living in democratic countries. As America struggles to respond to Haiti’s crisis, policymakers in Washington and diaspora members themselves should think about how to tap this resource.”

For the complete article, click here.

Our Mission

The Haitian Roundtable (“HRT”), founded in 2008, is a not-for-profit organization of Haitian-American professionals committed to civic engagement and strategic initiatives benefiting the Haitian community. The organization seeks to heighten awareness of Haitians as an important constituency among thought leaders and newsmakers, policymakers and institutions through partnerships, programs and events recognizing Haitian excellence. HRT is committed to working collaboratively with the goal of redefining the narrative about Haiti and Haitians. We are guided by our Motto: As Haitians, We Are The Keepers of Our Legacy.

The 1804 List of Haitian-American Changemakers and Ones to Watch

Haitian History Is Black History

During February, the Haitian Roundtable commemorates Black History Month by celebrating Haitian independence, history and culture.

For 2021, we honor three contemporary Haitian heroes: Humanitarian Marguerite Erasme Lathan, NYC Council Member Farah N. Louis and Elie Mystal, Justice Correspondent for The Nation magazine.

Haiti Dialogue Series

HRT hosts the Haiti Dialogue Series, which serves as a forum to discuss current and relevant topics that impact the Haitian community. The Dialogue Series brings together distinguished thought leaders and accomplished practitioners for candid conversation on a variety of important issues.

Kreyol Connection

HRT frequently sponsors Kreyol Connection. These networking receptions offer opportunities for professionals to celebrate Haitian culture after work, as they build lasting social bonds. The events are held at elegant venues throughout New York City and co-hosted by various high profile Haitian-Americans.