A letter to President Luis Abinader,

Dear President Luis Abinader,

With profound gratitude and a renewed sense of purpose, we, the Haitian entrepreneurs and citizens, extend our heartfelt thanks for your recent decision to close the borders, airspace, and maritime relations between Haiti and the Dominican Republic. While some may perceive this as a challenging period in our history, we view it as a unique opportunity for Haiti to embark on a journey of self-discovery, self-reliance, and national rejuvenation.

Rediscovering Our National Identity:

The closure of borders has prompted us to rediscover our rich heritage and cultural identity. It serves as a reminder that we are a resilient and proud nation with an extraordinary history and vibrant culture. In these trying times, we find comfort and unity in our shared identity.

Revitalizing Our Sense of Community:

For far too long, we have been divided and fragmented. The closure of borders rekindles our sense of community and underscores the importance of standing together as a united front.

Embracing Self-Sufficiency:

Our excessive reliance on neighboring nations has often left us vulnerable. This circumstance compels us to embrace self-sufficiency and reduce our dependency on external sources.

Redefining Our Relations:

It has become evident that our relationship with the Dominican Republic was more transactional than truly friendly. This realization prompts us to reevaluate our international partnerships and seek healthier, mutually beneficial connections.

Unprecedented Opportunities for Haitian Entrepreneurs:

The border closure has created a unique window of opportunity for our enterprising citizens to fill the gaps left by the Dominican Republic. We must seize this moment to foster growth, innovation, and economic empowerment.

Reevaluating Our Consumption Habits:

It is crucial to reconsider the products we have been importing from the Dominican Republic. If they can discard these products rather than distributing them to their own people, we must reassess our choices as responsible consumers.

Awareness for the Haitian Diaspora:

Investments in the Dominican Republic have often appeared secure to the Haitian diaspora, but this situation reminds us of potential risks. It is imperative for our diaspora to carefully consider these uncertainties.

Revitalizing Haitian Agriculture:

Our agricultural sector is fundamental for achieving economic independence and restoring our national pride. We must regain control over our food supply and reduce our reliance on external sources, including the Dominican Republic.

Unity in the Face of Adversity:

Recent events have shown that, irrespective of our skin color, all Haitians in the Dominican Republic are subjected to similar challenges. This shared experience should bind us closer together as a community.

A Hopeful Vision for Haiti's Future:

We fervently hope that our political leaders and business sector will join hands to create a future where our people no longer view the Dominican Republic as an escape but as a place of opportunity and progress within our own borders. This means generating job opportunities, enhancing infrastructure, and ensuring better security.

We are all custodians of our beloved nation, Haiti, and it is our solemn responsibility to safeguard it without exception. Whether we reside in Haiti or abroad, this responsibility remains unchanged. The needs of Haiti must always take precedence, and the current challenges serve as a poignant reminder of our collective duty to rebuild and rekindle the spirit of our nation.

In unity, resilience, and unwavering hope,

Akmann Van-Mary

Haitian Entrepreneur