| In
an attempt to further understand ourselves, our culture, and
our place in the world, the Haitian Institute presented "A
Comparative View of Hinduism and Vodouism." Dr. Marc Christophe,
of Howard University and head of the institute, moderated
the conference, and lead the panel and audience into an organized
and informative discussion.
 The
dis-
cussion was preceded by two short videos that illustrated
the complexities of Vodouism and Hinduism. A large group of
people crowded a small gymnasium in Wheaton, Maryland, to
listen and learn more about an inseparable, yet, still mostly
unspeakable part of Haitian culture. The crowd learned of
the multiple gods or lwa of both religions. There are
also many daily rituals and religious symbols that are very
similar.
|
 A
large gasp was heard when a Hindu wor-
shiper traced a symbol similar to a vèvè
before praying. As in Haitian Vodou, the Hindu worshiper carefully
traced the symbol with flour to represent one of the Hindu
gods. Both followers believe in one supreme being, bondye
or Brahman, but also follow "various personified Gods."
There are also specific purpose and rituals for each individual
god or lwa.
 The
dis-
cussion that followed the videos was very informative, and,
at times, extremely entertaining. Many took the time to clarify
the many beliefs that they've been lead to believe about Vodou.
Mr. Max Beauvoir, a Vodou priest (ougan), chemist,
and national speaker on Vodouism, was on hand to clarify and
enlighten the audience. The Hindu followers answered questions
from a diverse crowd, that included some Americans, and Trinidadians.
|
 It
is hard to define Haiti with-
out men-
tioning Vodou. It has been said that, "90% of Haitians
are Catholics, and 100% are Vodou followers." The Haitian
Institute has started a discussion that should be followed
by many more conferences, for there is a new interest in the
religion that is credited to have started the Haitian revolution
at Bwa Kayiman. As we try to find our place in the
world and write our own definition of who we are, there is
a new interest in Vodou, and therefore in ourselves.
The Haitian Institute
P.O. Box 65564
Washington, DC 20035
(301) 589-2316
Board
of Directors:
Marc A. Christophe
Reginald O. Crosley
Tania Beckham
Barbara Christophe
Ducarmel Bocage
Gladys Howard
Noel Howard
Marie Louise Jean
Lyssa Piquion
|
Celebrating 200 Years of Freedom 
