This manifesto bears the signatures of Régine Chassagne, co-founder of The KANPE Foundation, and Win Butler, co-leaders of the band Arcade Fire, alongside voices from Haiti, the Haitian diaspora, and global allies who refuse to turn a blind eye and who stand united in their belief in Haiti’s strength and future.
18 May 2025 (MONTREAL): Despite everything happening in the world, we are concerned that Haiti’s ongoing crisis has become almost routine in the eyes of many major newspapers and newscasts. Yet, its history and legacy continue to profoundly influence the Americas. This May 18, Haiti celebrates more than a flag. It’s a turning point in the country’s history that would lead to its independence and the end of slavery, a moment that left a lasting impact not only on Haitians but also on people far beyond its borders.
Haiti has always been a land of refuge, a stronghold for the fight for freedom and the dignity of the oppressed. From its inception, Haiti supported the fights for independence of several Latin American countries. Haiti’s influence is also deeply embedded in the culture and architecture of New Orleans, shaping North American identity in profound ways, including through its role in the emergence of jazz.
The current crisis stems from many factors: the crippling, unjust independence debt imposed by France, climate change, natural disasters, and too many irresponsible actions by past Haitian governments, as well as foreign governments claiming to be allies.
Today, in the face of the challenges Haiti is enduring, we cannot stand idly by. The consequences of what is unfolding in Haiti go far beyond its borders. In an interconnected world, what affects one nation concerns us all. Indifference is not an option.
We unequivocally condemn policies that further destabilize Haiti, such as the threat of deportation of hundreds of thousands of Haitians who have built lives in the United States. These women and men are not outsiders; they are essential workers, community leaders and contributors to the US economy. The threat of mass deportation will only increase their vulnerability and deepen an already complex crisis in Haiti.
Equally alarming are the cuts to international aid that provide lifesaving support that millions in Haiti depend on. Withdrawing this support is like pulling away a lifeline from a person caught in the eye of the storm. Abandoning Haiti at this moment is unconscionable.
At the same time, we call on all funders, friends, and members of the Haitian diaspora: invest in Haiti. Now is the time to join forces and help the country write a new chapter. A chapter where security is restored, and the future of the country’s youth shifts from dreams to reality. A chapter where Haiti’s economy is revitalized, and the diaspora is engaged more than ever in the nation’s rise.
For nearly 15 years, the KANPE Foundation has stood alongside communities in Haiti, witnessing the strength, ingenuity, and determination of the Haitian people. We have seen communities thrive when provided with the right tools. We know Haiti’s potential is immense. Despite the crises, its culture and talent continue to shine through music, cuisine, cinema, fashion, painting, entrepreneurship, and more. What do Haitians ask for? Opportunities. What does Haiti need? Solidarity and commitment.
The world cannot turn its back on Haiti. Let us not forget that in Haiti, the time to act is now, so they not only survive the current crisis, but thrive for generations to come.
It is love, collaboration and solidarity, not cynicism, that will lift Haiti up.
We will be there, by Haiti’s side. Always.
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ABOUT US
KANPE, which means “to stand up” in Haitian Creole, is a foundation that supports underserved rural communities in Haiti towards autonomy through six pillars: leadership, entrepreneurship and economic development, agroforestry, education, health, and strengthening local infrastructure.
KANPE was founded in 2010 by two Canadians, members of the Haitian diaspora: political and business figure Dominique Anglade, and Arcade Fire co-leader Régine Chassagne. The foundation is registered as a non-profit organization in Canada and the United States.
CONTACT
Jennifer Brown, Executive Director
The KANPE Foundation
jennifer@kanpe.org
Signatures
Co-founders: Dominique Anglade and Régine Chassagne, co-leader of the band Arcade Fire
Members and former members of the Board of Directors, collaborators, Haitians from Haiti and the diaspora, as well as allies from Canada and the United States.
François Audet, Paul Beaubrun, Dan Boeckner, Jennifer Brown, Win Butler, Patrice S. César, Déborah Cherenfant, Nathalie Coicou, Lyndsay Daudier, Michelle Friedstadt, Anya Fouché, Nikolina Gateva, Phil Ianniello, Tim Kingsbury, Charles Létourneau, Fritz Louis, Hugo Merveille, Dounia Mikou, Youssef Shoufan, Martine St-Victor, Paul Harry Toussaint, Ronald Vigue, Izvor Zivkovic.
