Haiti: behind the headlines

Progressio

Hidden behind the sensational stories of war and politics is the continuing struggle of the people of Haiti. While an unholy alliance of politicians, entrepreneurs, death squads and drug-traffickers scrabble for power most of the population endures the consequences of environmental degradation, economic stagnation and neo-liberalism on a daily basis. These hardships, combined with a lack of justice, inadequate health care and a poor, limited education system, make mere existence a Sisyphean labour.

This exhibition, to be held during the 200th anniversary of the independence of Haiti, will portray the lives of underpaid Haitian workers in the Dominican Republic, exploited orange plantation workers producing citrus oil for luxury liqueurs, charcoal burners forced to destroy the last of Haiti's tree cover to alleviate the poverty and desperation, fishermen hunting a diminishing stock and the peasants who struggle to produce on a tired and depleted soil.

It will also show the emergence of women's movements, the struggle to organise trade unions and the growth of artistic creativity during a time of hardship. The exhibition offers a glimpse into the lives of a forgotten people, while promoting calls for greater justice for Haitians.

The exhibition will take place between 10-28 May at: The Other Cinema, 11 Rupert Street, London W1 7PR.