I'm Caribbean Canadian (my parents are Jamaican and Grenadian to be specific) and I have the MOST respect for Haitians because they gained independence and it's unfortunate that propaganda was spread about them and that they are still trying to recover because of France. It's crazy to see the difference between Dominican Republic and Haiti
+Chenai David Girl I agree. Random but can you explain to me the Caribbean Canadian culture? This is kinda new concept for me to be honest. I am Caribbean-American so we are kinda ignorant to the unique histories of other countries. I only picked up on it watching Latoya's Life and NaturalNeiicey's vlogs. Btw lemme know if this question is too vague?
+Dani X its hard to explain but I don't feel that it would be too different from the Caribbean- American culture to be honest though but I guess I can't compare it because I don't really know any Caribbean-American people other than a few cousins and they are basically the same as my siblings and I. I think that maybe Caribbean-Canadians embrace their Caribbean background a little more in the sense that a lot of us speak patios on a daily basis mixed in with regular English, a lot of our slang is Jamaican patois however, all of this is from my Toronto perspective. It also depends on your parents and how much they embrace their roots, how long they've been here and how old they were when they moved. If you're interested I have a channel too but yeah I hope that answered your question
+Nicole Roach Haiti helped the slaves inlouisiana gain their independence and that's why Louisiana has creole influence. Haiti helped Venezuela gain its independence that's why Venezuela has some of the colors of the Haitian flag on their flag as a salute and appreciation for them. Haiti helped Jamaica etc...they were the pioneers of freedom.
+Gerv “Gervynyc” san I never knew all that history but yeah 100% I have the most respect for Haitians and France should honestly pay them back it's really all ridiculous. I saw a side by side comparison of Dominican Republic and Haiti, it's unbelievable
I really love these types of videos because I feel like black people as a whole are ignorant to each other's experiences and really opens up for a conversation past the ones we've had before. Thanks Jouelzy
A person born and raised in the Caribbean and a person who is born in America to Caribbean parents have two completely different life experiences I feel.
Your experience is only different from an African American in terms of geological location. But hear this. Blacks in America that are defendants of slaves and alll black west indians or Caribbeans as you call them. Are all Hebrew Israelites. Just like Latinos and native American Indians are Hebrew Israelites.
I loved this video. I'm an African American who grew up in Flatbush Brooklyn. To say that my ethnicity was questioned on a weekly basis is an understatement. The majority of black people in my HS were Caribbean and I lived in a predominately Haitian area of Flatbush. I knew who I was and was proud of my being American, so when people asked where I was from, I said "Here"...where your parents from, "here" and when I eventually told them I was American, they were always shocked and (sometimes annoyed) like the never had seen an African American in their life. I understand having cultural and ethnic differences in the black community, but the bottom line is our ancestors were brought from Africa and dropped here, dropped there and dropped over there and in the end, we're still black to white folks. That's all. I find it interesting to hear what I've known for a while... that some of them, think that they're 'better' than AA's. If they want to believe that, fine, but it goes hand in hand with the way blacks want to be divisive with one another. From #teamlightskinned to #teamdarkskinned ...all that bullshit. How about #TEAMBLACK #PROBLACK
+lsweetberriesl chile, im an African American from boston and i know the struggle too. I'm asked my ethnicity ALL THE TIME!!!!! The worst is having someone tell me im not african american. lol. We (boston) have a huge variety of Black ppl here and it seems like all the african americans from boston moved to atlanta! lmfao. but my brother says this quote that i use to all the time "the only real difference between americans and carribeans is a boat stop". of course our cultures are different but all derive from african and european background. we are all mixed down with african, european, asian/native. no one is better than the other. we are all just ppl. plus, my mom def got on my ass about chores, punishment, or whatever. my mom wasnt a hitter (for the most part) but i would be grounded for months!!!! i would rather take the beating! lmfao.
+Lani Roberts I know the difference but thank you for educating others. For the sake of this video, I'm grouping us 'colored folks' as black and as I said in my previous comment, no none (a.k.a white folk) will know the difference Caribbean-American and African-American.
The Zoe Pound, like other gangs, was created in response to the mistreatment of Haitians. In Miami, there was a lot of beef between the African-Americans and Haitian community. Fighting back and slowly but surely gaining the "respect" of the African-American community instilled a since of pride in Haitian-Americans. Despite the negative connotation associated with the term Zoe, within the Haitian community, when I tell people I'm a Zoe, its sends the message "Don't mess with me. I am Haitian and proud". As a first generation American, I struggled with my identity, I grew up in Little Haiti and only considered myself to be Haitian. I didn't realize I was "black" until someone called me out on it. At the time, I didn't consider myself black because every year during Black History Month, nothing was taught about my history, which did not start in this country. My mother explained to me that being black had nothing to do with my culture or history, but with race. She taught me without the struggles of African-Americans we would not be able to enjoy the liberty we do now. Growing up I did believe I was better than African-Americans. This was something implied and preached throughout the community. At all costs, it was parents duty to keep their children from being "Americanized" (read: African-Americanized because there was nothing wrong with being white washed). Through research and learning, I discovered, I am just culturally different and owe a lot gratitude to the African-Americans who sacrificed themselves and continue to do so, because, again, without them, I could not be here to enjoy the freedom I have today.
Hatians been dealing drugs since the 90s....what African American made them do that? P.S. you aint Dessoline ... We know now that Hatians PAID REPARATIONS TO FRANCE UNTIL 1980S after getting your leaders killed.
It is interesting how black culturals across the country have different views on African Americans or black culture in general. When I was growing up in the 757 in VA I had friends that were African, mixed, African American, carribean backgrounds, and I knew we had cultural differences but I always just viewed us as black. never thought i was better and they never thought they were better. we were all in the same boat....growing up in similar neighborhoods, family dynamics, etc. I didn't have dealings with other black cultures distinctively differentiating themselves until maybe college. But then again maybe its cuz Im a black woman born in Oregon raised in VA. My life, upbringing and perspective is just different.
+Shantia Allen Yea i agree you when she said she thought they were better based off of upbringing i was thinking why??? My parents discipline me, gave me chores and if i didn't them their were consequences hell i'm 21 and still got chores lol but I am living for free so that's the least I can do.
+Ronnie Adore i think perception of black cultural is just different depending on where you go. Where I'm from there's not alot of diversity when it comes to black cultural. I wasn't introduced to other black cultures until college. As far as upbringing I just believe that is just a case by case basis because my momma didn't play no games lol
Shantia Allen Yea your absolutely right, it definitely depends on the parents. Same because where I'm from their isnt noticeably a display of black culture, honestly lately I'm confused about my own culture I don't even know exactly what it is and often feel like I don't have a culture compared to others. I know we do have a culture but it's not celebrated or made known, not in my househould or the area that I live in.
I am Jamaican (my father) and Haitian (my mother). I am West Indian. I am a Black woman. I am Caribbean. I am proud of my culture . I never ate African American (soul food) until I went to undergrad at FAMU.
+Sidney Jean Hey!!!! yea. their cuisine is totally different than ours. I definitely feel our food (well ALL island food) is way better and tastier than African American food.
Haitians had pride because of it's history. People of Harlem had pride because of it's history. The common theme is black people were doing well at one time and allowed outside forces to derail, destroy and divide us. We need to continue to educate ourselves daily on why we should be proud of being black. I often ask myself why is it so easy for us turn against each other? I like to think as smart brown people we can see pass the lies and manipulation.
I don't know what she's talking about as of black children don't get whipped or don't have to do chores. I swear I felt like that was the purpose of having children at one point since my siblings and I did ALL of them. It amazes me how ignorance leads to assumptions like that.
I have always had immense respect for Haiti ever since I was a kid and studied Caribbean History. Haiti lit the flame that gave ALL of us more leverage for freedom.
I am Haitian descent. I was born and raised in Canada and now have lived in the U.S for over 20yrs. I identify as Haitian Canadian. My American born children identify as Haitian-American. Most Caribbean folks do not identify as African-American because that term negates where we our family originates from.
I don't consider you to be AA. I see you as descendents of enslaved Africans that were dumped on the various islands. I know y'all are Africans. Y'all just got off the boat about 80 years before the mainland, and the first was came from the islands. They did not come directly from Africa initially. I consider myself African because I am a descendent of Africans that were dumped on the mainland and an America because who I am is shaped by our American mainland sojourn here over the last 40o years. I get it. If I had to go and live somewhere else to survive or if I went to one of the islands to live, Jamaica for example, I would never consider myself a Jamaican. However, I know that I'm an Africans, and I encourage my direct family, the AA community, to travel all over the African continent. Lets reconnect and go back to the source. We are the original man and woman baby. I am very much familiar with the divide and conquer strategy of white supremacy. The whites come from different ethnic groups, however, they ban together under white supremacy and rule 90 percent of the rest of us. In case you don't know, white males are only 5 percent of the world's population, with their women they are 10%. Damn it how can African men the world over allow this?
"I'm not sure where American culture ends or begins" This is how I have felt all of my life. And that mention of derision is real. Because I remember growing up, I never though Haitians were Caribbean because they spoke a different language than we did. Similar to the way that we never considered Puerto Ricans, Cubans, and Dominicans to be Caribbean. I am happy that we got the Haitian American perspective because it is often overlooked.
Your friend need to come down south. We whoop our kids down here AND they have chores. By the way, I'm from Shreveport, La. And I'm a PROUD African American.
+lilallnatural1 Black folk definitely tend to be more strict than white folks, but I've found that some white folks can be very strict, too. Much of my childhood was spent in a predominately white upper-middle income suburb, but after living in a mostly white low-income/working class area temporarily a couple years ago, I started to observe more strict white parents. Stereotypical "trailer park" white women be sounding like some black mamas up in these stores, y'all. 😂
I'm Caribbean American my mom is from Barbados and my dad is from Brooklyn. I was born in Brooklyn and living there I was surrounded by Jamaicans, Haitians, Africans and other different cultures. It's extremely different growing up in a Caribbean household compared to an American household. The Caribbean culture is so beautiful and I wish more people knew that.
This was an excellent conversation! As a Jamaican-American I can relate. I would love to see a part 2 video, and perhaps with other Caribbean-Americans as well.
rahzi harris I'm aware that Jamaica is not in America. I was born here but my family is from Jamaica. I embrace my Jamaican roots hence why I referred myself as a Jamaican-American (same concept like the young lady in this vid who comes from a Haitian background).
rahzi harris Jamaica is NOT in Central America. It is in the West Indies/Caribbean. I've traveled to both the Caribbean and Central America....And let's try spreading positive vibes instead of negative.
+redbar.. And you are a prime example as to why so many first generation Caribbean American children have so many issues with themselves. You can't get acceptance from Americans nor people at home. Sad.
I'm a proud southern American who has gone to the west Indian day parade in Brooklyn on eastern parkway several years in a row and waved my huge American flag with boastful pride! I've always loved the fact that I am a southern American (I'm from Florida and lived in the Bronx from 2004-2015) and have never hid my American Heritage. I have long friendships with west Indians, Africans, Caucasians, Latinos and African Americans as well and have gotten along with everyone. I think that once we all understand that were all human beings where you're from doesn't really matter because at our core we are a lot alike in many ways. Thanks for yet another great video!!!! I love all your posts.
I'm African American and my boyfriend is Haitian and he and his family truly believe that they are "better" than African Americans however, love everything about our culture and don't realize how Americanized they actually are. But as soon as they see a black person fighting on world star that's that "American stuff" but they can yell cuss fight all they want and it's reasonable because they're Haitian. 😒 Like I really don't get why everyone wants to pick and choose when they want to relate to us, it's cute when we're trending on Twitter empowering ourselves then they want to join and that's fine but let one negative thing happen with one AA then they want to separate and point fingers like why can't we all unite as people of African decent and stop putting each other down.
Tony Jackson Trump about to cut section 8 and food stamps, we going to have a lot more African Americans homeless, lots of them going stand in front of them liquor stores begging Haitians for a dollar. I'm a spit on they faces and give them an 1804 Haitian ass whooping
I understand her aggravation with the "you do voodoo?" b.s. I'm from Louisiana and outsiders ask that all the time. I grew up bilingual (we take French starting in kindergarten & my grandma spoke it). Southeast Louisiana is jam packed with Haitian influence. Great video!
+Genese Knox Is it really Haitian influence or more that when you take West African slaves who are dominated by the French, the cultural mix will yield from similar results regardless of exact location? Maybe the influence is more Fulani or Yoruba then exactly Haitian?
+Jouelzy a little of both. I agree with you about the roots of it all being more of a west African influence. However, after all the (forced) mixing/mingling I do think Haitians have their own (hybrid) culture. New Orleans celebrates many Haitian people. New Orleans wouldn't be New Orleans without them. In the early 1800's, New Orleans used to be over 60% Haitian (free people).
+fran.chesca lol. Where did you get this from? So you saying Black Haitians came to America to fight for independence (so your saying the revolution war) and settled in the South? I'm not following.
Thank you @Jouelzy for your conversations that provide lots of useful information. I was born and raised in Africa (Uganda) and we always loved African Americans. When the movie Roots was visiting people's living rooms via bootlegged video tapes, we could not believe the horror. It had been downplayed in our history books. I got a very watered down version and was RUDELY awakened. It is so interesting to find out that there are other "cultural" wars (Hatians do this, Jamaicans are like that etc) going on between groups of black people. I think that the rumors and stories are handed to us because people wish to DIVIDE us. I'm not sure about other places, but in Kampala, we loved African Americans. We tried talking like you, dancing, singing, dressing... we felt that you were just extensions of us living in a different place. Of course there was no context, but that has been the beauty in finding out. I've been to a family reunion of a large African American family in St. Louis. It was nothing like I've ever experienced! I was grateful for the way the embraced me and made fun of my accent. Let's not buy into the nonsense that has been passed down to us, the stuff that makes sure we're always kept divided. We're all interesting and have something to offer, something to share that provides an amazing glimpse into what Africans can become. Look how we've thrived in the face of insurmountable odds. Slavery, colonialism, oppression, interference in our governance, institutionalized racism. Look at us, wherever we are in the World. We are amazing. Let's celebrate that and forget the divisiveness. :D
I'm trying to figure out why people from the West Indies or Africa think black Americans don't beat their children !???! My mom tore me up lol! Like ...chille the switch 😩😩😩 extension cord 😩😭 the belt , the shoe !! Make up back !! Lawdddd . Black momma's don't play period ! No don't care where you're from as a black person
Amber Polk Truth is they think we all the same and act as if all African American lives in our house lol Also thinks our parents birth the same children. They don't get that we all are not raises the same but have the same nationalities. Also they are trying to act like there are no bad Africans and Caribbean people which is not true. I see it on videos all the time. I was watching this Jamaican guy CZcams channel and he was talking about Jamaican women needs to stop twerking, having babies out of wedlock, and stop killing each other. The funny thing is they are talking about us on what's going on in their country and not what's going on in their's which it don't make any since! They act like we are the only people that have people in our country that act like a fool and lives the wrong life but the truth is there are bad and good people all over the world. The ones who is acting in this matter are lost souls and needs help spiritually and mentally. What we need to do as people of color is to love, respect, and unify with each other.
Amber Polk They only have limited exposure to other people, some choose to believe in the negative narrative of Black Americans because it makes them feel better.
Also Haitians are so proud to be the first free country from slavery since 1804, we kinda want to honor our ancestors by adding that we are Haitians first.
The Caribbean experience in Canada is different because of the large influx of Caribbean and African immigrants in the 50's, 60's and 70's. If someone here (in Canada) asks a black person where they are from they are referring to their nationality or their parents nationality. I have a friend that is Canadian black, (which is rare depending on the Province you live in) when she is asked about her background and replies Canadian, she'll be asked the question again until she explains that her parents are from Nova Scotia which is a Province that has a large black Canadian population. However when I travel to other countries and I'm asked where I'm from I say Canada.
+fran.chesca you are probably right. When I was growing up there was no mention of Canadian Black history in school. It wasn't until grade school that I met my friend a "real" Canadian black person and even then when I first met her she told me she was Caribbean at first LOL. I think this relates to the mob mentality mentioned in the video. Where I grew up the majority of Black people were Caribbean so if you weren't then you were kind of like an outsider. In the US the majority of Blacks are American. Now that we have Black History Month I'm sure more kids are aware of Canadian black culture.
Very interesting conversation. I do think there is a tendency for African Americans (speaking for myself and personal experiences) to be less prideful about their ethnicity bc we've been taught and treated as though we're not true Americans for centuries and I can honestly say I've never really identified with the idea of being American. I think such a tragic and violent history here makes us weary to claim it. As well I think people thinking it doesn't sound as cool to say you're from the West Indians/Carribean goes back to the fetishization around "exotic" people or the exotic nature of indigenous black bodies who lead these seemingly other worldly lives.
Tell your friend she can visit Haiti! I was born in the US and my parents are Haitian. I've visited Haiti almost every summer since I was a baby and I am 23 years old. I meet so many Haitian Americans that do not visit Haiti because they think it's not safe and they're missing out on greatness!
+Positively Doana I wonder if her parents kept her away from Haiti because they were political. I have a friend whose father was killed when he went back. He had been involved in community organizing before he left.
