When it comes to Haiti as a whole rather than a specific community within Haiti, the image has been tainted. When people look at Haiti, they only see the destruction and violence that has flourished over the years. All the kidnappings, the killings, the assasination of our president associate the Hatian culture with danger. However, looking at Haiti from the inside, not being biased toward the stereotype that is held over this country, really allows you to see the genuine acts of kindness that occur daily.

The people on the street, the strangers that you would never even expect to bat an eye in your direction because of all the struggles they’ve had to go through alone, are the ones who – in my opinion – show the most care. Regardless of who you are or what you need help with, Haitians always stick together when it comes to their people – their community.

Despite Haiti’s image, the community is not what it appears. Aggressive, dangerous, unsafe are all words that are associated with Haiti and its people, but in reality it’s the contrary. Whether it be helping out someone who has a flat tire or greeting someone when they pass by, random small acts of kindness that happen constantly are the reality of my country, the reality of Haiti.