Exhibit Highlights Haitian and Creole Culture

The 'Mitoloji Latannyèr / Mythologies Louisianaises' exhibition at Baton Rouge's Capitol Park Museum immerses visitors in Louisiana's cultural and linguistic heritage through art and storytelling, highlighting themes of loss and identity in the context of environmental and social justice. Curated by Jonathan Mayers, the exhibition showcases over forty artworks and recitations in multiple languages, reclaiming narratives often suppressed by assimilation. Meanwhile, author Yuri Herrera explores the complexities of identity and migration in his novel 'Season of the Swamp,' reflecting on his experiences in New Orleans and its deep historical ties to cultural transformation. In another development, Haitian immigrants are relocating from traditional strongholds in Florida and New York to the Midwest, finding job opportunities but facing backlash, including unfounded accusations from political figures about their behavior. The political climate is tense as the 2024 presidential election approaches, marked by concerns over safety and incidents like an assassination attempt on Donald Trump, alongside divisive rhetoric surrounding immigration. This environment raises questions about America's treatment of immigrants and the historical amnesia of some immigrant groups who now perpetuate anti-immigrant sentiments.