Just know we all come from Africa... But here's the thing, African Americans were almost stripped completely of African teaching and cultures; where as Caribbean islanders and Southern American where able to hold on to majority of the African culture... Look at the Carnivals in the tropical regions... Black Americans don't have African heritage carnivals.. But black Americans were still able to mold America because of our gene pool that never left us (music, dance, singing, etc.)
+Joh-Van James The USA commonly sent a lot of Afro-Americans to the Caribbean 1.) Banishment 2.) Domestic trade. That is why you see North American Indian Headdress in Carnival.
+Joh-Van James Yea for example the governor of the South Carolina Colony owned Colonies in Barbados, Jamaica, & Trinidad (1600s) he sent a lot of people there. Domestic trade is the most under discussed part of our history. Self-Study on our people in the west is very inadequate.. They keep trying to make it seem like there wasnt that many people in North America but they were sending people to Europe, Canada, and West Indies. They sent more people to Europe than the US which today would be Afro-American. There are also Afro-American creole groups on the island of Hispaniola that fled there during the 1800s as well as in Liverpool. I forget there names. They sent A LOT of people to Africa(1700s-1800 & Prior). Brazilians went to Togo, Ghana, Nigeria, Angola, Benin. Afro-Americans Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia, Senegal. Cubans also went to Nigeria.
I was born in America, but my parents are from Trinidad. I didn't grow up in an area with many West Indians. I basically grew up in a very white area. There were two African American families who helped my mom babysit me growing up. I identify as "West Indian" or "Afro Caribbean", but I feel closer to African Americans than the woman in this video.
I have cousins who feel the same as you do. Their parents are from Trinidad but they were born in the US and identify more as African American. I guess it really depends on where you grew up in the US.
+5chocolatedragon You can tell, although she was born in the US, she has a distinctive non African-American accent. You can tell she had to learn english in school, not a home. Although he skin is black, she probably has more in common with the average mexican american or any other hyphenated-american from a non-english speaking background. It is what it is, she gets treated as an African American until the moment she opens her mouth, then people's demeanor change whether they know it or not.
I'm British Trinidadian by birth but I grew up in America and my mother is African American. I can totally relate to what she was saying. Arriving in America as a five year old I had a true cultural shock. I was not used to African Americans and we moved to the south of America. I grew up in ATL, GA; B'ham, AL; then we moved to TX. My mother is from Mississippi. So I had a true awakening of the experience of being in the "Dirty South" But I still grew up in a British Caribbean home. The food we ate like Salt fish and Bake, Baked beans and toast, Cornbeef and Cabbage. Provision, Porridge and Roti, and yet we would still have a few sprinkle of African American in my meals, Collard Greens, Grits, Fried Chicken. There is a difference culturally of how we grow up and the sounds, smells and food that we eat and it is interesting to see how we express our pride in who we are and how we identify culturally. I'm a proud black woman and I'm a proud British Trinidadian woman.
Black Americans be proud! Dismiss anyone from the diaspora that thinks differently of you and your people. You have a rich proud culture. Your people are educated, ingenious, spiritual, resilient and have paved the way for the liberties that many immigrants take advantage of now. Arm yourself with knowledge of your history and stand tall.
Okay, so I'm born and raised in New Orleans and I get that voodoo comment all the time when I travel outside of Louisiana...it is annoying because I've never practiced that, lol. However I'm not Haitian, I'm Black or African American and I didn't interact with many Caribbean or African black people until I went to FAMU. New Orleans is majority black American, with heavy creole influence, but we don't have a big group of Caribbean people here. Just funny how I was the opposite of being exposed to other black people.
Honorelle Henry girl I’m from Baton Rouge I know actually where you are coming from ! People get us confused with being Haitian but I literally had not met a Haitian until I moved to Florida!! I honestly didn’t even know they existed until I was 12 ! I honestly met my first Caribbean black as a teenager
The reason i think Haiti gets overlooked for one is because they are french speaking unlike other Caribbean countrys they can relate more toward each other because they all speak english dialect...therefore it is definietly easier for a trini to understand a Jamaican then a Haitian understanding a trini..
proud Vincentian living in Brooklyn since my late teens. since I've came here I've come to learn that black Americans look down on islands. when I have conversations with ppl often times their reaction is " wow you know that " like we have tv's, the internet and we go to school it's very annoying unlike most we in the Caribbean are taught world history and geography along with regional and local.
love your comment I'm a very very proud Vincy and I hate when ppl speak bad about any Caribbean island because I'm a West Indian by birth , like the video say we are divided by water but still have many things in common , I personally don't speak bad about African American but I hear them speak bad about us .
amen sister. when I can here in 2015 a guy thought we live under palm trees on the beach. he was surprised how knowledgeable I was about history, geography and current events.
That side eye when she said I thought we were better LMAO. I made the exact same face when I heard it. She was right about the slight change in your accent though. I think that's a sign of being respectful and wanting to pronounce words from other cultures properly and I appreciate it. You pronounce floors (flaws) like you were born and raised in Brooklyn. I love it. For a West Indian who's not Haitian I will say the prejudice of Haitians in my culture was based more on colorism and phenotype. Rather than voodoo. Tbh when I first clicked on the video I assumed your friend was Trini or Grenadian. Growing up I was taught Haitians look a certain way. Which is nonsense but it's what I grew up hearing. There is also and assumption that Haitians have a lack of diversity because they never received indentured Indians. It wasn't until I met a very light Haitian girl in high school that I realized they aren't all very dark. I learned there are Lebanese and Syrian Haitians. That the ruling class is mostly mixed creoles like you said. Also Haitians don't assimilate as fast as the rest of us. I felt like their parents weren't into buying fancy school clothes. So in school they dressed different and stood out. Which caused a lot of teasing.
My family is from Trinidad and I am from East Flatbush, Brooklyn. I grew up around mostly West Indians but I never felt better than African Americans. Neither did most of my friends who were mostly Haitian or Jamaican. There were some in my school or neighborhood who felt that way but it wasn't very common to my knowledge. I do remember Haitians being harassed so much that some pretended to not be Haitian. Even I struggled with my identity as a teen because back in the 90s being Trini wasn't seen as cool it was all about being Jamaican. I had Jamaican friends but they tended to be cliquish and looked down on other West Indians. The only flak I ever received about my ethnicity came from them. Now that I am older I have such an appreciation for the African diaspora. We all have cultures that we should be proud of and should be celebrated but at the end of the day we are all black people.
+Nope Pei LOL I had a similar experience trying to be friends with Trinis. i would have been your friend. i admit my people are boassy and our countries are competitive with each other. I am in Canada and we have a Carnival. Often some people used to complain that reggae is not a part of Carnival, so no Jamaica float. Course we said its because our float is popular but it still hurt. i don't even want to hear reggae during Carnival but i want to be represented. We fight about stupid things but we still love each other. yes we are all black people with the same damn struggles.
Based on past history it is believed by many Jamaicans that Trinidadians hate us. So for us it's the other way around. But I love all Caribbean countries and I think we should stick together...
+Toni Alex I'm both so I def experienced that odd animosity sometimes but honestly, its not a huge deal anymore. I don't think anyway...but Trinidadians are the dominant Caribbean Island in Crown Heights and Jamaicans are more prominent in Flatbush. Very different cultures.
This was interesting Sorors.... But her comment "That we were better" struck a nerve.... Lol. I am a PROUD African American black woman!... Nice video nonetheless....
I feel u too. I'm annoyed by her. She seems arrogant and contiously ignorant to me. I'm a Proud Black American and She should be thanking us for her existence in the US because her and her parents are not trying to go back to Haiti and leave this cushy lifestyle that our ANCESTORS fought bled and died for. BLESSINGS TO U MY SISTAS
Interesting that she thinks Haitians are a little ‘better’ but they are the lowliest group of Caribbeans. They are represented in a very negative light. This girl is enjoying the freedom that my forefathers died for.
@kryk Walters first of all I'm not hating on anyone. I'm American and proud. You are generalizing about Black Americans only working low wage jobs. There are plenty of Black American Doctors and lawyers and many other professions that we choose to have. This is 2020 not 1820. In 1920 black Americans were doing pretty well too economically. There are plenty of middle class and upper class as well as wealthy Black Americans in this country. Get your facts together my luv. We are not a monolithic people. By the way...are you American??
This was interesting to me. I had a group of friends in high school and one of them was Haitian but the rest of us were African American. The Haitian friend invited us to her house but when her mom came home she said, loud enough for us to hear, "get those black girls out of my house". I never understood how she could say that and she's "black" also?
This video just solidified what I feel and it's frustrating. I just was in a forum with doctorate students in DE. Majority were African, my friend and I African American. Why do these individuals think they are better? She said her truth,but WOW. When a Caucasian person sees you, you are perceived as what? No one is saying deny your culture, but respect those that go through the struggle and built the country you now are prospering in. Our ancestors yes, but the people whose blood runs through our body. Still at the end of it, an African American person is perceived as being at the bottom by all other cultures.
I think she was saying how she used to feel though. The irony is I've had multiple conversations where Africans imply they're better than us Caribbeans, so it's a chain if wilful ignorance and silly stereotypes.
That's not true at all maybe it's just people who migrate to the US that think like that but black americans gave the rest of us black immigrants so much pride to be black and even the idea of being black first then african then your nationality seriously I can't understand why would someone not recognize that. I dunno if you're familiar with Brazil but they went through a similar experience as black americans and unfortunately what they achieved is not as positive as african americans
+J T I agree. Also I am sure she knows that when white sees her she's black. She only expresses HER side. At the end we are suppose to unify, unfortunately, people tend to focus more on different background without acceptance that we are different but the same
+DecadentBeautie I don't think it's necessarily about feeling superior. YOu have to remember that these folks come from a STRONG culture, especially if they're continental African. They belong to a nation (Ibo, Yoruba, Akan, Kongo, etc) , so they speak their mother tongue, which means that they have a culture and a "code of conduct" . This is why some of the more successful blacks are from the diaspora. You have to understand that you basically have no culture, only Africanisms (and I'm not saying this to bash you, it's not your fault) . This is because you speak English as your mother tongue, which in turn means that how you view yourself and the world, is from a European perspective. This is why you have no code of conduct, allowing folks such as Kevin Gates, Stacey Dash (who I don't consider to be Black/African) , Charles Barkley to run around, saying stupid shit without being punished. Having a culture is an intentional thing, it comes as a result of having a nationality. This is what enabled these folks : www.afrikmall.com/team.html to construct AfrikMall in Colorado. facebook.com/afrikmall/ www.afrikmall.com/
Random aside I forgot to mention: In one of my undergrad classes (HBCU) one of my NJ-raised, Trini classmates said she grew up feeling superior because she felt her Black American peers were disrespectful toward their elders. She said she was raised to kiss her elders upon entering a room. I thought that was interesting for so many reasons. One being that we Black Americans often laugh and discuss how white kids act toward their parents and/or talk about how black mamas don't play.... There's so much more I want to say....like how stereotypes about West Indians exist among the West Indian community. I've heard Jamaicans say some not so nice things about Trinis and vice versa. There are layers to this sh*t!!! Anyway, thanks for doing this video, Jouelzy. 😍
I'd notice that non-American blacks love to compare themselves to Black Americans in terms of culture, food, dance, work ethic, upbringing, education, success, wealth, morals, and values.
sexyrose93 and we have to we dont act like aa they are very loud people respect blacks from overseas more foreign blacks are more respectful and discipline and work hard no freebies try to move wsy up the lader.i have and love my ethnicity and culture
@@destiny3354 the diaspora was very influential in the civil rights movement. Especially here in NYC in the 60s. Even Malcolm x was a product of the diaspora. NYC blacks was over 60% immigrants in the 60s. It wasn't just AAs marching.
great video! my dad is Haitian and my mom is american with both Jamaican and southern roots ( from Selma from my grandmothers side ) and my grandmother's family did not hide how they felt about my grandmother having half Caribbean kids and my moother for having half Caribbean kids. As a kid, which took a huge toll on my self identity and self-esteem. But as a adult i totally except and proud to be Haitian, Jamaican and Black american. identify with all that makes me me :)
I'm half Haitian and half Trinidadian. I was born in 1981 and grew up in NY Long Island. Most of the kids I grew up with were Caribbean as well. I NEVER felt any animosity from the other Caribbean students towards me or any other Haitians. It was MUCH love. If anything I think the black American kids had negative pre-conceived notions about Haitians. Jouelzy, where did you hear there was a divide amongst the countries of the Caribbean?Growing up with a bunch of Dominicans, they were cool too. It wasn't until my adulthood when I went to D.R. that I experienced Dominicans feeling a sense of superiority over Haitians.In the end though, Haitians are a strong and proud people with a very rich culture.
+Mich Spence i heard it when I moved to Brooklyn and most of my friends where Trinidadian, Jamaican or Guyanese and they all constantly had negative things to say about Haitians, especially around jouvert & the parade. I hadn't heard anything about Haitians until I got to Brooklyn.
Gurl you are giving me life. I'm born and raised in Flatbush Brooklyn. Bajan and African American roots. I identify as Black. I grew up with the Bajan side of my family so I can honestly say they are my greatest influence. Thank you for addressing this issues among West Indians as well. Love this
I am a Canadian-Haitian and my dad always told me to know Haitians you have to read history books from Haiti or France because America has made a false propaganda about Haiti. Not only we were the only the FIRST BLACK COUNTRY to become independent (when it was Hispanola) we helped a lot of other island to get their freedom as well, all the way down to Brazil. Haitians couldn't get to America in time because of France conflict. Black American unfortunately had to wait 100 plus years to get their freedom. There was some Haitians who were successful to arrive in America and make their mark, (like the first mayor of Chicago) Louisiana had a lot of Haitians mixed with other culture (now called Creole)in Canada as well (since Jacques Cartier... the Canadian Columbus, you could say). There is sooo much we have to discover, history has to be re-written
I don't understand why your pride in Haitian history has to be contrasted to how long AAs waited for their freedom. Rather there has been a cultural exchange that should be used to unify us. America didn't rewrite your history any more than France and the rest of the Caribbean did. So let's assert our pride w/out talking down others.
+Jouelzy I didn't mean to offend anybody. I understand the African-American History more than the others. Being from Canada we had to learn about African-American history more than even African-Canadian History(which the truth is also hidden from history, besides the "Underground Railroad) the point made wasn't to say Haitians are better, rather as an unite black culture Haitians did try to help other blacks to get their freedom as well. United we Stand is the motto. I have never been to Haiti but I would love to, as well as Louisiana, Africa, and other countries to learn more about our history. Before anything, I am a Child of God and we are all the same. Again, Jouelzy, the information wasn't to offend, but to conversate.
+Jeanica2Natural I get it. I don't think you meant to offend, but the way you positioned read differently. I just want us to think about how we assert our pride, which we have every right to, and make the effort to respect the uniqueness of other cultures. No one is greater than, we are different.
Great video Jouelzy. I was born in Ethiopia came to America when I was 2 years old. I can speak and understand amharic(Ethiopian language). I had an accent when I was in Elementary because my parents 90% of the time spoke in Amharic. I even had to take ESOL for two years because girl I was mixing English and Amharic. I was also raised to embrace my Ethiopian culture in every way. Although I haven't went back to Ethiopia since I was 2, I still consider myself first Ethiopian then American and or African American.
+Redeait Meaza Hey, how do you feel about white people trying to claim us as arabs or mixed. It ticks me off because I know we are black and not all of us have bone straight hair. Lol ranting a little, but do you have any thoughts??
I really loved and appreciated this video! I am Haitian American as well and I think Nathalie did an amazing job explaining my experience if not most Haitian American experience in general. I realized that so many people came off ignorant about Haitians but it's not their fault because they just did not know. That's why I have no problem educating other and also being educated about everyone's culture.
This is such an informative video! I'm Indian, so I never really been exposed to the vast cultural differences within the Black community in America. It's interesting to hear about how about how Natalie dealt with being a child of immigrants and relating to her (since I moved to America when I was a small child). This is a topic I'm definitely interested in learning more about!
As a Trinidadian American I never felt any type of way towards black Americans or African Americans. My parents never spanked me but they still instilled fear in my brother in I . My parents didn't want us to be raised the way they were with the switch and whatnot. I didn't know there was a West Indian hierarchy till I went to college in Brooklyn. Haitians were talked about in a negative way and it was pretty sad, it's just a sterotype of unattractive and poor. I've never heard of this in my life. All in all, majority of West Indians are of African decent so why can't we just all love and respect each other as black people?
Really glad you did this video. I feel like I grew up in an insulated Haitian/immigrant community/neighborhood. However, when I did interact with African-Americans I did feel as if there was tension between me and them. Even when I was younger I would eat different food, they knew my parents spoke a different language and made front of me for being Haitian..Still today I feel like there's a huge gap between AA women and me especially when I talk to them I feel like we're so different lol, I don't know how to explain it, I don't want to generalize but even though I'm American I grew up Haitian and I identify more with Caribbean people than anyone else.
I can definitely relate to this! I was born in the Dutch Caribbean, lived in The Netherlands for almost all my life, and now that I'm living in the US, I am like obsessed with getting the pronunciation and syntax right. I never thought it would bother me, but like the girl says... Sometimes people correct you on certain things and it makes you feel a little weird. What is kinda nice though, is that I speak with a Caribbean accent and people think it's the coolest thing! lol Very nice video, cause all black is not the same. We all have a different background and bring something different to the table...
