By AVA TURNQUEST
Tribune Staff Reporter
aturnquest@tribunemedia.net
PEOPLE born in the Bahamas of Haitian descent are Bahamians and should have citizenship, according to Central and South Abaco MP Edison Key.
In an interview with The Tribune, Mr Key slammed successive governments for failing to address the long-standing immigration issue that has led to the marginalisation of a large group of people as “scapegoats of labour”.
He called on the government to move quickly and humanely to address the growing problem that he feels will soon become unmanageable.
Mr Key said: “These people, particularly the people that live in the Mud and Pigeon Peas, that’s my constituency. These are people that have children born there now who are doctors, lawyers, defense force officers, police, nurses.”
“They make a contribution and I blame all the governments for the situation they have to live in. They are human just like me and you and everybody else.
“There should be a more humane approach,” he said, “you’re born in a country, you don’t have no passport, and when you’re 18 you can only apply and they don’t have to give you any consideration for citizenship. But yet you are Bahamian if you look at it by your birth certificate.”
Earlier this year, an official from the Haitian Embassy urged the government to address practices regarding the process of regularising persons of Haitian descent.
Wallenson Nobert, first secretary of Legal Affairs at the Haitian Embassy, said the “real problem” faced by the Haitian-Bahamian community in the Bahamas stems from the absence of a clear legal framework to process migrants.
In response to a panel discussion hosted by the College of the Bahamas on the complex issue of statelessness within the Bahamian context, Mr Nobert said the use of the term “stateless” to describe unregularised persons of Haitian descent was “inappropriate” given Haiti’s citizenship laws.
Instead, he said, there was an inherent “hypocrisy” in the Bahamas’ handling of citizenship that allowed for a peculiar stratification of rights, adding “either you’re a part of a country, or you’re not”.
Outside the House of Assembly on Wednesday, Mr Key said: “I think the government should look at these people and sort this situation out. Let’s say it’s 60,000 foreign women in this country in this same situation and they each have five children – that’s 300,000 people. One day, it’s going to catch up with us. We need to deal with this situation now and don’t let it get any further.”
Mr Key referred to the recent spate of fires that have negatively affected shanty town populations in Abaco.
Last year, a mother and her year-old son were killed in a fire in the Pigeon Pea area in Marsh Harbour. More than 80 homes were burned to the ground on that occasion, leaving more than 500 people homeless.
Following the December 31 fire, Deputy Prime Minister Philip “Brave” Davis told Abaco residents the government would do all that it could to ensure a situation like that did not happen again, adding that members of such communities must make certain their homes are up to standard.
Last month in another shanty town on the island, more than 70 homes were wiped out in a blaze that consumed the Sand Banks area, and which police believe was arson.
Mr Key said consideration should also be given to regularise the parents of Bahamas-born children, who have worked in the country for more than 40 years.
When asked whether or not he had a solution to the issue, Mr Key said: “I don’t really know, but I know if I was in charge of the country or Immigration I would sort this out, especially with the children, but not only that, the parents. Some of them have been here 40, 50 years.
He added: “They’ve worked hard, they’ve helped to build every building, every house, every road. Why are we using these people that have made such a contribution and then at the end of the day say we don’t need you.”
According to Foreign Affairs Minister Fred Mitchell, senior Bahamian and Haitian government officials are in bilateral talks this week covering trade, technical co-operation and illegal migration. Negotiations in Nassau were said to have been fruitful in advancing the draft texts to be signed this summer.
Comments
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Reporter Ava are you suggesting arson for the reason you wrote; " Last year, a mother and her year-old son were killed in a fire in the Pigeon Pea area in Marsh Harbour. More than 80 homes "WERE burned to the ground" on that occasion, leaving more than 500 people homeless?"
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
if all those shanty town fires aren't obvious, wonder why bay street burndown wasn't.
