Haiti Policy Debates
Up To Interpretation: Haiti’s Constitutional Crisis
May 2, 2024
6:00 PM EST
Haiti is at a crossroads. The imminent establishment of the Presidential Council of Transition has been seen by many as the best solution to grapple with the country’s multipronged crisis. Yet concerns of legality, bring opposing calls of an alternate solution in the selection a Justice from the Court of Cassation “Cour de cassation” to serve as provisional president. As the debate rages, an understanding of both perspectives is paramount in shaping Haiti's democratic trajectory.
Join us for the inaugural session!
Speakers
Johnny Celestin, Board President, Haiti Policy House
With over 30 years of experience, Johnny dedicates himself to improving lives across Haiti and the United States through various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs). Currently, Johnny serves on the board of directors for several prominent organizations, including Konbit for Haiti (KfH), the Haitian Center for Leadership and Excellence (CLE), Sustainable Organic Integrated Livelihoods (SOIL), Defend Haiti's Democracy (DHD), Haiti Policy House, and the International Black Economic Forum. He is currently a Deputy Director in New York City’s Mayor’s Office of Minority and Women-Owned Business Enterprises (M/WBEs).
Firmin Backer, President and Co-Founder, Haiti Renewal Alliance
Firmin is a strategist and business consultant, he builds Diaspora partnerships, leading successful trade shows and promoting Haiti's economic growth. With 20+ years as an intellectual property expert, he is a retired Supervisor Patent Examiner at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office. Firmin holds multiple degrees including doctoral studies in physics, material science, management, and education.
Haiti Policy Debates is an online conversation and debate show, showcasing diverse perspectives from experts, advocates, and activists on the critical issues impacting Haiti and the Haitian diaspora. As Haiti grapples with complex challenges and overlapping crises, the need for a platform for informed conversation is more critical than ever.
Haiti Policy Debates provides a space for respectful, informed debate and discussion, while holding guests accountable for evidence-based arguments. The series reaffirms Haiti Policy House’s commitment to serving as a platform that champions the issues of Haiti, amplifies diverse voices, and fosters informed dialogue and democratic principles.
All views, positions, and conclusions expressed during the course of the debates are solely those of our featured speakers and do not represent the views of Haiti Policy House.