Haitians and most Caribbean folks do think they're better than AAs. I grew up with family members who tried to instill in me that "you're Haitian, NOT American" mentality. I've heard crap like, "I can't deal with AAs cause they're so ghetto" all my life. But I was a rebel lol. Cause where I grew up, I was introduced to a lot of individuals from different background. I didn't take to that. People who I thought were AA were just as Caribbean as me & people who I thought were Caribbean were American af. To me, black is black, and I am black.
I'm so happy to see another Haitian American representing on CZcams Thank you Natalie for sharing you experience. I think it's important for people to remember these ladies are both talking about their individual experiences. I'm Haitian American and live on the west coast. Totally different experience than Natalie living in Brooklyn. I really do like the thought provoking comments this video inspired.
I can definitely relate to a lot of what she said. I'm sure this is attributable to growing up in a place like NYC, but as she lightly touched on, pretty much before say 2002, it wasn't cool to be a foreign black. I had my 'black card' taken soooo many times for not knowing music, or never having 'soul' food, or not knowing certain words or games. I think most everyone who didn't grow up in a Black American household (and not in a place like NYC) can attest to that. I was told I wasn't black ALL the time. Then out of nowhere being foreign was cool and everybody had an aunty or great great grandma who was trini or nigerian or dominican or something.
+Kingteeuhh C (Tee) That's exactly how I feel! When I was little they'd make front of me for being Haitian saying I do voodoo or I talked too white, etc.
I can attest to this and I grew up in an AA household in Delaware. I don't think 2002 came and it was suddenly cooler to be whatever diverse Black but 2002 came and we were older + generally more mature, entering adulthood where we could assert our own personal beliefs vs. regurgitating what we heard in our households. I'm sure there's some young kid being teased for having an accent, talking funny, and not being Black enough. Our worlds have just matured out of that.
I was honesty shocked to hear her say she didn't think African American kids got real life punishment. that's one of the things American Blacks are known for is harsh punishment. must've just been her specific neighborhood. everybody knows African Americans parents don't play. they will beat you up and down the house for not doing the dishes lol.
I have a friend from the deep south and culturally we have a lot in common I'm from west Africa, she had strict parents, she got hit with tree branches, respect for elders etc., etc. Lol
I find it funny how she believed Haitians were better than blacks in America , yet Dominicans as well as other peoples of the Caribbean look down on Haitians. Seriously I can't stand when black people including black people from the continent of Africa play the "game of black hierarchy"
This girls background story same as mine lol Flatbush, Brooklyn, Haitian background, never really meeting African Americans?? Caribbean all around (until I went to high school which was majority white (Italian/Irish) but majority of the black students were Caribbean descent. I met my first AA there). Some of my family has talked about African Americans/Black Americans in a bad way "get up by your boot straps" respectability all around. I never thought I was better than them though, all I know is people had a lot of jokes about us. Thank you for using a Haitian! We need more voices/representation!!! People need to know more about us
As an African American female I grew up in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Many of my closest friends were from Haiti. I did see how they were treated less than other Caribbean cultures. I remembering asking my grandmother were we from a Caribbean island as well. it was always a big no. We are just black. Thank you for this video.shiur out to the 11226, 11210 area.
hello my haitian/virgo sister! Caribbean culture is definitely way different from "African American" culture. We eat different foods, listen to different music, speak different languages, and even participate in different activities.. Im also Haitian American and visiting my black friend's house as a young girl, I could totally see the difference. They played American games, ate "soul food" and listened to old school American music. I live in the states but my household was very much a Haitian household.
I would disagree as someone who is half black American half Caribbean there’s more similarities than we let on. The US is huge and each state is like its own island but when you study each especially when it comes to food there are a lot of similarities because the connection we share to Africa. Music wise we all influenced eachother and took from Africa. There are definitely differences but the similarities are also definitely there
YES!!!! This is so true in many ways. I'm Haitian American and I'm 18 and I grew up in Clinton Hill and spent my high school years in Bed Stuy. I can honestly say that I do not know many African Americans because they do hide under the Caribbean mask. All my life I have gone to school with nothing but Haitians and other kinds of Caribbean people and watching all these flags being thrown up made me honestly confused. All my friends are some sort of Haitian whether it be half or whole. I only REALLY know one African American and even then, she speaks a lot about Jamaicans. While watching, I secretly wanted your line sister to be Haitian and I was beyond happy when she said she was. I related to her in so many ways and I realized that my situation was only slightly different than her's. My parents speak perfect english, and creole, sadly, is not used that much (unless my mom is pissed at us). And tbh cleaning (what my mom is usually ALWAYS mad about) was not done at 4 in morning. We are the normal middle class family, which just so happens to be Haitian and even then I can look at your line sister and know exactly how she felt and what she is talking about. After my mother, taking me to Haiti and making me stay at my grandmother's house there, do I really appreciate and rep my culture. I remember my cousin's and I when we were young, saying that we did not want to be Haitian. And now thinking about it, why wouldn't I want to be Haitian? WE ARE LIT!!!! Now that I am in an environment (college) where diversity is according to major and in my major (acting), blacks are already scarce, I can allow myself to really embrace my culture and show it off. Lol and it started off by me speaking creole to a room full of white kids and one African American (yay!) and I was so nervous but I enjoyed it. MAN BEING HAITIAN IS AMAZING...you know what?...scratch that....BEING BLACK IS JUST WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!
Maybe for you but not for me sorry , for me African culture is the best just like my own culture dance music food clothes , i loves everything about it , and i like African people also ,very proud black women from South America.
I'm also a 1st generation born Haitian-American. Watching this video was so interesting because my experience here in NY is fairly different than Natalie's. I grew up on Long Island and I think because I always attended predominantly white catholic schools, I was never teased for be Haitian. Actually majority of my black students at the schools I attended were Haitian(even in college). So there really wasn't room to be made fun of, therefore I was always a proud Haitian. I made my first Caribbean (non-Haitian) and African American friends in the 9th grade. Even the churches I attended were all Haitian. In regards of Dominicans for the most part I've always had good relationships with the ones I knew. Many of them called me cousin. I always went to DR salons. I also dated a few. Until recently, I feel most of the friction was amongst the older generations. Also unlike Natalie, I've been to Haiti several times and have loved every single trip. I know first hand that all the stereotypes about our island being unsafe, poor, etc aren't all true. There so many beautiful wonderful places that the media here never show. I hate NY beaches bc I'm used to the beautiful beaches over there. Lastly the thing I hate the most are the voudoo stereotypes, especially when it comes from other Caribbean people. One of my Trinidadian exs was warned by his father to be careful bc I'm Haitian and "They do voudoo". Yet, my ex bfs aunt practiced the Obia I believe, which is the exact same thing. None of my family messes with that stuff. Every island has their version of voodoo that's covered up by a different name but Haiti gets the bad wrap.
SongBirdC, you might want to educate yourself about the Haitian Vaudou religion and its role in Haiti's glorious revolution. Accepting the white man's denigration of Afro influenced religions as satanic will hold you back intellectually.
I honestly really hate this convo. I’m Jamaican-American & it bothers me how she said “I’m better. I’m different.” Eventhough she explained it it’s still aggravating. It’s not AAs fault there is no solid culture. And all Caribbean’s aren’t fully into their studies. Furthermore, I’ve ran into more colorist Caribbean’s than AAs which is mind-boggling. The initial difference between us is a Damn. Boat Stop. Period. Any other differences pass that are a result of WHERE we were dropped off at. Good God. I’m sure the ancient colonizers are laughing in their graves looking at how we STILL cannot get it together and still can’t see that we’re all the same🙃
AA and Carribbean people really dont know where they came from if they researched their origins most of them would find out they are the same people and the people of the bible
Best believe my Jamaican ass clicked this sooooo fast. Big up mi country lol!! But this is so true. Like everythingggg. I'm 1st generation and have had the pleasure of going back to Jamaica many times, but both of my best friends are Haitian and the smear campaign that they made against Haiti still effects the way some Haitians view themselves and how some people view them. When I was younger, I definitely felt like I was better than EVERYONE, African-American, Latino, white any other Caribbean country just because I'm Jamaican because I really fuck with my culture. But then I grew up and realized that pride should not lead me to looking down on people. Also that I'm black lol and everyone hates us, and I literally only have heterosexual and able-bodied privilege. I feel like people from the Caribbean are just so happy that they make it out of these poor countries that no one can't tell them shit anymore, but its like they still choose their country over anything else because its just lit back home and nothing else can compare. But anyway, awesome video Jouelzy, I always click that like button cuz your content is amazing.
@@smoothnubian You do know that slaves from colonies from the Caribbeans were also brought here, right? Like they said in the video, they are speaking on their own experiences, I've never thought I was better than anymore and definitely not because I was Haitian/Caribbean. I've encountered African Americans in Florida who bullied me and other Haitians and thought they were better though but you don't see me generalizing ALL African Americans.
Wow didn't know Caribbean blacks drew such a sharp line between us. My father told me about this but I refused to believe it. But after watching this video and reading these comments I'm very disappointed.
I don't think that's true for all Carribeans, but I think we're coming from a strong cultural background that is different from yours. The line is definitely becoming more blurred over time I feel.
chinieyesmilez what ???? string cultural back would be that ur just from the carribean nothing more that's it ur blk African decendant just like African American
@@shamika5300 I'm Haitian born and raised, while we're all black and consider you all my people, don't be blind to the differences between African-American, immigrant African American and Caribbean American. AA with rude questions and comments about not looking Haitian, and white ppl calling me classy and not what expected. Haitians left their sh*thole country to start over because big nations took everything from us, and we contributed a lot to other nations as well as this one. Do your research on the Haitian's contribution to USA, starting with Chicago's founder, and if Trump can find a loophole in my citizenship to send me home, my family still owns my childhood home and also the old country one, and gave back by building schools and churches. All of my black people, you're going to the top, I'm with you. You're messing up every 5 seconds and I'm nowhere to be found, I'm sorry but no one's dragging me down, I don't care what race you are. Smooches!!
I identify as Haitian American, I was born in Haiti and came to america was I was young. I was raised in America. I didn't learn to love being African American until college, that when I learned the unity and power that we have in being black. Growing up, like Natalie, I was raise in a close knit Haitian community in Florida. African American hated us, well I thought so. We were teased, jumped, the Haitian flags were burnt in front of us, so I learned to love my self and have pride in who I am. I was always scared of White people and African Americans because of all the hurt I faced growing up. Other Caribbeans that I've met felt the same deepening on the location they were from. I always thought and felt like we were outsiders. If whites can accept that they have different cultures, if Latinos can accept that they have different cultures, why couldn't African Americans accept me and my culture. When I got to college, I met more "woke" black people, black people from all around the globe from African Americans to Africans from the the different countries in Africa it was amazing. They all identified as whatever their culture was and American. They taught me how to love being African American. There were African Americans who loved me just because I was black. African Americans who actually want to learn about me and my different background. The interaction we have with other makes us who we are. I don't think I'm better than anyone, nor do I think others are better than me. its a sense in learning to grow as a community of multi cultured blacks. To anyone outside of black we are all BLACK... point blank period.
I agree with your friend I was born and raised in Brooklyn. My Mother is Panamanian and my Father is from St. Kitts. I grew up with strictly Caribbean people, not until college did I meet African Americans. I would love to see a comparison with a Afro-Latina.
Erya Bolonha I think as two latinas we are very aware of what latin means but considering that the young women in the video spoke on what she identifies as (west indian/caribbean). She never said she identified as Afro Latina. So speaking for myself I would like a self identifying Afro Latino (preferably spanish speaking) to also be apart of this conversation.
+Erya Bolonha being that her friend is Hatian I do not think she identifies with being Afro-Latina. Haiti were colonized by the French and is located in the Caribbean which is not strictly South America.
+ebeledi While Guyana is geographically South American it is culturally Caribbean not sure how it would be relevant to the Spanish speaking countries you named with the exception of Suriname which is Dutch
Ike's Lions Den that’s tricky this is about black cultures now South America is a little different the blacks their are small and too mixed up more European blood and this not a European channel
@@destiny3354 i'm from Suriname , i think you don't much about Suriname , you have the maroons , they have the African roots dance ,music , food, and African clothes , Afro Suriname people are most commen with there African roots ,you sound very ignorant, and Brazil have the most blacks Outside of Africa, they have black culture too , , you must do educatie more about this countries, and not everyone is mixed, Suriname and Guyana belong to the Caribbean too, you must be from America
as a half jamaican, half nigerian, american born person who grew up in SE connecticut where most of the black people in my town were haitian American I found this so interesting. When I was waaaaay younger I got made fun of for being African but I think that was because school kids are just terrible. It's definitely a turn of the tables to see africa and african culture being so ... i guess the word is celebrated... in america today. Since all my friends were haitian growing up it gave me a really cool perspective and I absolutely love haitian culture, we're all just one carribean family, you seeit? Even though I have a Nigerian name and I think I look very Nigerian, I grew up with my Jamaican mom and her family (not my dad) in a household that spoke jamaican patois and practiced jamaican culture... I always felt more Jamaican. Now that I live in Europe I just say I'm American to save myself the complication and because Italians don't consider italian-americans italian so am I really jamaican or nigerian? I think as kids who grew up in America we have a culture so similar to each other and a bit different from our families in jamaica or nigeria for example that I feel 'most' accurate calling myself American. Only anther first generation jamaican or nigerian could TRUELY know my experience, you know? The 'american' identity is an immigrant identity so as long as you're a US citizen who grew up in America you're american and will be seen as only such outside of the states. Anyways the other day I was told that I wasn't african american because my parents weren't born here so I was like...... ok............. but jamaican-nigerian-american is way too long! I always felt like having immigrant parents I was always under way more pressure to succeed. My mom struggled a lot to come to america and give her kids a better life than she had so I felt like I had no choice other than to achieve excellence where as I don't think my AA friends had that type of pressure to deal with... but I can't really speak for them :P buuuut that's my two cents. awesome video guys!
@@johnroach1101 just do your AFRICAN ancestry and find out what specific people you come from in africa. Then educate yourself about them and try to make a trip there. Build solid friendships. Start a family with a woman from there? The connection is never lost.
Thank you for sharing your experience. I think in places outside of the Caribbean there is a real negative connotation with "You are not...", in my experience (in some countries) a nationality is just a nationality and doesn't define who you are. My father is Jamaican, my mother is Trinidadian, my sister is American and I am also Trinidadian. Even though my sister has never lived in America and she only has citizenship, I would never say she was Jamaican, Trinidadian, or one of the two "-American", I would just say she is American and that doesn't take away from her Trinaican culture. It doesn't make her any different in my eyes or my family's.
I'm Carribean and African, Jamaican and Nigerian specifically. I identify more strongly as an African just because I grew up in Nigeria but I love my Jamaican heritage lol. I did visit Jamaica as a child and grew up eating the food listening to the music etc along side my Nigerian. I think both cultutes are very strong and I do agree former British (speaking) colonies do tend to have an advantage emigrating due to speaking English - they just had to deal with our accents lol.
After looking at these comments I'm genuinely confused on why people are bashing her. She is explaining her experience as a Haitian American. As an African American from the south, I have nothing but respect for immigrants from the African diaspora. How many times do we have to emphasize that we are all different. We have different cultures and upbringings and THAT IS OKAY. Much respect to people from the West Indies and Africans.
This was a great topic to discuss. My family is from the island of St. Vincent and I was born in Brooklyn, NY. I can relate to your line sister because I also grew up in Flatbush. In the 90s, I was constantly teased because of my dark complexion, natural thick hairx and conversative dress. Classmates called me "haitian booty scratcher, african, black and crispy" because of how I looked. In the 90s, it was looked down upon to be Haitian. I identify as West Indian-American, Black, Caribbean American, Vincy-American or Vincentian American because I was raised with the values of the culture of St. Vincent. When it comes to dating, it has been easier to date someone from the Caribbean than an African American or African due to ethnic similiarities and differences. When I visit St. Vincent, my relatives may playfully call me a "Yankee" but they understand how much pride I have in my family's heritage and would not trade it for the world. Side note: I am currently visiting Houston for the first time and it feels very isolating (could be because I am in the S.W.A.T area). In Brooklyn, especially Flatbush, I always encounter people and places that identify with the Caribbean from the shops, dress, loud music playing, interactions among people, etc.
I'm happy you brought up the whole Haitian/Dominican topics. I've seen horrible comments made about Haitians by Hispanics mostly Dominican people. It's quite sad. Natalie gorgeous,and this video was very informative
I LOVED this conversation. I was born, raised and currently still reside in Brooklyn. I am that "african american" you spoke of, descended on both sides from parents AND grandparents of southern descent (Virginia and North Carolina). I remember growing up around a large west indian/predominantly Jamaican community in East Flatbush (also referred to as the 90s) and I remember there being a very palatable beef between Haitian and Jamaican youth there and could never really understand why or where the animosity came from... But hearing your line sister talk about how the revolution got silenced and propagandized, I'm realizing that may have played a part. Fascinating and informative dialogue... #Props
Joulezy, thank you so much for doing this video. I identify as Haitian - American as well! My mother is American and My father is Haitian. I was born in America, but I grew up in a house hold full of Haitian culture with lots of influences from my father, aunts, and uncles for most of my childhood. When my parents divorced and my mother moved us to another state; I lost much of what I considered to be my Haitian culture and identity. I spent most of my adolescence and childhood feeling like I was an "African American" because absence of my father and the culture and influence that he brought to our home. I struggled with my identity for much of my early-mid twenties in my adult life especially when the questions of "what are you" came up very often in college. I can certainly relate to a lot of what Natalie discussed. And I for sure received the brunt of jokes, discrimination and mistreatment for being a Haitian in my preteens when I went to stay with my father in Orlando, Fl for a few months. I found myself explaining to everyone that I was just "half". I definitely wish I could have been more proud of who I was back then. Children were just mean and brutal back then. This video just brought up so many emotions for me to the point where it pretty much made me call my dad and schedule a vacation to go see him in Florida. Our communication is not as frequent as it should be, but videos like this remind me of how much I appreciate that side of me me. Thank you so much Joulezy for being SMART BROWN GIRL....WE LOOOOOVE YOU!
