How to be Haitian in the Dominican Republic?

Abstract

This thesis deals with the identity of Haitian migrants in the neighbouring Dominican Republic. Evolving around the central question: How has the identity of Haitian immigrants living in an urban area in the Dominican Republic changed; and how has this process been affected by a hostile Dominican environment of discrimination and stigmatization? This work outlines how this situation of a hostile Dominican society has evolved around the notion of dominicanidad and the portraying of Haitians as ‘the Other’. Concepts as identity, race, ethnicity and social class are explored, since they are crucial in understanding the position of Haitians. Discrimination is defined and placed in the Dominican context. Stereotyping and stigmatization will be described as African influences in Haitian identity are labelled Haitian. Haitian identity will be explored as well as the impact of the discriminatory society on Haitian identity. A special focus will be shed on second generation Haitian immigrants; Haitian-Dominicans and Rayanos. Next to discrimination and stigmatization, the migratory status of Haitian immigrants influences their identity. I will both look at Haitian social networks in the Dominican Republic as transnational networks. And the chances of social mobility perceived, given the difficulties encountered by Haitian immigrants.