Perspectives on Voudou Religion in Haiti

In Haiti, a wide array of religious groups coexist in harmony. Amongst all these religions, Voudou carries the most notoriety, and has been instrumental in shaping Haitian culture. Voudou guided the Haitian people through 300 years of slavery, and played an important role in the revolution that followed the Bwa Kayiman ceremony. Today, Voudou  preserves the deep connection that exists between present-day Haiti and various African cultures. Dr. Jean Fils-Aimé, Prof. Jean-Claude Exulien, and Ms. Leonie Hermantin will discuss how Voudou shaped Haitian society, and explain why it remains a popular religion today. (simultaneous interpretation in English when appropriate)