I'm Jamaican/Cuban descent. Born and raised in the US. What the girl in the video said is right. There are a lot of Caribbean people who feel they are better than African Americans. In the Northeast and parts of Florida, it is very easy to go most of your life and not be around what some call "regular black folks". I wasn't always accepted by AA's because as a Caribbean kid, it is a big part of who you are. We don't eat the same food, music, language, and culture. So I found it easier to be with other Caribbean people. Just certain things when we are together we don't have to explain. That's why Carnival is so popular. We are different islands but there many similarities.
It's interesting to think that it would be easy to get along swimmingly with someone who thinks they are inherently better than you and has no interest in unpacking those thoughts. The possibility of imbalance in that relationship lurks quietly and sometimes overtly. I'm not talking about her specifically. The comment struck a nerve because in my experience, when people rank themselves above or below others, their interactions are rooted in what they feel their position is. The way they talk to and about and deal with the ones they feel they are better than is not, in my experience, a healthy exchange.
I'm both. My dad is Haitian. Mom black American. I identify ass Haitian American..just a really strong sense of pride in culture. I married a first generation Dominican. As I age preservation of my culture has become sooooo important to me. changing my last name was MAJOR. It was such a large part of who I am. My history. Love this series.
I never heard my dad say ANYTHING about Dominicans growing up so I didn't even understand the history. While I was doing the seating chart for my wedding, my dad saw that I had mixed up the tables and put both at many of the tables and he FREAKED out on me. But on the rare occasion where we're all together everyone gets along fine. Have I noticed things that I personally don't like, yes. But, you know... Dani X
Perhaps because I'm older I never claimed anything but African American because that's what I am. I grew up in Bed-stuy Brooklyn, and I didn't know anything about the parade until I was about 19yrs old. On the other hand my cousins grew up in Flatbush and their experience growing up was different than mine.
Great video! Perfect timing since I was having a conversation with someone about the Trujillo era. Mind you, we're Dominican, so imagine how irritating it was to listen to what they "learned." (warning: pretty long comment, lots of thoughts) I had previously been informed about the dehumanizing, abuse, and slaughtering of the Haitians in the Dominican Republic, however, hearing the "justifications" that were brought up made me cringe. This person mentioned everything that Natalie said about what people THINK of Haitians, and even tried to justify what happened. The idea is that at the time the Dominican Republic was plummeting BECAUSE of the Haitians. There was absolutely no way of me convincing this person that what they have been spoon fed is more than likely not true. The idea of Haitians having one of the most negative and nasty culture is embedded in a lot of the Dominicans that grew up during and after that era. This is actually the first time I hear of these opinions being brought up among other ethnic groups, so I found it pretty interesting. Question: Have you ever known a Caribbean-American who had a hard time defining their culture and having to prove themselves because their family had raised them in an assimilated household, completely deprived of their native culture?
+Karlene Israel Your comment is interesting and it kind of reminds me of the Nazis and Germans and how the Nazi spoon fed the germans negativity about the jews (which justified their participation in the genocide of jews). BTW Haitians are dogged out everywhere nothing new, smh. To answer your question, yes I do KIND OF know a Caribbean-American who had a hard time defining their culture and sometimes had to prove themselves. This person is ME lol. I grew up in a Haitian/Jamaican household. My household really wasn't assimilated with the African-American/American culture; but I wasn't exactly traditionally assimilated into the Caribbean culture either. The Jamaican/English spoken culture was more dominate culture in my household, so I didn't know French/Creole even though it was spoken around me alot. I felt deprived because I couldn't communicate with most of the Haitian side of my family. I felt less Haitian and less Jamaican because I wasn't full of either one. Now I embrace it cuss it's literally the best of both worlds to me. I like this question, what about you?
+Dani X I appreciate you for sharing this story b/c I struggle with my cultural identity as well. My grandparents on my mom's side are Haitian. My mother and I are both American born and my father (as far as I know) was Black American. I grew up living with my mom and grandparents and was aware of much of the Haitian culture, but not fully immersed in it as my mom and other aspects of our home were very much American. My grandparents spoke Creole to each other but spoke to me in English, so I never learned the language even though I heard it so much growing up. I've been told that I'm not really Haitian because I don't speak the language or am not fully immersed in the culture, and always felt that I had to prove my identity. It hurts and is embarrassing at times because it feels as if I'm unfamiliar with a large part of who I am and where I came from. But, like you, I've learned to embrace both cultures.
+Dani X I am that Caribbean-American lol. I actually lived in the Dominican Republic for about two years, but before and after that, I've been the oddball who can't speak Spanish all that well, doesn't listen to Bachata because it was never on the radio, doesn't like dumplings & salt fish, or anything that is related to being Caribbean or more specifically, Dominican. The most I've been exposed to is the food and of course people in my neighborhood. I feel that I was deprived because my parents believed that the more "Americanized" I was, the better chance I had at "The American Dream," or a better chance of having a good life. Which of course I've learned isn't true, I'm still black and I'm still from the 'hood, so those are all factors. I find it interesting being that they'll claim to be proud Dominicans while looking down at their own culture, as if being an American makes one more civilized.
+Jessica Jay Aww no problem. thanks for sharing your story with me too cuss I can definitely relate!!! I've haven't been directly told that I wasn't really Haitian because I don't speak the language, but it HAS BEEN IMPLIED and I have felt that way many times. People always asked me why I don't speak Creole or French and I was always ashamed of that like they were questioning my Haitian-ness. And I always say defensively "well, I'm half Haitian". But you know what my mom is like you are not half Haitian, like what does that even mean? Jessica you and I are just FULL of two beautiful and rich cultures. We got the best of both worlds!!!
+Karlene Israel I feel you, I know people like that too. It must be hard for you. Perhaps it isn't so much about your parents looking down at their own culture but instead deciding to fully being and committing to the experience that being an American is. Some people feel like they just have to choose one or the other because it's simpler. Like growing up, I felt like I had to cater to both sides of my heritage while being the traditional "African-American" (such as listening to hip hop). I don't consider myself "African-American" btw. I do feel a bit different from African-Americans and don't understand some of their ways. Even so, it's an opportunity because if you want to you can learn about your culture in an more unbiased way. Your first comment the one that interested me was about the injustices between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, and being annoyed about the older generations ideas about the Trujillo era. You see it for what it is and you are clearly WOKE about what's going on. That's an asset.
I'm African American, educated, had chores, was punished when I did wrong... .. . My daughter has chores, gets amazing grades... I never knew we were viewed like that. Granted, this is the view of one, but it was interesting.
4 years later and as an African American and Haitian woman I'm feeling both sides (Though I think it was off about the discipline thing.) My behind got beat and had to get up and clean on both sides🤣. I got made fun of for being African American by Haitians and made fun of for being Haitian by African Americans. I could NOT win. I was told I couldn't celebrate or take pride in my Haitian side nor my African American side.
Lots of West Indians and/or Africans think American black people don't exist. I get interrogated by people asking "where are you from?". I say I'm from here, I'm American, and they don't accept that as an answer, like there is no such thing. We have always been in the United States, since colonial times - just as long as you all have been in Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad etc. We are the native black people in this country
Proudly West-Indian no they are not aware of that. Y'all Caribbean claiming ur island brought by ur opressor lmao do y'all know where y'all originated from before the island ?
Natalie didn't even grow up with African American friends and didn't even know they existed until colledge...so how come she thinks she knows so much about us? Half of what she said was kinda wrong :(
I'm Haitian Canadian, along with English I also speak Creole and French. I find that Haitians i Canada and Haitians in the U.S are very different. It's so weird that American Haitians don't speak French although I understand why it's still strange.
Jouelzy, please check out Paule Marshall's books. She has written a lot about African American and Caribbean interaction in pre war WW2 Brooklyn. A simple Google search would come up with a few books and NYT article. If it's possible, you should see if you can arrange an interview with her. She's still alive!!!
I loved this video. I'm a Midwestern Black American as both of my parents folks' moved here from the south. I was talking to my mom about the perceptions among Black-Americans, Africans and West Africans and we both came to the conclusion that Africans and West African probably do have better work ethic and academic expectations. A lot of black doctors and Ivy League students in America tend to be Nigerian, etc., you know? Now, I certainly don't think Africans/West Indian Black folk are better because of this but I do think we have to ask ourselves why the expectations/acts of discipline *seem* to differ. I hope I don't sound ignorant or like I'm making a terrible generalization. After all, I know plenty of high-achieving Black Americans, but our brother and sisters who have parents from other parts of the diaspora *seem* to be doing better, at least on paper. Anybody have thoughts on why? I think any thoughtful response would have to be very deep and complex...
A big part of it is that you're comparing an entire group (Blk Americans) to a select(?) group (Africans/West Indians). There are shiftless bums in all communities, but African/Caribbean ones are a lot less likely to get granted green cards to showcase that stateside.
+michelleatdawn No African and West Indian are not better but I think the environment and they've lived makes a difference. African Americans are in an oppressive system were for generation they are told that b/c of their skin they are somehow less. I think that has the ability to break a person's spirit and can get passed down generation after generation. Families don't just pass on wealth but mindsets and social capital. Africans and West Indies can draw on a rich history to combat negativity. Whereas in America the African American extensive and beautiful history is narrowed downed into a month and not celebrated on a constant basis. African Americans achievements are brushed off, seen as an exception, or appropriated by others. I think also being immigrates also plays a large role.
+michelleatdawn Their better work ethic. That's bullshit. They come from societies where they have little opportunities. They have to work hard because they don't want to go back. They also have their relatives who are depending on them financially. There is always a hand out. These guys have no choice. They are the lucky ones to escape. They provide the entry into this countries for their other relatives. Honey it's a necessity. It's pressure to survive so they want have to go back.
+Chalky White work hard at what complain all the damn time .. or selling petty drugs ..robbing people ..going to jail ..what hard work are u talking about ..
+Chalky White also I will remember how much u people have achieved the next time I drive thru one of those shit hole ghettos you people call home in one of the richest countries in the world ..I will remember how much y'all own the next time I try to find a black American owned business in y'all so-called black community ..I will remember how proud you people carry yourself the next time I hear one of you fools scream out world star to video tape one or a pack of you fools beating up another one of you fools ..oh by the way for another 2 yr in a row another Nigerian child has scored a perfect score on the SATs also she has been accepted to ever Ivy League College in the country on a full academic scholarship ..in the mid west the Somali students are breaking all academic records in high school and college ..
This is an interesting conversation. As a first generation American of Jamaican born-and-raised parents (& grandparents who immigrated to Jamaica from other countries), I identify very much so to your friend, Jouelzy. Actually growing up, we pretty much had the same experience (except I've traveled back a fair amount of times - now it is seemingly more dangerous unless you're staying in certain places). In my Long Island NY community, everyone was an immigrant. I cannot outright identify who the African Americans were because it was so few. All the peers I came across were first generation American or immigrated. I identify with black as my race, but proudly state my ethnicity as well. It is something we have grown up with & accustomed to. Having to constantly circle African American on a standardized test, after being raised to know my bloodline and family tree, was disheartening. Not in a less than way, like we're better. But more of a we exist, we have cultural differences, why can't we be acknowledged? kind of way. I think for a lot of Caribbean Americans, we are under pressure to be black, just black, and not say anything more otherwise we'd just appear boastful. As if me identifying with my specific ethnicity is demeaning to black culture. Yes, we are black. We will always be black. But we can identify as other things and that will not take anything away from those movements specifically trying to uplift Black America. I don't forget that I'm American, too. But in general, it is pretty difficult to state a claim/connection to a country whose history and present day issues make your stomach turn. A country who you know would never love you back in this lifetime. That's where the lack of claim comes from. But there is no shortage of knowing.
My advice to People that are scare to visit HAITI, it is the mainstream media hypes, it is not perfect by any means, but if you visit the country, don't go to Port au Prince, it is a not a tourist welcoming place, but go to the peaceful lovely country side, please do your research before you go to any places in the world...
I appreciate your friend being honest about how many Caribbean feel. My best friend who is Antiguan said same thing was taught to her by her family that they were some how better...But we are BEST FRIENDS and I'm Black American its very interesting dynamic.I also have a friend who we GREW UP she was Dominican a few years later she now calls herself Puerto Rican We had a huge fight about this because I met her family and grandparents who raised her and they said they were Dominicans Flag on display and all and she is now raising her daughter as a Puerto Rican
![African & African Americans [A Hesitant Convo w/ Evelyn From the Internets] | Jouelzy](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/7kiqA3xysz8/mqdefault.jpg)
![African & African Americans [A Hesitant Convo w/ Evelyn From the Internets] | Jouelzy](/img/tr.png)
I'm Caribbean Canadian (my parents are Jamaican and Grenadian to be specific) and I have the MOST respect for Haitians because they gained independence and it's unfortunate that propaganda was spread about them and that they are still trying to recover because of France. It's crazy to see the difference between Dominican Republic and Haiti
+Chenai David Girl I agree. Random but can you explain to me the Caribbean Canadian culture? This is kinda new concept for me to be honest. I am Caribbean-American so we are kinda ignorant to the unique histories of other countries. I only picked up on it watching Latoya's Life and NaturalNeiicey's vlogs. Btw lemme know if this question is too vague?
Exactly Haiti is a revolutionary country that set the blueprint for African independence in America. Sak Pasè!
+Dani X its hard to explain but I don't feel that it would be too different from the Caribbean- American culture to be honest though but I guess I can't compare it because I don't really know any Caribbean-American people other than a few cousins and they are basically the same as my siblings and I. I think that maybe Caribbean-Canadians embrace their Caribbean background a little more in the sense that a lot of us speak patios on a daily basis mixed in with regular English, a lot of our slang is Jamaican patois however, all of this is from my Toronto perspective. It also depends on your parents and how much they embrace their roots, how long they've been here and how old they were when they moved. If you're interested I have a channel too but yeah I hope that answered your question
+Nicole Roach Haiti helped the slaves inlouisiana gain their independence and that's why Louisiana has creole influence. Haiti helped Venezuela gain its independence that's why Venezuela has some of the colors of the Haitian flag on their flag as a salute and appreciation for them. Haiti helped Jamaica etc...they were the pioneers of freedom.
+Gerv “Gervynyc” san I never knew all that history but yeah 100% I have the most respect for Haitians and France should honestly pay them back it's really all ridiculous. I saw a side by side comparison of Dominican Republic and Haiti, it's unbelievable
I really love these types of videos because I feel like black people as a whole are ignorant to each other's experiences and really opens up for a conversation past the ones we've had before. Thanks Jouelzy
I agree, unfortunately though, not every conversation about this topic goes this well, but I wish it could.
No different with white people look on europe history for example. Even up to this day like in eastern europe
black is american. if you know america you know what buy because youre racist you see American as white.
A person born and raised in the Caribbean and a person who is born in America to Caribbean parents have two completely different life experiences I feel.
VI Lipstick Junkie nah growing up in a Caribbean American community and Black American is 2 diff things you wouldn't understand
Hahs how abt having a afro Caribbean parent nd a afro american part
duron bryant Facts!
Your experience is only different from an African American in terms of geological location. But hear this. Blacks in America that are defendants of slaves and alll black west indians or Caribbeans as you call them. Are all Hebrew Israelites. Just like Latinos and native American Indians are Hebrew Israelites.
Not completely different but yes different.
I loved this video.
I'm an African American who grew up in Flatbush Brooklyn. To say that my ethnicity was questioned on a weekly basis is an understatement. The majority of black people in my HS were Caribbean and I lived in a predominately Haitian area of Flatbush. I knew who I was and was proud of my being American, so when people asked where I was from, I said "Here"...where your parents from, "here" and when I eventually told them I was American, they were always shocked and (sometimes annoyed) like the never had seen an African American in their life.
I understand having cultural and ethnic differences in the black community, but the bottom line is our ancestors were brought from Africa and dropped here, dropped there and dropped over there and in the end, we're still black to white folks. That's all.
I find it interesting to hear what I've known for a while... that some of them, think that they're 'better' than AA's. If they want to believe that, fine, but it goes hand in hand with the way blacks want to be divisive with one another. From #teamlightskinned to #teamdarkskinned ...all that bullshit. How about #TEAMBLACK #PROBLACK
+lsweetberriesl Random but did you go to Erasmus?
