Anticipation spreads
across the country of Haiti as young people begin writing, rehearsing and
preparing auditions for the second round of Restavek Freedom’s “Songs for
Freedom.”
Featured on CNN, BBC and heralded as “Haiti Idol” by NPR,
the 2013-14 music competition launched a movement with people crying out, “Aba sistym restavek!,” “Down with the
Restavek System!” What began as a regional singing competition to help raise
awareness around a long-held system of child slavery called restavek, has
turned into a phenomenon sweeping the country and mobilizing the nation to
stand up against the restavek practice. More
than 80,000 people were reached and engaged through the inaugural competition
with U.S. music artist Chris Tomlin and Haitian artist Jean Jean Roosevelt
performing at the grand finale to a 15,000-member audience.
Once again, Restavek Freedom will host events in each of the
ten departments of Haiti, culminating in a Grand Finale in Port-au-Prince in
April 2017.
“MUSIC CAN CHANGE THE
WORLD BECAUSE IT CAN CHANGE PEOPLE” – BONO
Music is a vital and beautiful part of Haitian culture.
Partnering with communities across the country of Haiti, Restavek Freedom is tapping
into Haitians’ love for music while awakening the conscious regarding the issue
of restavek.
We invite you to be
part of this exciting movement! We need
help publicizing the events, funding the competition, and identifying celebrity
judges to participate.
Contact
us if you are interested in getting involved, visiting an event, or helping
sponsor the competition.
“Music has a way of entering your heart and mind without
asking permission. It turns sorrow into joy. And builds hope out of ashes.” – Justin
Dillon, Slavery Footprint
