Jamaica's Debt to Haiti: The Forgotten Exodus for Freedom

This is why lady History always gives me a boner.

  In the pages of history, the brave and tumultuous journey of Jamaica's enslaved population often overshadows an important chapter that took place within the borders of Haiti. Yet, it is a chapter that should not be forgotten – the tale of how Haiti opened its doors to nearly 300,000 enslaved Jamaicans, offering them freedom and the chance to build new lives. Today, Jamaica owes a debt of gratitude to Haiti for this extraordinary act of liberation. 

This year alone, the Jamaican government facilitated the deportation of 65 Haitian migrants who arrived to Jamaica from Haiti on boats. It's important to note that these Haitians did not initially intend to travel to Jamaica; rather, they were at the mercy of wind and directionless navigation. However, these instances shed light on the Jamaican government's limited consideration and understanding of the plight of Haitian migrants, who often leave their homeland to escape gang violence and seek a brighter future. As the Jamaican proverb wisely states, 'Good frien' betta dan packet money.' Both nations share a maritime boundary, and as Haiti’s neighbor, many Haitians view Jamaicans as brothers and sisters. It's worth remembering that Jamaica was the home of Dutty Boukman, a prominent figure who played a crucial role in the Haitian slave revolt during the Saint Domingue era.

In the 18th century, Jamaica was a British colony where sugar plantations thrived, and the backbone of this booming industry was enslaved African labor. As the cries for emancipation reverberated across the Caribbean, hope and determination ignited the hearts of many Jamaican slaves.

During this era, the winds of change were blowing in Haiti. The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804) was a fiery struggle for freedom led by formerly enslaved people. It resulted in the establishment of the first independent Black republic in the Western Hemisphere, and Haiti became a beacon of liberty for enslaved people far and wide.

The impact of Haiti's revolution rippled through the Caribbean. Jamaican slaves caught wind of the revolutionary spirit on the neighboring island and yearned for their own liberation. As they heard about the possibility of freedom, the desire to break free from the chains of bondage surged within their hearts.

Haiti's leader, General Jean-Jacques Dessalines, saw an opportunity to extend the hand of liberation to the enslaved in Jamaica. He knew that solidarity in the fight against oppression was a potent force. In 1804, General Dessalines issued an invitation to the enslaved population of Jamaica, encouraging them to come to Haiti and join the fight for freedom.

Approximately 300,000 Jamaican slaves heeded the call and embarked on an epic journey across the Caribbean Sea to reach the shores of Haiti. They faced treacherous waters and harsh conditions but were driven by the dream of a better life.

Upon their arrival in Haiti, these brave souls were welcomed with open arms. They found refuge and a sense of belonging in a land that had tasted the sweet fruit of liberty. Haiti, a nation born from the struggle against enslavement, was now a symbol of hope for those who had suffered under similar chains.

This migration was not without its challenges. The Jamaican migrants faced economic hardships and the complexities of adapting to a new society, language, and culture. However, they also gained something invaluable – their freedom.

Today, it's crucial to recognize the debt of gratitude that Jamaica owes to Haiti. Haiti's extraordinary act of solidarity with the enslaved Jamaicans not only provided them with freedom but also served as a testament to the strength that unity and perseverance can bring.

The story of Haiti's open invitation to Jamaican slaves and their journey to freedom is a remarkable but often overlooked piece of history. It should remind us that the fight against oppression is not confined by borders. It transcends boundaries and calls upon us to stand together in the face of injustice.

As we look back at this remarkable chapter in Caribbean history, let us honor the courage and resilience of those who made the journey from Jamaica to Haiti. Let us remember that the debt Jamaica owes to Haiti is a debt of gratitude for the precious gift of freedom that was extended across the waters, and a debt of remembrance for the indomitable spirit of those who dared to dream of liberty.

Here is the letter written by President Alexandre Petion to James M'Kewan, the Jamaican Slave owner who followed the 15 enslaved men who fled to Haiti from Jamaica after hearing that Haiti is a safe haven enslaved-black-men. 

“Port-au-Prince

30th January, 1817

14th year of Independence

Mr James M'Kewan Port-au-Prince

Sir,

I have received your letter of 28th inst claiming the English schooner Deep Nine, together with the individuals who brought her from Jamaica to Trou-bon-bon, as your property.I have just given direction for restoring to you the vessel, and everything pertaining to her, but as to the men, they are recognised to be Haitians by the 44th article of the constitution of the republic from the moment they set foot in its territory, and it is out of my power to restore them to you agreeable to your demand.

Each country has its laws, as you must know, Sir, and fortunately for the cause of humanity, Haiti is not the only one where slavery is abolished.The allusion you make in your letter cannot be attended with any serious consequence, because nobody here has been guilty of suborning subjects belonging to other powers; but such persons as arrive in this territory must be protected, since the laws require it.If there be, among the men you claim, any who have committed crimes against the rights of men, they will, on your furnishing me with proof of their crimes, be delivered over to the proper tribunals established for the purpose of taking cognizance of them by the local laws of the country, of which they are now citizens.”