+Dani X lol Erasmus no comment I'm from Queens but know about Erasmus lol
+lsweetberriesl chile, im an African American from boston and i know the struggle too. I'm asked my ethnicity ALL THE TIME!!!!! The worst is having someone tell me im not african american. lol. We (boston) have a huge variety of Black ppl here and it seems like all the african americans from boston moved to atlanta! lmfao. but my brother says this quote that i use to all the time "the only real difference between americans and carribeans is a boat stop". of course our cultures are different but all derive from african and european background. we are all mixed down with african, european, asian/native. no one is better than the other. we are all just ppl. plus, my mom def got on my ass about chores, punishment, or whatever. my mom wasnt a hitter (for the most part) but i would be grounded for months!!!! i would rather take the beating! lmfao.
+Lani Roberts I know the difference but thank you for educating others. For the sake of this video, I'm grouping us 'colored folks' as black and as I said in my previous comment, no none (a.k.a white folk) will know the difference Caribbean-American and African-American.
+Gerv “Gervynyc” san lol ok just wondering :)
Her hair 😍
The Zoe Pound, like other gangs, was created in response to the mistreatment of Haitians. In Miami, there was a lot of beef between the African-Americans and Haitian community. Fighting back and slowly but surely gaining the "respect" of the African-American community instilled a since of pride in Haitian-Americans. Despite the negative connotation associated with the term Zoe, within the Haitian community, when I tell people I'm a Zoe, its sends the message "Don't mess with me. I am Haitian and proud".
As a first generation American, I struggled with my identity, I grew up in Little Haiti and only considered myself to be Haitian. I didn't realize I was "black" until someone called me out on it. At the time, I didn't consider myself black because every year during Black History Month, nothing was taught about my history, which did not start in this country. My mother explained to me that being black had nothing to do with my culture or history, but with race. She taught me without the struggles of African-Americans we would not be able to enjoy the liberty we do now. Growing up I did believe I was better than African-Americans. This was something implied and preached throughout the community. At all costs, it was parents duty to keep their children from being "Americanized" (read: African-Americanized because there was nothing wrong with being white washed). Through research and learning, I discovered, I am just culturally different and owe a lot gratitude to the African-Americans who sacrificed themselves and continue to do so, because, again, without them, I could not be here to enjoy the freedom I have today.
Pardon me if I think you are closer to a 🦝 than a hatian revolutionary. You watch too many movies.
Hatians been dealing drugs since the 90s....what African American made them do that? P.S. you aint Dessoline ... We know now that Hatians PAID REPARATIONS TO FRANCE UNTIL 1980S after getting your leaders killed.
It is interesting how black culturals across the country have different views on African Americans or black culture in general. When I was growing up in the 757 in VA I had friends that were African, mixed, African American, carribean backgrounds, and I knew we had cultural differences but I always just viewed us as black. never thought i was better and they never thought they were better. we were all in the same boat....growing up in similar neighborhoods, family dynamics, etc. I didn't have dealings with other black cultures distinctively differentiating themselves until maybe college. But then again maybe its cuz Im a black woman born in Oregon raised in VA. My life, upbringing and perspective is just different.
+Shantia Allen I didn't experience the differentiating from those who grew up in the States, until I got to Houston. lol
Lol yeah i heard it's different out there
+Shantia Allen Yea i agree you when she said she thought they were better based off of upbringing i was thinking why??? My parents discipline me, gave me chores and if i didn't them their were consequences hell i'm 21 and still got chores lol but I am living for free so that's the least I can do.
+Ronnie Adore i think perception of black cultural is just different depending on where you go. Where I'm from there's not alot of diversity when it comes to black cultural. I wasn't introduced to other black cultures until college. As far as upbringing I just believe that is just a case by case basis because my momma didn't play no games lol
Shantia Allen Yea your absolutely right, it definitely depends on the parents. Same because where I'm from their isnt noticeably a display of black culture, honestly lately I'm confused about my own culture I don't even know exactly what it is and often feel like I don't have a culture compared to others. I know we do have a culture but it's not celebrated or made known, not in my househould or the area that I live in.
I am Jamaican (my father) and Haitian (my mother). I am West Indian. I am a Black woman. I am Caribbean. I am proud of my culture . I never ate African American (soul food) until I went to undergrad at FAMU.
+Prissy WAH GWAN AND SAK PASSE MA SOEUR
That's so cool!
My dad is Haitian and my mom is Jamaican. I have never had soul food before but it's on the list.
+Sidney Jean Hey!!!! yea. their cuisine is totally different than ours. I definitely feel our food (well ALL island food) is way better and tastier than African American food.
+Dani X Hello Island massive!!
+Prissy Your opinion. I've had both. And as a Black American I like soul food better.
Haitians had pride because of it's history. People of Harlem had pride because of it's history. The common theme is black people were doing well at one time and allowed outside forces to derail, destroy and divide us. We need to continue to educate ourselves daily on why we should be proud of being black. I often ask myself why is it so easy for us turn against each other? I like to think as smart brown people we can see pass the lies and manipulation.
I don't know what she's talking about as of black children don't get whipped or don't have to do chores. I swear I felt like that was the purpose of having children at one point since my siblings and I did ALL of them. It amazes me how ignorance leads to assumptions like that.
I have always had immense respect for Haiti ever since I was a kid and studied Caribbean History. Haiti lit the flame that gave ALL of us more leverage for freedom.
🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯🎯
I am Haitian descent. I was born and raised in Canada and now have lived in the U.S for over 20yrs. I identify as Haitian Canadian. My American born children identify as Haitian-American. Most Caribbean folks do not identify as African-American because that term negates where we our family originates from.
+Gerv “Gervynyc” san Girl Preach!!!! :)
You originate from Africa. You all got off the boat about 80 years before us. We are just going back to the source. I am glad we are there.
+PatsBooks no one is denying Africa. However I will not deny my Haitian roots.
+PatsBooks so true but some are in denial.
I don't consider you to be AA. I see you as descendents of enslaved Africans that were dumped on the various islands. I know y'all are Africans. Y'all just got off the boat about 80 years before the mainland, and the first was came from the islands. They did not come directly from Africa initially.
I consider myself African because I am a descendent of Africans that were dumped on the mainland and an America because who I am is shaped by our American mainland sojourn here over the last 40o years.
I get it. If I had to go and live somewhere else to survive or if I went to one of the islands to live, Jamaica for example, I would never consider myself a Jamaican. However, I know that I'm an Africans, and I encourage my direct family, the AA community, to travel all over the African continent. Lets reconnect and go back to the source. We are the original man and woman baby.
I am very much familiar with the divide and conquer strategy of white supremacy. The whites come from different ethnic groups, however, they ban together under white supremacy and rule 90 percent of the rest of us. In case you don't know, white males are only 5 percent of the world's population, with their women they are 10%. Damn it how can African men the world over allow this?
"I'm not sure where American culture ends or begins" This is how I have felt all of my life. And that mention of derision is real. Because I remember growing up, I never though Haitians were Caribbean because they spoke a different language than we did. Similar to the way that we never considered Puerto Ricans, Cubans, and Dominicans to be Caribbean. I am happy that we got the Haitian American perspective because it is often overlooked.
Avonelle Davis we
As if everyone in the Caribbean speaks one language!🙄
Your friend need to come down south. We whoop our kids down here AND they have chores. By the way, I'm from Shreveport, La. And I'm a PROUD African American.
✊🏾 yes, child the rod was not spared.
+Shaterria Turner true
+lilallnatural1 Black folk definitely tend to be more strict than white folks, but I've found that some white folks can be very strict, too. Much of my childhood was spent in a predominately white upper-middle income suburb, but after living in a mostly white low-income/working class area temporarily a couple years ago, I started to observe more strict white parents.
Stereotypical "trailer park" white women be sounding like some black mamas up in these stores, y'all. 😂
LOL about the "TPT"
+Shaterria Turner Right!!! My people from New Orleans.. she probably never been any where.
I'm Caribbean American my mom is from Barbados and my dad is from Brooklyn. I was born in Brooklyn and living there I was surrounded by Jamaicans, Haitians, Africans and other different cultures. It's extremely different growing up in a Caribbean household compared to an American household. The Caribbean culture is so beautiful and I wish more people knew that.
+Newyork8608 What's so beautiful about it? Elaborate.
This was an excellent conversation! As a Jamaican-American I can relate. I would love to see a part 2 video, and perhaps with other Caribbean-Americans as well.
***** You stalking me ;) ? Lol j/k I see we've got some things in common.
rahzi harris I'm aware that Jamaica is not in America. I was born here but my family is from Jamaica. I embrace my Jamaican roots hence why I referred myself as a Jamaican-American (same concept like the young lady in this vid who comes from a Haitian background).
rahzi harris Jamaica is NOT in Central America. It is in the West Indies/Caribbean. I've traveled to both the Caribbean and Central America....And let's try spreading positive vibes instead of negative.
+redbar.. Are you dumb lol?
+redbar.. And you are a prime example as to why so many first generation Caribbean American children have so many issues with themselves. You can't get acceptance from Americans nor people at home. Sad.
I'm a proud southern American who has gone to the west Indian day parade in Brooklyn on eastern parkway several years in a row and waved my huge American flag with boastful pride! I've always loved the fact that I am a southern American (I'm from Florida and lived in the Bronx from 2004-2015) and have never hid my American Heritage. I have long friendships with west Indians, Africans, Caucasians, Latinos and African Americans as well and have gotten along with everyone. I think that once we all understand that were all human beings where you're from doesn't really matter because at our core we are a lot alike in many ways. Thanks for yet another great video!!!! I love all your posts.
Can't get my eyes off her hair. love love love it. just gorgeous. enjoyed the video. ghanaian here showing some love.
I'm African American and my boyfriend is Haitian and he and his family truly believe that they are "better" than African Americans however, love everything about our culture and don't realize how Americanized they actually are. But as soon as they see a black person fighting on world star that's that "American stuff" but they can yell cuss fight all they want and it's reasonable because they're Haitian. 😒 Like I really don't get why everyone wants to pick and choose when they want to relate to us, it's cute when we're trending on Twitter empowering ourselves then they want to join and that's fine but let one negative thing happen with one AA then they want to separate and point fingers like why can't we all unite as people of African decent and stop putting each other down.
Ashanti Thinks Trust, If they showed half of the shit that goes down in their countries on World Star they would shut down the internet lol
Tony Jackson Trump about to cut section 8 and food stamps, we going to have a lot more African Americans homeless, lots of them going stand in front of them liquor stores begging Haitians for a dollar. I'm a spit on they faces and give them an 1804 Haitian ass whooping
1stindependent freeblack Another internet tough guy 🙄 Haitians can't fight .Probably get layed out with an uppercut. Lol
Tony Jackson U wanna meet up
1stindependent freeblack Nobody scared of you lol
I understand her aggravation with the "you do voodoo?" b.s. I'm from Louisiana and outsiders ask that all the time. I grew up bilingual (we take French starting in kindergarten & my grandma spoke it). Southeast Louisiana is jam packed with Haitian influence. Great video!
+Genese Knox Is it really Haitian influence or more that when you take West African slaves who are dominated by the French, the cultural mix will yield from similar results regardless of exact location? Maybe the influence is more Fulani or Yoruba then exactly Haitian?
There is definitely a very very deep Haitian-Louisiana historical connection
A lot of Haitians left their home to help the US get their independence. Most of them settled in Louisiana.
+Jouelzy a little of both. I agree with you about the roots of it all being more of a west African influence. However, after all the (forced) mixing/mingling I do think Haitians have their own (hybrid) culture. New Orleans celebrates many Haitian people. New Orleans wouldn't be New Orleans without them. In the early 1800's, New Orleans used to be over 60% Haitian (free people).
+fran.chesca lol. Where did you get this from? So you saying Black Haitians came to America to fight for independence (so your saying the revolution war) and settled in the South? I'm not following.
Thank you @Jouelzy for your conversations that provide lots of useful information.
I was born and raised in Africa (Uganda) and we always loved African Americans. When the movie Roots was visiting people's living rooms via bootlegged video tapes, we could not believe the horror. It had been downplayed in our history books. I got a very watered down version and was RUDELY awakened.
It is so interesting to find out that there are other "cultural" wars (Hatians do this, Jamaicans are like that etc) going on between groups of black people.
I think that the rumors and stories are handed to us because people wish to DIVIDE us.
I'm not sure about other places, but in Kampala, we loved African Americans. We tried talking like you, dancing, singing, dressing... we felt that you were just extensions of us living in a different place. Of course there was no context, but that has been the beauty in finding out.
I've been to a family reunion of a large African American family in St. Louis. It was nothing like I've ever experienced! I was grateful for the way the embraced me and made fun of my accent.
Let's not buy into the nonsense that has been passed down to us, the stuff that makes sure we're always kept divided. We're all interesting and have something to offer, something to share that provides an amazing glimpse into what Africans can become. Look how we've thrived in the face of insurmountable odds. Slavery, colonialism, oppression, interference in our governance, institutionalized racism. Look at us, wherever we are in the World.
We are amazing. Let's celebrate that and forget the divisiveness. :D
I'm trying to figure out why people from the West Indies or Africa think black Americans don't beat their children !???! My mom tore me up lol! Like ...chille the switch 😩😩😩 extension cord 😩😭 the belt , the shoe !! Make up back !! Lawdddd . Black momma's don't play period ! No don't care where you're from as a black person
Amber Polk Truth is they think we all the same and act as if all African American lives in our house lol Also thinks our parents birth the same children. They don't get that we all are not raises the same but have the same nationalities. Also they are trying to act like there are no bad Africans and Caribbean people which is not true. I see it on videos all the time. I was watching this Jamaican guy CZcams channel and he was talking about Jamaican women needs to stop twerking, having babies out of wedlock, and stop killing each other. The funny thing is they are talking about us on what's going on in their country and not what's going on in their's which it don't make any since! They act like we are the only people that have people in our country that act like a fool and lives the wrong life but the truth is there are bad and good people all over the world. The ones who is acting in this matter are lost souls and needs help spiritually and mentally. What we need to do as people of color is to love, respect, and unify with each other.
Amber Polk They only have limited exposure to other people, some choose to believe in the negative narrative of Black Americans because it makes them feel better.
Amber Polk because they're ignorant!!!
She is crazy as hell lol
That's part of the reason why Black Men get into relationships with White Women.
Also Haitians are so proud to be the first free country from slavery since 1804, we kinda want to honor our ancestors by adding that we are Haitians first.
Nonso Okonkwo and proof of that?
The Caribbean experience in Canada is different because of the large influx of Caribbean and African immigrants in the 50's, 60's and 70's. If someone here (in Canada) asks a black person where they are from they are referring to their nationality or their parents nationality. I have a friend that is Canadian black, (which is rare depending on the Province you live in) when she is asked about her background and replies Canadian, she'll be asked the question again until she explains that her parents are from Nova Scotia which is a Province that has a large black Canadian population. However when I travel to other countries and I'm asked where I'm from I say Canada.
+Bagewr Are you from Ontario? I've run into a similar experience.
+ragemonster Yes I live in Ontario just outside of Toronto. Are you Caribbean Canadian?
Bagewr Yes. Same, live in the GTA region, grew up in Toronto.
It feels like most Canadians do not know the story of Black Nova Scotians or Black Canadians of African-American descent.
+fran.chesca you are probably right. When I was growing up there was no mention of Canadian Black history in school. It wasn't until grade school that I met my friend a "real" Canadian black person and even then when I first met her she told me she was Caribbean at first LOL. I think this relates to the mob mentality mentioned in the video. Where I grew up the majority of Black people were Caribbean so if you weren't then you were kind of like an outsider. In the US the majority of Blacks are American. Now that we have Black History Month I'm sure more kids are aware of Canadian black culture.
Very interesting conversation. I do think there is a tendency for African Americans (speaking for myself and personal experiences) to be less prideful about their ethnicity bc we've been taught and treated as though we're not true Americans for centuries and I can honestly say I've never really identified with the idea of being American. I think such a tragic and violent history here makes us weary to claim it. As well I think people thinking it doesn't sound as cool to say you're from the West Indians/Carribean goes back to the fetishization around "exotic" people or the exotic nature of indigenous black bodies who lead these seemingly other worldly lives.
Speak for yourself
I agree💯
@Whitney B.
Tell your friend she can visit Haiti! I was born in the US and my parents are Haitian. I've visited Haiti almost every summer since I was a baby and I am 23 years old. I meet so many Haitian Americans that do not visit Haiti because they think it's not safe and they're missing out on greatness!
Yes, thank you! Born and raised in America, but been to Haiti twice. I get a strong sense of Haitian Pride whenever I go there. I love my people!
+Positively Doana I wonder if her parents kept her away from Haiti because they were political. I have a friend whose father was killed when he went back. He had been involved in community organizing before he left.
+Connie Payne Yes. That can be the case for some.
+Punta Kinte FULL
nehemie1255 What are the repercussions of that?
Just know we all come from Africa... But here's the thing, African Americans were almost stripped completely of African teaching and cultures; where as Caribbean islanders and Southern American where able to hold on to majority of the African culture... Look at the Carnivals in the tropical regions... Black Americans don't have African heritage carnivals.. But black Americans were still able to mold America because of our gene pool that never left us (music, dance, singing, etc.)
lol african heritage carnivals ? carnival came from the catholics and africans put their twist to it .. not necissary african heritage
+Joh-Van James The USA commonly sent a lot of Afro-Americans to the Caribbean 1.) Banishment 2.) Domestic trade. That is why you see North American Indian Headdress in Carnival.
+Joh-Van James Yea for example the governor of the South Carolina Colony owned Colonies in Barbados, Jamaica, & Trinidad (1600s) he sent a lot of people there. Domestic trade is the most under discussed part of our history. Self-Study on our people in the west is very inadequate.. They keep trying to make it seem like there wasnt that many people in North America but they were sending people to Europe, Canada, and West Indies. They sent more people to Europe than the US which today would be Afro-American. There are also Afro-American creole groups on the island of Hispaniola that fled there during the 1800s as well as in Liverpool. I forget there names. They sent A LOT of people to Africa(1700s-1800 & Prior). Brazilians went to Togo, Ghana, Nigeria, Angola, Benin. Afro-Americans Nigeria, Sierra Leon, Liberia, Senegal. Cubans also went to Nigeria.
I was born in America, but my parents are from Trinidad. I didn't grow up in an area with many West Indians. I basically grew up in a very white area. There were two African American families who helped my mom babysit me growing up. I identify as "West Indian" or "Afro Caribbean", but I feel closer to African Americans than the woman in this video.
I have cousins who feel the same as you do. Their parents are from Trinidad but they were born in the US and identify more as African American. I guess it really depends on where you grew up in the US.
i think its because you live in america
+5chocolatedragon You can tell, although she was born in the US, she has a distinctive non African-American accent. You can tell she had to learn english in school, not a home.
Although he skin is black, she probably has more in common with the average mexican american or any other hyphenated-american from a non-english speaking background. It is what it is, she gets treated as an African American until the moment she opens her mouth, then people's demeanor change whether they know it or not.
+beenn15 I don't think you meant to reply to me. Your content has nothing to do with what I said.
5chocolatedragon
I'm British Trinidadian by birth but I grew up in America and my mother is African American. I can totally relate to what she was saying. Arriving in America as a five year old I had a true cultural shock. I was not used to African Americans and we moved to the south of America. I grew up in ATL, GA; B'ham, AL; then we moved to TX. My mother is from Mississippi. So I had a true awakening of the experience of being in the "Dirty South" But I still grew up in a British Caribbean home. The food we ate like Salt fish and Bake, Baked beans and toast, Cornbeef and Cabbage. Provision, Porridge and Roti, and yet we would still have a few sprinkle of African American in my meals, Collard Greens, Grits, Fried Chicken.
There is a difference culturally of how we grow up and the sounds, smells and food that we eat and it is interesting to see how we express our pride in who we are and how we identify culturally. I'm a proud black woman and I'm a proud British Trinidadian woman.
Black Americans be proud! Dismiss anyone from the diaspora that thinks differently of you and your people. You have a rich proud culture. Your people are educated, ingenious, spiritual, resilient and have paved the way for the liberties that many immigrants take advantage of now. Arm yourself with knowledge of your history and stand tall.
Okay, so I'm born and raised in New Orleans and I get that voodoo comment all the time when I travel outside of Louisiana...it is annoying because I've never practiced that, lol. However I'm not Haitian, I'm Black or African American and I didn't interact with many Caribbean or African black people until I went to FAMU. New Orleans is majority black American, with heavy creole influence, but we don't have a big group of Caribbean people here. Just funny how I was the opposite of being exposed to other black people.
Honorelle Henry girl I’m from Baton Rouge I know actually where you are coming from ! People get us confused with being Haitian but I literally had not met a Haitian until I moved to Florida!! I honestly didn’t even know they existed until I was 12 ! I honestly met my first Caribbean black as a teenager
Honorelle nothing is wrong with voodoo
The reason i think Haiti gets overlooked for one is because they are french speaking unlike other Caribbean countrys they can relate more toward each other because they all speak english dialect...therefore it is definietly easier for a trini to understand a Jamaican then a Haitian understanding a trini..
Im half Sierra Leonian, half Bajan. I find these conversations fascinating. I'd like to find out more about African Americans and their culture.
proud Vincentian living in Brooklyn since my late teens. since I've came here I've come to learn that black Americans look down on islands. when I have conversations with ppl often times their reaction is " wow you know that " like we have tv's, the internet and we go to school it's very annoying unlike most we in the Caribbean are taught world history and geography along with regional and local.
+hottie2121
Western predominantly white countries tend to fail in teaching global history well.
love your comment I'm a very very proud Vincy and I hate when ppl speak bad about any Caribbean island because I'm a West Indian by birth , like the video say we are divided by water but still have many things in common , I personally don't speak bad about African American but I hear them speak bad about us .
amen sister. when I can here in 2015 a guy thought we live under palm trees on the beach. he was surprised how knowledgeable I was about history, geography and current events.
That side eye when she said I thought we were better LMAO. I made the exact same face when I heard it. She was right about the slight change in your accent though. I think that's a sign of being respectful and wanting to pronounce words from other cultures properly and I appreciate it. You pronounce floors (flaws) like you were born and raised in Brooklyn. I love it. For a West Indian who's not Haitian I will say the prejudice of Haitians in my culture was based more on colorism and phenotype. Rather than voodoo. Tbh when I first clicked on the video I assumed your friend was Trini or Grenadian. Growing up I was taught Haitians look a certain way. Which is nonsense but it's what I grew up hearing. There is also and assumption that Haitians have a lack of diversity because they never received indentured Indians. It wasn't until I met a very light Haitian girl in high school that I realized they aren't all very dark. I learned there are Lebanese and Syrian Haitians. That the ruling class is mostly mixed creoles like you said. Also Haitians don't assimilate as fast as the rest of us. I felt like their parents weren't into buying fancy school clothes. So in school they dressed different and stood out. Which caused a lot of teasing.
My family is from Trinidad and I am from East Flatbush, Brooklyn. I grew up around mostly West Indians but I never felt better than African Americans. Neither did most of my friends who were mostly Haitian or Jamaican. There were some in my school or neighborhood who felt that way but it wasn't very common to my knowledge. I do remember Haitians being harassed so much that some pretended to not be Haitian. Even I struggled with my identity as a teen because back in the 90s being Trini wasn't seen as cool it was all about being Jamaican. I had Jamaican friends but they tended to be cliquish and looked down on other West Indians. The only flak I ever received about my ethnicity came from them. Now that I am older I have such an appreciation for the African diaspora. We all have cultures that we should be proud of and should be celebrated but at the end of the day we are all black people.
+Nope Pei LOL I had a similar experience trying to be friends with Trinis. i would have been your friend. i admit my people are boassy and our countries are competitive with each other. I am in Canada and we have a Carnival. Often some people used to complain that reggae is not a part of Carnival, so no Jamaica float. Course we said its because our float is popular but it still hurt. i don't even want to hear reggae during Carnival but i want to be represented. We fight about stupid things but we still love each other. yes we are all black people with the same damn struggles.
Based on past history it is believed by many Jamaicans that Trinidadians hate us. So for us it's the other way around. But I love all Caribbean countries and I think we should stick together...
+Toni Alex I'm both so I def experienced that odd animosity sometimes but honestly, its not a huge deal anymore. I don't think anyway...but Trinidadians are the dominant Caribbean Island in Crown Heights and Jamaicans are more prominent in Flatbush. Very different cultures.
You are the only truthful comment on here
Were all my proud black Americans at. Proud to be black American.
This was interesting Sorors.... But her comment "That we were better" struck a nerve.... Lol. I am a PROUD African American black woman!... Nice video nonetheless....
KBo Essentials I feel you...that’s just ignorant of her, she lives under the freedom that we brought into question.
I feel u too. I'm annoyed by her. She seems arrogant and contiously ignorant to me. I'm a Proud Black American and She should be thanking us for her existence in the US because her and her parents are not trying to go back to Haiti and leave this cushy lifestyle that our ANCESTORS fought bled and died for. BLESSINGS TO U MY SISTAS
Interesting that she thinks Haitians are a little ‘better’ but they are the lowliest group of Caribbeans. They are represented in a very negative light. This girl is enjoying the freedom that my forefathers died for.
@kryk Walters first of all I'm not hating on anyone. I'm American and proud. You are generalizing about Black Americans only working low wage jobs. There are plenty of Black American Doctors and lawyers and many other professions that we choose to have. This is 2020 not 1820. In 1920 black Americans were doing pretty well too economically. There are plenty of middle class and upper class as well as wealthy Black Americans in this country. Get your facts together my luv. We are not a monolithic people. By the way...are you American??
This was interesting to me. I had a group of friends in high school and one of them was Haitian but the rest of us were African American. The Haitian friend invited us to her house but when her mom came home she said, loud enough for us to hear, "get those black girls out of my house". I never understood how she could say that and she's "black" also?
Yahya TheGreat cause ahe was an ignorant bitch but go ask a Dominican about her ass see what they would've said about her.
because black used to be synonymous with black American. For some people it still is.
What she thought 💭 she was 😂😂😂🤷🏽♀️
The Haitian one is soooo GORGEOUS! And I could listen to her speak all day.
This video just solidified what I feel and it's frustrating. I just was in a forum with doctorate students in DE. Majority were African, my friend and I African American. Why do these individuals think they are better? She said her truth,but WOW. When a Caucasian person sees you, you are perceived as what? No one is saying deny your culture, but respect those that go through the struggle and built the country you now are prospering in. Our ancestors yes, but the people whose blood runs through our body. Still at the end of it, an African American person is perceived as being at the bottom by all other cultures.
I think she was saying how she used to feel though. The irony is I've had multiple conversations where Africans imply they're better than us Caribbeans, so it's a chain if wilful ignorance and silly stereotypes.
That's not true at all maybe it's just people who migrate to the US that think like that but black americans gave the rest of us black immigrants so much pride to be black and even the idea of being black first then african then your nationality seriously I can't understand why would someone not recognize that.
I dunno if you're familiar with Brazil but they went through a similar experience as black americans and unfortunately what they achieved is not as positive as african americans
+J T I agree. Also I am sure she knows that when white sees her she's black. She only expresses HER side. At the end we are suppose to unify, unfortunately, people tend to focus more on different background without acceptance that we are different but the same
+DecadentBeautie I don't think it's necessarily about feeling superior. YOu have to remember that these folks come from a STRONG culture, especially if they're continental African. They belong to a nation (Ibo, Yoruba, Akan, Kongo, etc) , so they speak their mother tongue, which means that they have a culture and a "code of conduct" . This is why some of the more successful blacks are from the diaspora.
You have to understand that you basically have no culture, only Africanisms (and I'm not saying this to bash you, it's not your fault) . This is because you speak English as your mother tongue, which in turn means that how you view yourself and the world, is from a European perspective. This is why you have no code of conduct, allowing folks such as Kevin Gates, Stacey Dash (who I don't consider to be Black/African) , Charles Barkley to run around, saying stupid shit without being punished.
Having a culture is an intentional thing, it comes as a result of having a nationality. This is what enabled these folks : www.afrikmall.com/team.html to construct AfrikMall in Colorado. facebook.com/afrikmall/
www.afrikmall.com/
Why do you black Americans care so much about how Caucasians see you???
Random aside I forgot to mention: In one of my undergrad classes (HBCU) one of my NJ-raised, Trini classmates said she grew up feeling superior because she felt her Black American peers were disrespectful toward their elders. She said she was raised to kiss her elders upon entering a room. I thought that was interesting for so many reasons. One being that we Black Americans often laugh and discuss how white kids act toward their parents and/or talk about how black mamas don't play....
There's so much more I want to say....like how stereotypes about West Indians exist among the West Indian community. I've heard Jamaicans say some not so nice things about Trinis and vice versa.
There are layers to this sh*t!!!
Anyway, thanks for doing this video, Jouelzy. 😍
I'd notice that non-American blacks love to compare themselves to Black Americans in terms of culture, food, dance, work ethic, upbringing, education, success, wealth, morals, and values.
sexyrose93 and we have to we dont act like aa they are very loud people respect blacks from overseas more foreign blacks are more respectful and discipline and work hard no freebies try to move wsy up the lader.i have and love my ethnicity and culture
Stfu!
Jackie Roman but you immigrant blacks come here ans use thoae same freebies that you talk about using lol stop it.
Jackie Roman You wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for AA so stfu you think your better but your not
@@destiny3354 the diaspora was very influential in the civil rights movement. Especially here in NYC in the 60s. Even Malcolm x was a product of the diaspora. NYC blacks was over 60% immigrants in the 60s. It wasn't just AAs marching.
great video! my dad is Haitian and my mom is american with both Jamaican and southern roots ( from Selma from my grandmothers side ) and my grandmother's family did not hide how they felt about my grandmother having half Caribbean kids and my moother for having half Caribbean kids. As a kid, which took a huge toll on my self identity and self-esteem. But as a adult i totally except and proud to be Haitian, Jamaican and Black american. identify with all that makes me me :)
I'm half Haitian and half Trinidadian. I was born in 1981 and grew up in NY Long Island. Most of the kids I grew up with were Caribbean as well. I NEVER felt any animosity from the other Caribbean students towards me or any other Haitians. It was MUCH love. If anything I think the black American kids had negative pre-conceived notions about Haitians. Jouelzy, where did you hear there was a divide amongst the countries of the Caribbean?Growing up with a bunch of Dominicans, they were cool too. It wasn't until my adulthood when I went to D.R. that I experienced Dominicans feeling a sense of superiority over Haitians.In the end though, Haitians are a strong and proud people with a very rich culture.
+Mich Spence i heard it when I moved to Brooklyn and most of my friends where Trinidadian, Jamaican or Guyanese and they all constantly had negative things to say about Haitians, especially around jouvert & the parade. I hadn't heard anything about Haitians until I got to Brooklyn.
Gurl you are giving me life. I'm born and raised in Flatbush Brooklyn. Bajan and African American roots. I identify as Black. I grew up with the Bajan side of my family so I can honestly say they are my greatest influence. Thank you for addressing this issues among West Indians as well. Love this
As a Black woman, born & raised in Arkansas, this was a very interesting & informative conversation. Thanks for letting us be a fly on the wall.
I am a Canadian-Haitian and my dad always told me to know Haitians you have to read history books from Haiti or France because America has made a false propaganda about Haiti. Not only we were the only the FIRST BLACK COUNTRY to become independent (when it was Hispanola) we helped a lot of other island to get their freedom as well, all the way down to Brazil. Haitians couldn't get to America in time because of France conflict. Black American unfortunately had to wait 100 plus years to get their freedom. There was some Haitians who were successful to arrive in America and make their mark, (like the first mayor of Chicago) Louisiana had a lot of Haitians mixed with other culture (now called Creole)in Canada as well (since Jacques Cartier... the Canadian Columbus, you could say). There is sooo much we have to discover, history has to be re-written
I don't understand why your pride in Haitian history has to be contrasted to how long AAs waited for their freedom. Rather there has been a cultural exchange that should be used to unify us. America didn't rewrite your history any more than France and the rest of the Caribbean did. So let's assert our pride w/out talking down others.
+Jouelzy I didn't mean to offend anybody. I understand the African-American History more than the others. Being from Canada we had to learn about African-American history more than even African-Canadian History(which the truth is also hidden from history, besides the "Underground Railroad) the point made wasn't to say Haitians are better, rather as an unite black culture Haitians did try to help other blacks to get their freedom as well. United we Stand is the motto. I have never been to Haiti but I would love to, as well as Louisiana, Africa, and other countries to learn more about our history. Before anything, I am a Child of God and we are all the same. Again, Jouelzy, the information wasn't to offend, but to conversate.
+Jeanica2Natural I get it. I don't think you meant to offend, but the way you positioned read differently. I just want us to think about how we assert our pride, which we have every right to, and make the effort to respect the uniqueness of other cultures. No one is greater than, we are different.
Great video Jouelzy. I was born in Ethiopia came to America when I was 2 years old. I can speak and understand amharic(Ethiopian language). I had an accent when I was in Elementary because my parents 90% of the time spoke in Amharic. I even had to take ESOL for two years because girl I was mixing English and Amharic. I was also raised to embrace my Ethiopian culture in every way. Although I haven't went back to Ethiopia since I was 2, I still consider myself first Ethiopian then American and or African American.
Love your comment
+MsLiberianLady Thank you Liberian sister!
Fellow habesha, whats good ;)! Joulzey, you have got to do a video with a Horner.
***** Selam, I'm good. How are you? :)
+Redeait Meaza Hey, how do you feel about white people trying to claim us as arabs or mixed. It ticks me off because I know we are black and not all of us have bone straight hair. Lol ranting a little, but do you have any thoughts??
I really loved and appreciated this video! I am Haitian American as well and I think Nathalie did an amazing job explaining my experience if not most Haitian American experience in general. I realized that so many people came off ignorant about Haitians but it's not their fault because they just did not know. That's why I have no problem educating other and also being educated about everyone's culture.
This is such an informative video! I'm Indian, so I never really been exposed to the vast cultural differences within the Black community in America. It's interesting to hear about how about how Natalie dealt with being a child of immigrants and relating to her (since I moved to America when I was a small child). This is a topic I'm definitely interested in learning more about!
As a Trinidadian American I never felt any type of way towards black Americans or African Americans. My parents never spanked me but they still instilled fear in my brother in I . My parents didn't want us to be raised the way they were with the switch and whatnot.
I didn't know there was a West Indian hierarchy till I went to college in Brooklyn. Haitians were talked about in a negative way and it was pretty sad, it's just a sterotype of unattractive and poor. I've never heard of this in my life. All in all, majority of West Indians are of African decent so why can't we just all love and respect each other as black people?
Really glad you did this video. I feel like I grew up in an insulated Haitian/immigrant community/neighborhood. However, when I did interact with African-Americans I did feel as if there was tension between me and them. Even when I was younger I would eat different food, they knew my parents spoke a different language and made front of me for being Haitian..Still today I feel like there's a huge gap between AA women and me especially when I talk to them I feel like we're so different lol, I don't know how to explain it, I don't want to generalize but even though I'm American I grew up Haitian and I identify more with Caribbean people than anyone else.
I feel the same way
I can definitely relate to this! I was born in the Dutch Caribbean, lived in The Netherlands for almost all my life, and now that I'm living in the US, I am like obsessed with getting the pronunciation and syntax right. I never thought it would bother me, but like the girl says... Sometimes people correct you on certain things and it makes you feel a little weird. What is kinda nice though, is that I speak with a Caribbean accent and people think it's the coolest thing! lol Very nice video, cause all black is not the same. We all have a different background and bring something different to the table...
Haitians and most Caribbean folks do think they're better than AAs. I grew up with family members who tried to instill in me that "you're Haitian, NOT American" mentality. I've heard crap like, "I can't deal with AAs cause they're so ghetto" all my life. But I was a rebel lol. Cause where I grew up, I was introduced to a lot of individuals from different background. I didn't take to that. People who I thought were AA were just as Caribbean as me & people who I thought were Caribbean were American af. To me, black is black, and I am black.
I'm so happy to see another Haitian American representing on CZcams Thank you Natalie for sharing you experience. I think it's important for people to remember these ladies are both talking about their individual experiences. I'm Haitian American and live on the west coast. Totally different experience than Natalie living in Brooklyn. I really do like the thought provoking comments this video inspired.
I can definitely relate to a lot of what she said. I'm sure this is attributable to growing up in a place like NYC, but as she lightly touched on, pretty much before say 2002, it wasn't cool to be a foreign black. I had my 'black card' taken soooo many times for not knowing music, or never having 'soul' food, or not knowing certain words or games. I think most everyone who didn't grow up in a Black American household (and not in a place like NYC) can attest to that. I was told I wasn't black ALL the time. Then out of nowhere being foreign was cool and everybody had an aunty or great great grandma who was trini or nigerian or dominican or something.
+Kingteeuhh C (Tee) That's exactly how I feel! When I was little they'd make front of me for being Haitian saying I do voodoo or I talked too white, etc.
I can attest to this and I grew up in an AA household in Delaware. I don't think 2002 came and it was suddenly cooler to be whatever diverse Black but 2002 came and we were older + generally more mature, entering adulthood where we could assert our own personal beliefs vs. regurgitating what we heard in our households. I'm sure there's some young kid being teased for having an accent, talking funny, and not being Black enough. Our worlds have just matured out of that.
I was honesty shocked to hear her say she didn't think African American kids got real life punishment. that's one of the things American Blacks are known for is harsh punishment. must've just been her specific neighborhood. everybody knows African Americans parents don't play. they will beat you up and down the house for not doing the dishes lol.
Fond Sprme facts
I have a friend from the deep south and culturally we have a lot in common I'm from west Africa, she had strict parents, she got hit with tree branches, respect for elders etc., etc. Lol
She was using code to express that she perceived the African American kids as lacking discipline from their families.
I find it funny how she believed Haitians were better than blacks in America , yet Dominicans as well as other peoples of the Caribbean look down on Haitians. Seriously I can't stand when black people including black people from the continent of Africa play the "game of black hierarchy"
This girls background story same as mine lol Flatbush, Brooklyn, Haitian background, never really meeting African Americans?? Caribbean all around (until I went to high school which was majority white (Italian/Irish) but majority of the black students were Caribbean descent. I met my first AA there). Some of my family has talked about African Americans/Black Americans in a bad way "get up by your boot straps" respectability all around. I never thought I was better than them though, all I know is people had a lot of jokes about us. Thank you for using a Haitian! We need more voices/representation!!! People need to know more about us
As an African American female I grew up in Flatbush, Brooklyn. Many of my closest friends were from Haiti. I did see how they were treated less than other Caribbean cultures. I remembering asking my grandmother were we from a Caribbean island as well. it was always a big no. We are just black. Thank you for this video.shiur out to the 11226, 11210 area.
hello my haitian/virgo sister! Caribbean culture is definitely way different from "African American" culture. We eat different foods, listen to different music, speak different languages, and even participate in different activities.. Im also Haitian American and visiting my black friend's house as a young girl, I could totally see the difference. They played American games, ate "soul food" and listened to old school American music. I live in the states but my household was very much a Haitian household.
I would disagree as someone who is half black American half Caribbean there’s more similarities than we let on. The US is huge and each state is like its own island but when you study each especially when it comes to food there are a lot of similarities because the connection we share to Africa. Music wise we all influenced eachother and took from Africa. There are definitely differences but the similarities are also definitely there
what's her IG if she has one? I'm Haitian and I was pleasantly surprised to see Jouelzy taking a Haitian girl to talk about Caribbean Americans 😊
YES!!!! This is so true in many ways. I'm Haitian American and I'm 18 and I grew up in Clinton Hill and spent my high school years in Bed Stuy. I can honestly say that I do not know many African Americans because they do hide under the Caribbean mask. All my life I have gone to school with nothing but Haitians and other kinds of Caribbean people and watching all these flags being thrown up made me honestly confused. All my friends are some sort of Haitian whether it be half or whole. I only REALLY know one African American and even then, she speaks a lot about Jamaicans. While watching, I secretly wanted your line sister to be Haitian and I was beyond happy when she said she was. I related to her in so many ways and I realized that my situation was only slightly different than her's. My parents speak perfect english, and creole, sadly, is not used that much (unless my mom is pissed at us). And tbh cleaning (what my mom is usually ALWAYS mad about) was not done at 4 in morning. We are the normal middle class family, which just so happens to be Haitian and even then I can look at your line sister and know exactly how she felt and what she is talking about. After my mother, taking me to Haiti and making me stay at my grandmother's house there, do I really appreciate and rep my culture. I remember my cousin's and I when we were young, saying that we did not want to be Haitian. And now thinking about it, why wouldn't I want to be Haitian? WE ARE LIT!!!! Now that I am in an environment (college) where diversity is according to major and in my major (acting), blacks are already scarce, I can allow myself to really embrace my culture and show it off. Lol and it started off by me speaking creole to a room full of white kids and one African American (yay!) and I was so nervous but I enjoyed it. MAN BEING HAITIAN IS AMAZING...you know what?...scratch that....BEING BLACK IS JUST WONDERFUL!!!!!!!!!
+Jasmine Louis this is awesome :)
Interesting ! I’m from Louisiana and of never met a Caribbean until I moved to Florida!
You shaded AA so hard in that comment
No one is better than the African American culture no one
Maybe for you but not for me sorry , for me African culture is the best just like my own culture dance music food clothes , i loves everything about it , and i like African people also ,very proud black women from South America.
I'm also a 1st generation born Haitian-American. Watching this video was so interesting because my experience here in NY is fairly different than Natalie's. I grew up on Long Island and I think because I always attended predominantly white catholic schools, I was never teased for be Haitian. Actually majority of my black students at the schools I attended were Haitian(even in college). So there really wasn't room to be made fun of, therefore I was always a proud Haitian. I made my first Caribbean (non-Haitian) and African American friends in the 9th grade. Even the churches I attended were all Haitian. In regards of Dominicans for the most part I've always had good relationships with the ones I knew. Many of them called me cousin. I always went to DR salons. I also dated a few. Until recently, I feel most of the friction was amongst the older generations. Also unlike Natalie, I've been to Haiti several times and have loved every single trip. I know first hand that all the stereotypes about our island being unsafe, poor, etc aren't all true. There so many beautiful wonderful places that the media here never show. I hate NY beaches bc I'm used to the beautiful beaches over there. Lastly the thing I hate the most are the voudoo stereotypes, especially when it comes from other Caribbean people. One of my Trinidadian exs was warned by his father to be careful bc I'm Haitian and "They do voudoo". Yet, my ex bfs aunt practiced the Obia I believe, which is the exact same thing. None of my family messes with that stuff. Every island has their version of voodoo that's covered up by a different name but Haiti gets the bad wrap.
SongBirdC, you might want to educate yourself about the Haitian Vaudou religion and its role in Haiti's glorious revolution. Accepting the white man's denigration of Afro influenced religions as satanic will hold you back intellectually.
I honestly really hate this convo. I’m Jamaican-American & it bothers me how she said “I’m better. I’m different.” Eventhough she explained it it’s still aggravating. It’s not AAs fault there is no solid culture. And all Caribbean’s aren’t fully into their studies. Furthermore, I’ve ran into more colorist Caribbean’s than AAs which is mind-boggling. The initial difference between us is a Damn. Boat Stop. Period. Any other differences pass that are a result of WHERE we were dropped off at. Good God. I’m sure the ancient colonizers are laughing in their graves looking at how we STILL cannot get it together and still can’t see that we’re all the same🙃
Thank you 🙏🏾 ♥️♥️♥️
AA and Carribbean people really dont know where they came from if they researched their origins most of them would find out they are the same people and the people of the bible
Best believe my Jamaican ass clicked this sooooo fast. Big up mi country lol!! But this is so true.
Like everythingggg.
I'm 1st generation and have had the pleasure of going back to Jamaica many times, but both of my best friends are Haitian and the smear campaign that they made against Haiti still effects the way some Haitians view themselves and how some people view them. When I was younger, I definitely felt like I was better than EVERYONE, African-American, Latino, white any other Caribbean country just because I'm Jamaican because I really fuck with my culture. But then I grew up and realized that pride should not lead me to looking down on people. Also that I'm black lol and everyone hates us, and I literally only have heterosexual and able-bodied privilege. I feel like people from the Caribbean are just so happy that they make it out of these poor countries that no one can't tell them shit anymore, but its like they still choose their country over anything else because its just lit back home and nothing else can compare.
But anyway, awesome video Jouelzy, I always click that like button cuz your content is amazing.
lol u right! it is lit back home
but how can caribbeans think they are better than us when they came to the country WE built?
@@smoothnubian You do know that slaves from colonies from the Caribbeans were also brought here, right? Like they said in the video, they are speaking on their own experiences, I've never thought I was better than anymore and definitely not because I was Haitian/Caribbean. I've encountered African Americans in Florida who bullied me and other Haitians and thought they were better though but you don't see me generalizing ALL African Americans.
Wow didn't know Caribbean blacks drew such a sharp line between us. My father told me about this but I refused to believe it. But after watching this video and reading these comments I'm very disappointed.
If you're normal we don't. It's just the mentality of many AAs. It doesn't have to be this way if we learn to respect and understand one an other.
I as well wasn't aware that it was that bad, I believe the ignorace goes both ways.
I don't think that's true for all Carribeans, but I think we're coming from a strong cultural background that is different from yours. The line is definitely becoming more blurred over time I feel.
chinieyesmilez what ???? string cultural back would be that ur just from the carribean nothing more that's it ur blk African decendant just like African American
@@shamika5300 I'm Haitian born and raised, while we're all black and consider you all my people, don't be blind to the differences between African-American, immigrant African American and Caribbean American. AA with rude questions and comments about not looking Haitian, and white ppl calling me classy and not what expected.
Haitians left their sh*thole country to start over because big nations took everything from us, and we contributed a lot to other nations as well as this one. Do your research on the Haitian's contribution to USA, starting with Chicago's founder, and if Trump can find a loophole in my citizenship to send me home, my family still owns my childhood home and also the old country one, and gave back by building schools and churches.
All of my black people, you're going to the top, I'm with you. You're messing up every 5 seconds and I'm nowhere to be found, I'm sorry but no one's dragging me down, I don't care what race you are. Smooches!!
I identify as Haitian American, I was born in Haiti and came to america was I was young. I was raised in America. I didn't learn to love being African American until college, that when I learned the unity and power that we have in being black. Growing up, like Natalie, I was raise in a close knit Haitian community in Florida. African American hated us, well I thought so. We were teased, jumped, the Haitian flags were burnt in front of us, so I learned to love my self and have pride in who I am. I was always scared of White people and African Americans because of all the hurt I faced growing up. Other Caribbeans that I've met felt the same deepening on the location they were from. I always thought and felt like we were outsiders. If whites can accept that they have different cultures, if Latinos can accept that they have different cultures, why couldn't African Americans accept me and my culture. When I got to college, I met more "woke" black people, black people from all around the globe from African Americans to Africans from the the different countries in Africa it was amazing. They all identified as whatever their culture was and American. They taught me how to love being African American. There were African Americans who loved me just because I was black. African Americans who actually want to learn about me and my different background. The interaction we have with other makes us who we are. I don't think I'm better than anyone, nor do I think others are better than me. its a sense in learning to grow as a community of multi cultured blacks. To anyone outside of black we are all BLACK... point blank period.
I agree with your friend I was born and raised in Brooklyn. My Mother is Panamanian and my Father is from St. Kitts. I grew up with strictly Caribbean people, not until college did I meet African Americans. I would love to see a comparison with a Afro-Latina.
+HelloAnto I would also like a Afro-Latina video.
But her friend is an afro Latina as well like do people know what Latin means?
Erya Bolonha I think as two latinas we are very aware of what latin means but considering that the young women in the video spoke on what she identifies as (west indian/caribbean). She never said she identified as Afro Latina. So speaking for myself I would like a self identifying Afro Latino (preferably spanish speaking) to also be apart of this conversation.
+Erya Bolonha Let me clarify she views herself as Caribbean/West Indian. I'm saying someone who identifies as Afro- Latina.
+Erya Bolonha being that her friend is Hatian I do not think she identifies with being Afro-Latina. Haiti were colonized by the French and is located in the Caribbean which is not strictly South America.
I'm a Nigerian brother but to me there is nothing more beautiful than a fresh Haitian female accent ...it can make a brother melt
Next you gotta do a South American experience in America (Colombia, Suriname,Guyana, Brazil,Peru,, etc)
+ebeledi While Guyana is geographically South American it is culturally Caribbean not sure how it would be relevant to the Spanish speaking countries you named with the exception of Suriname which is Dutch
Ike's Lions Den that’s tricky this is about black cultures now South America is a little different the blacks their are small and too mixed up more European blood and this not a European channel
@@destiny3354 i'm from Suriname , i think you don't much about Suriname , you have the maroons , they have the African roots dance ,music , food, and African clothes , Afro Suriname people are most commen with there African roots ,you sound very ignorant, and Brazil have the most blacks Outside of Africa, they have black culture too , , you must do educatie more about this countries, and not everyone is mixed, Suriname and Guyana belong to the Caribbean too, you must be from America
as a half jamaican, half nigerian, american born person who grew up in SE connecticut where most of the black people in my town were haitian American I found this so interesting. When I was waaaaay younger I got made fun of for being African but I think that was because school kids are just terrible. It's definitely a turn of the tables to see africa and african culture being so ... i guess the word is celebrated... in america today. Since all my friends were haitian growing up it gave me a really cool perspective and I absolutely love haitian culture, we're all just one carribean family, you seeit? Even though I have a Nigerian name and I think I look very Nigerian, I grew up with my Jamaican mom and her family (not my dad) in a household that spoke jamaican patois and practiced jamaican culture... I always felt more Jamaican. Now that I live in Europe I just say I'm American to save myself the complication and because Italians don't consider italian-americans italian so am I really jamaican or nigerian? I think as kids who grew up in America we have a culture so similar to each other and a bit different from our families in jamaica or nigeria for example that I feel 'most' accurate calling myself American. Only anther first generation jamaican or nigerian could TRUELY know my experience, you know? The 'american' identity is an immigrant identity so as long as you're a US citizen who grew up in America you're american and will be seen as only such outside of the states. Anyways the other day I was told that I wasn't african american because my parents weren't born here so I was like...... ok............. but jamaican-nigerian-american is way too long! I always felt like having immigrant parents I was always under way more pressure to succeed. My mom struggled a lot to come to america and give her kids a better life than she had so I felt like I had no choice other than to achieve excellence where as I don't think my AA friends had that type of pressure to deal with... but I can't really speak for them :P buuuut that's my two cents. awesome video guys!
Tia Taylor ee
The Taylor your lucky to be linked again to the motherland Africa
Wow! Beautiful cultural identities! :-)
@@johnroach1101 just do your AFRICAN ancestry and find out what specific people you come from in africa. Then educate yourself about them and try to make a trip there. Build solid friendships. Start a family with a woman from there? The connection is never lost.
Thank you for sharing your experience.
I think in places outside of the Caribbean there is a real negative connotation with "You are not...", in my experience (in some countries) a nationality is just a nationality and doesn't define who you are.
My father is Jamaican, my mother is Trinidadian, my sister is American and I am also Trinidadian. Even though my sister has never lived in America and she only has citizenship, I would never say she was Jamaican, Trinidadian, or one of the two "-American", I would just say she is American and that doesn't take away from her Trinaican culture. It doesn't make her any different in my eyes or my family's.
I'm Carribean and African, Jamaican and Nigerian specifically. I identify more strongly as an African just because I grew up in Nigeria but I love my Jamaican heritage lol. I did visit Jamaica as a child and grew up eating the food listening to the music etc along side my Nigerian. I think both cultutes are very strong and I do agree former British (speaking) colonies do tend to have an advantage emigrating due to speaking English - they just had to deal with our accents lol.
I am too☺
So cool!
+shadele17 Omd yessss Jamaica and Ghanaian but live in the Uk.
+adjoa97 Yay! Live in the UK too.
+shadele17 😄🙌
After looking at these comments I'm genuinely confused on why people are bashing her. She is explaining her experience as a Haitian American. As an African American from the south, I have nothing but respect for immigrants from the African diaspora. How many times do we have to emphasize that we are all different. We have different cultures and upbringings and THAT IS OKAY. Much respect to people from the West Indies and Africans.
This was a great topic to discuss. My family is from the island of St. Vincent and I was born in Brooklyn, NY. I can relate to your line sister because I also grew up in Flatbush. In the 90s, I was constantly teased because of my dark complexion, natural thick hairx and conversative dress. Classmates called me "haitian booty scratcher, african, black and crispy" because of how I looked. In the 90s, it was looked down upon to be Haitian. I identify as West Indian-American, Black, Caribbean American, Vincy-American or Vincentian American because I was raised with the values of the culture of St. Vincent. When it comes to dating, it has been easier to date someone from the Caribbean than an African American or African due to ethnic similiarities and differences. When I visit St. Vincent, my relatives may playfully call me a "Yankee" but they understand how much pride I have in my family's heritage and would not trade it for the world.
Side note: I am currently visiting Houston for the first time and it feels very isolating (could be because I am in the S.W.A.T area). In Brooklyn, especially Flatbush, I always encounter people and places that identify with the Caribbean from the shops, dress, loud music playing, interactions among people, etc.
I'm happy you brought up the whole Haitian/Dominican topics. I've seen horrible comments made about Haitians by Hispanics mostly Dominican people. It's quite sad. Natalie gorgeous,and this video was very informative
I heard many mean comments about Mexican mostly coming from people in the United States.
I LOVED this conversation. I was born, raised and currently still reside in Brooklyn. I am that "african american" you spoke of, descended on both sides from parents AND grandparents of southern descent (Virginia and North Carolina). I remember growing up around a large west indian/predominantly Jamaican community in East Flatbush (also referred to as the 90s) and I remember there being a very palatable beef between Haitian and Jamaican youth there and could never really understand why or where the animosity came from... But hearing your line sister talk about how the revolution got silenced and propagandized, I'm realizing that may have played a part. Fascinating and informative dialogue... #Props
+S Karim LOL it's a pride thing. I should know, I got both in me lol
Black woman are beautiful no matter where we are from...shot out to out motherland Africa!!
Joulezy, thank you so much for doing this video. I identify as Haitian - American as well! My mother is American and My father is Haitian. I was born in America, but I grew up in a house hold full of Haitian culture with lots of influences from my father, aunts, and uncles for most of my childhood. When my parents divorced and my mother moved us to another state; I lost much of what I considered to be my Haitian culture and identity. I spent most of my adolescence and childhood feeling like I was an "African American" because absence of my father and the culture and influence that he brought to our home. I struggled with my identity for much of my early-mid twenties in my adult life especially when the questions of "what are you" came up very often in college. I can certainly relate to a lot of what Natalie discussed. And I for sure received the brunt of jokes, discrimination and mistreatment for being a Haitian in my preteens when I went to stay with my father in Orlando, Fl for a few months. I found myself explaining to everyone that I was just "half". I definitely wish I could have been more proud of who I was back then. Children were just mean and brutal back then. This video just brought up so many emotions for me to the point where it pretty much made me call my dad and schedule a vacation to go see him in Florida. Our communication is not as frequent as it should be, but videos like this remind me of how much I appreciate that side of me me. Thank you so much Joulezy for being SMART BROWN GIRL....WE LOOOOOVE YOU!
+Felicia Mesadieu you're such a pretty mix of ethnicities.
I'm Jamaican/Cuban descent. Born and raised in the US. What the girl in the video said is right. There are a lot of Caribbean people who feel they are better than African Americans. In the Northeast and parts of Florida, it is very easy to go most of your life and not be around what some call "regular black folks". I wasn't always accepted by AA's because as a Caribbean kid, it is a big part of who you are. We don't eat the same food, music, language, and culture. So I found it easier to be with other Caribbean people. Just certain things when we are together we don't have to explain. That's why Carnival is so popular. We are different islands but there many similarities.
It's interesting to think that it would be easy to get along swimmingly with someone who thinks they are inherently better than you and has no interest in unpacking those thoughts. The possibility of imbalance in that relationship lurks quietly and sometimes overtly. I'm not talking about her specifically. The comment struck a nerve because in my experience, when people rank themselves above or below others, their interactions are rooted in what they feel their position is. The way they talk to and about and deal with the ones they feel they are better than is not, in my experience, a healthy exchange.
I'm both. My dad is Haitian. Mom black American. I identify ass Haitian American..just a really strong sense of pride in culture. I married a first generation Dominican. As I age preservation of my culture has become sooooo important to me. changing my last name was MAJOR. It was such a large part of who I am. My history. Love this series.
+MHector367 You married a Dominican? That's interesting. How does your dad and his side of the family feel about that?
+Dani X Maybe it was someone from Dominica...
I never heard my dad say ANYTHING about Dominicans growing up so I didn't even understand the history. While I was doing the seating chart for my wedding, my dad saw that I had mixed up the tables and put both at many of the tables and he FREAKED out on me. But on the rare occasion where we're all together everyone gets along fine. Have I noticed things that I personally don't like, yes. But, you know... Dani X
MHector367 ok just wondering :)
Perhaps because I'm older I never claimed anything but African American because that's what I am. I grew up in Bed-stuy Brooklyn, and I didn't know anything about the parade until I was about 19yrs old. On the other hand my cousins grew up in Flatbush and their experience growing up was different than mine.
You pandered to that Haitian, why? I'm Black American with a rich culture. These foreigners aren't better than I.
Marcus J. Barber nobody is better than anybody bro. We all black and we all we got🇭🇹.
Black American's have a different culture in each state in the USA with a lot of similarities
Great video! Perfect timing since I was having a conversation with someone about the Trujillo era. Mind you, we're Dominican, so imagine how irritating it was to listen to what they "learned." (warning: pretty long comment, lots of thoughts) I had previously been informed about the dehumanizing, abuse, and slaughtering of the Haitians in the Dominican Republic, however, hearing the "justifications" that were brought up made me cringe. This person mentioned everything that Natalie said about what people THINK of Haitians, and even tried to justify what happened. The idea is that at the time the Dominican Republic was plummeting BECAUSE of the Haitians. There was absolutely no way of me convincing this person that what they have been spoon fed is more than likely not true. The idea of Haitians having one of the most negative and nasty culture is embedded in a lot of the Dominicans that grew up during and after that era. This is actually the first time I hear of these opinions being brought up among other ethnic groups, so I found it pretty interesting.
Question: Have you ever known a Caribbean-American who had a hard time defining their culture and having to prove themselves because their family had raised them in an assimilated household, completely deprived of their native culture?
+Karlene Israel Your comment is interesting and it kind of reminds me of the Nazis and Germans and how the Nazi spoon fed the germans negativity about the jews (which justified their participation in the genocide of jews). BTW Haitians are dogged out everywhere nothing new, smh.
To answer your question, yes I do KIND OF know a Caribbean-American who had a hard time defining their culture and sometimes had to prove themselves. This person is ME lol. I grew up in a Haitian/Jamaican household. My household really wasn't assimilated with the African-American/American culture; but I wasn't exactly traditionally assimilated into the Caribbean culture either. The Jamaican/English spoken culture was more dominate culture in my household, so I didn't know French/Creole even though it was spoken around me alot. I felt deprived because I couldn't communicate with most of the Haitian side of my family. I felt less Haitian and less Jamaican because I wasn't full of either one. Now I embrace it cuss it's literally the best of both worlds to me. I like this question, what about you?
+Dani X I appreciate you for sharing this story b/c I struggle with my cultural identity as well. My grandparents on my mom's side are Haitian. My mother and I are both American born and my father (as far as I know) was Black American. I grew up living with my mom and grandparents and was aware of much of the Haitian culture, but not fully immersed in it as my mom and other aspects of our home were very much American. My grandparents spoke Creole to each other but spoke to me in English, so I never learned the language even though I heard it so much growing up. I've been told that I'm not really Haitian because I don't speak the language or am not fully immersed in the culture, and always felt that I had to prove my identity. It hurts and is embarrassing at times because it feels as if I'm unfamiliar with a large part of who I am and where I came from. But, like you, I've learned to embrace both cultures.
+Dani X I am that Caribbean-American lol. I actually lived in the Dominican Republic for about two years, but before and after that, I've been the oddball who can't speak Spanish all that well, doesn't listen to Bachata because it was never on the radio, doesn't like dumplings & salt fish, or anything that is related to being Caribbean or more specifically, Dominican. The most I've been exposed to is the food and of course people in my neighborhood. I feel that I was deprived because my parents believed that the more "Americanized" I was, the better chance I had at "The American Dream," or a better chance of having a good life. Which of course I've learned isn't true, I'm still black and I'm still from the 'hood, so those are all factors. I find it interesting being that they'll claim to be proud Dominicans while looking down at their own culture, as if being an American makes one more civilized.
+Jessica Jay Aww no problem. thanks for sharing your story with me too cuss I can definitely relate!!! I've haven't been directly told that I wasn't really Haitian because I don't speak the language, but it HAS BEEN IMPLIED and I have felt that way many times. People always asked me why I don't speak Creole or French and I was always ashamed of that like they were questioning my Haitian-ness. And I always say defensively "well, I'm half Haitian". But you know what my mom is like you are not half Haitian, like what does that even mean? Jessica you and I are just FULL of two beautiful and rich cultures. We got the best of both worlds!!!
+Karlene Israel I feel you, I know people like that too. It must be hard for you. Perhaps it isn't so much about your parents looking down at their own culture but instead deciding to fully being and committing to the experience that being an American is. Some people feel like they just have to choose one or the other because it's simpler. Like growing up, I felt like I had to cater to both sides of my heritage while being the traditional "African-American" (such as listening to hip hop). I don't consider myself "African-American" btw. I do feel a bit different from African-Americans and don't understand some of their ways. Even so, it's an opportunity because if you want to you can learn about your culture in an more unbiased way. Your first comment the one that interested me was about the injustices between the Dominican Republic and Haiti, and being annoyed about the older generations ideas about the Trujillo era. You see it for what it is and you are clearly WOKE about what's going on. That's an asset.
I'm African American, educated, had chores, was punished when I did wrong... .. . My daughter has chores, gets amazing grades... I never knew we were viewed like that. Granted, this is the view of one, but it was interesting.
4 years later and as an African American and Haitian woman I'm feeling both sides (Though I think it was off about the discipline thing.) My behind got beat and had to get up and clean on both sides🤣. I got made fun of for being African American by Haitians and made fun of for being Haitian by African Americans. I could NOT win. I was told I couldn't celebrate or take pride in my Haitian side nor my African American side.
Lots of West Indians and/or Africans think American black people don't exist. I get interrogated by people asking "where are you from?". I say I'm from here, I'm American, and they don't accept that as an answer, like there is no such thing.
We have always been in the United States, since colonial times - just as long as you all have been in Jamaica, Haiti, Trinidad etc. We are the native black people in this country
lol west indians are very aware of that are u sure ?
Proudly West-Indian no they are not aware of that. Y'all Caribbean claiming ur island brought by ur opressor lmao do y'all know where y'all originated from before the island ?
Do you?
Natalie didn't even grow up with African American friends and didn't even know they existed until colledge...so how come she thinks she knows so much about us? Half of what she said was kinda wrong :(
I'm Haitian Canadian, along with English I also speak Creole and French. I find that Haitians i Canada and Haitians in the U.S are very different. It's so weird that American Haitians don't speak French although I understand why it's still strange.
Jouelzy, please check out Paule Marshall's books. She has written a lot about African American and Caribbean interaction in pre war WW2 Brooklyn. A simple Google search would come up with a few books and NYT article. If it's possible, you should see if you can arrange an interview with her. She's still alive!!!
BROOKLYN!!! This is all I have to contribute (I'll see myself out....)
+tomaitoe All jokes aside, I really appreciate this video, Joulezy. You always have really thought-provoking content.
+tomaitoe. Love it! BK, Stand Up!
Yes, I am a proud Black, Trinidadian, Brooklynite!
+Summerbeeuty +Aiyana Kaizen Yes! BK all day, big up Wadadli massive! :)
Lol
I loved this video. I'm a Midwestern Black American as both of my parents folks' moved here from the south. I was talking to my mom about the perceptions among Black-Americans, Africans and West Africans and we both came to the conclusion that Africans and West African probably do have better work ethic and academic expectations. A lot of black doctors and Ivy League students in America tend to be Nigerian, etc., you know? Now, I certainly don't think Africans/West Indian Black folk are better because of this but I do think we have to ask ourselves why the expectations/acts of discipline *seem* to differ. I hope I don't sound ignorant or like I'm making a terrible generalization. After all, I know plenty of high-achieving Black Americans, but our brother and sisters who have parents from other parts of the diaspora *seem* to be doing better, at least on paper.
Anybody have thoughts on why? I think any thoughtful response would have to be very deep and complex...
A big part of it is that you're comparing an entire group (Blk Americans) to a select(?) group (Africans/West Indians). There are shiftless bums in all communities, but African/Caribbean ones are a lot less likely to get granted green cards to showcase that stateside.
+michelleatdawn No African and West Indian are not better but I think the environment and they've lived makes a difference. African Americans are in an oppressive system were for generation they are told that b/c of their skin they are somehow less. I think that has the ability to break a person's spirit and can get passed down generation after generation. Families don't just pass on wealth but mindsets and social capital. Africans and West Indies can draw on a rich history to combat negativity. Whereas in America the African American extensive and beautiful history is narrowed downed into a month and not celebrated on a constant basis. African Americans achievements are brushed off, seen as an exception, or appropriated by others. I think also being immigrates also plays a large role.
+michelleatdawn Their better work ethic. That's bullshit. They come from societies where they have little opportunities. They have to work hard because they don't want to go back. They also have their relatives who are depending on them financially. There is always a hand out. These guys have no choice. They are the lucky ones to escape. They provide the entry into this countries for their other relatives. Honey it's a necessity. It's pressure to survive so they want have to go back.
+Chalky White work hard at what complain all the damn time .. or selling petty drugs ..robbing people ..going to jail ..what hard work are u talking about ..
+Chalky White also I will remember how much u people have achieved the next time I drive thru one of those shit hole ghettos you people call home in one of the richest countries in the world ..I will remember how much y'all own the next time I try to find a black American owned business in y'all so-called black community ..I will remember how proud you people carry yourself the next time I hear one of you fools scream out world star to video tape one or a pack of you fools beating up another one of you fools ..oh by the way for another 2 yr in a row another Nigerian child has scored a perfect score on the SATs also she has been accepted to ever Ivy League College in the country on a full academic scholarship ..in the mid west the Somali students are breaking all academic records in high school and college ..
Very interesting video. I can agree that Haitians are looked at negatively compared to other Caribbean people. What is her IG? She's really pretty
This is an interesting conversation. As a first generation American of Jamaican born-and-raised parents (& grandparents who immigrated to Jamaica from other countries), I identify very much so to your friend, Jouelzy. Actually growing up, we pretty much had the same experience (except I've traveled back a fair amount of times - now it is seemingly more dangerous unless you're staying in certain places). In my Long Island NY community, everyone was an immigrant. I cannot outright identify who the African Americans were because it was so few. All the peers I came across were first generation American or immigrated. I identify with black as my race, but proudly state my ethnicity as well. It is something we have grown up with & accustomed to. Having to constantly circle African American on a standardized test, after being raised to know my bloodline and family tree, was disheartening. Not in a less than way, like we're better. But more of a we exist, we have cultural differences, why can't we be acknowledged? kind of way. I think for a lot of Caribbean Americans, we are under pressure to be black, just black, and not say anything more otherwise we'd just appear boastful. As if me identifying with my specific ethnicity is demeaning to black culture. Yes, we are black. We will always be black. But we can identify as other things and that will not take anything away from those movements specifically trying to uplift Black America. I don't forget that I'm American, too. But in general, it is pretty difficult to state a claim/connection to a country whose history and present day issues make your stomach turn. A country who you know would never love you back in this lifetime. That's where the lack of claim comes from. But there is no shortage of knowing.
My advice to People that are scare to visit HAITI, it is the mainstream media hypes, it is not perfect by any means, but if you visit the country, don't go to Port au Prince, it is a not a tourist welcoming place, but go to the peaceful lovely country side, please do your research before you go to any places in the world...
I appreciate your friend being honest about how many Caribbean feel. My best friend who is Antiguan said same thing was taught to her by her family that they were some how better...But we are BEST FRIENDS and I'm Black American its very interesting dynamic.I also have a friend who we GREW UP she was Dominican a few years later she now calls herself Puerto Rican We had a huge fight about this because I met her family and grandparents who raised her and they said they were Dominicans Flag on display and all and she is now raising her daughter as a Puerto Rican