Fitmiss 10 years, 6 months ago
I agree with the man. The people are here so lets naturalize them or whatever the correct term is. Let them be able to get jobs and better themselves and contribute to NIB. We are attaching a stigma to persons who wish to change their station. In part we are responsible for the state some of these people find themselves in. For example not only do they often have trouble getting certain jobs but it can be a hassle for these students to get into college. Listen we already fumbled the ball by not being vigilant and now these people are here so let us extend brotherly love or at least address this pink elephant in the room. Now those who are here illegal is another ball game and I won't attempt to enter that game.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Let's extend sisterly love to Bahamian women who's brother's kids are considered Bahamian if half foreign, yet not theirs.
jackbnimble 10 years, 6 months ago
So let me see if I get this.... I jump on a boat and break a country's laws by entering it illegally. I stay under the radar and work illegally ensuring that I don't get caught and while I am under the radar I have some children at the country's hospital be cause they can't arrest me there. When the children come of age, I send them to public school cause they can't arrest me there or stop my children from attending. At age 18 my children should now be made citizens of this same country that I entered illegally because they been here all this time, this is the only country they know and furthermore that country's constitution gives them the right to apply. So when my children don't get the approval automatically there is a problem.
Small wonder we have THOUSANDS of illegals here milking the slack system. ONLY IN THE THE 242! Let's entrench this sh** and reward them for their efforts and make them ALL citizens!
mangogirl01 10 years, 6 months ago
That's some crah eh!! Only in The Bahamas but let us try that in Haiti!!!
Fitmiss 10 years, 6 months ago
There are Haitians who are here legally working and have children born here who only know this place as home. Also there are children who have Haitian mothers and Bahamian fathers and are told they have to put in forms at 18 to decide if they want to claim they are Bahamian. This also can take years and these children and parents are here legally. I do not have a problem deporting illegal immigrants. We have already taught them in schools and treated them in the clinics and hospitals so now that they are able to contribute we block them?
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
If your parents are legal migrant or contract workers in The Bahamas, that doesn't change the nationality of the child born to these people ........ the child takes the nationality of the parents. If you are born out of wedlock in The Bahamas, you take the nationality of your MOTHER. That's Bahamian constitutional law. There is no emotion in law.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
It's not about this set , it's that the rules have loopholes and to do this is biased.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
I'm a little confused at your point because your argument is "when the can contribute ", which is after they've been through the schools which is 16/18 yrs old correct? America requires 10 years in the states before being able to start the process toward citizenship. It's very similar and in this time if you ever arrested for the most petty thing, your chances are screwed. As for being born American, well they make sure women can't fly pregnant passed so many months ( it's not just for safety). If the parents are new and not integrated into society, I think the whole at birth thing is just a way to try to play the system. Also how would that work if child support becomes an issue? Bahamas can't force illegal parents to take care of the kids they had here and left up to the country to protect without parents. At 18 they are adults where that wouldn't be an issue. Also they have a choice for what they feel they are. Same time as drivers license. Please enlighten us on the main issues and set backs before 18. Is it that they don't have a Passport from their own country in this time to travel? That part could be worked on.
jeanjoseph 10 years, 5 months ago
You will be better off getting some information and facts before saying things that you have absolutely no knowledge about. In the US, as a legal resident, it is after five year unless you are married to a US citizen and been with that same spouse for 3 years then it takes 3 years. Nevertheless, you can put your application in 90 days before you complete your five years or 3 years.
ElisaJ1 10 years, 1 month ago
People coming into a country illegally happens everywhere. At the end of the day they are helping YOUR economy. Since it is difficult getting jobs, they get the crappy jobs that your people may not want to take on. These people are still contributing to YOUR society. What big difference would it make if they where their or not? What change would it make?
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
Successive lousy PLP & FNM governments are to blame for the mess we now find ourselves in with this Haitian problem.
Both parties failed miserably at Immigration, tourism, education, finance and just about everything else the electorate intrusted them to deal with.
One of the biggest problems with so called legal Haitians is they have no allegiance to our country. They are well known to participate in all sorts of illegal activities and do everything they can to enable illegal Haitian migration for profit....This treason!
For decades illegal Haitian migrants were directed by "legal Haitians" how to work and beat the systems in the Bahamas due to government slackness and stupidity.
Dominican Republic faced exactly the same circumstances and recently took serious unpopular steps to deal with a serious situation. The Bahamas now need to seriously consider similar steps taken by Dominican Republic, or Haitians will take over our country for themselves.
A new petition being circulated by a group called "Bahamas Nationalist Alliance" seems to have done governments job for them in creating disincentives and solutions to dealing with the Haitian problem.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
Government and the electorate would do well consider some of the points and reasoning in this petition.
They certainly offer 1000% more solutions than any PLP or FNM government has in 40 years!
jeanjoseph 10 years, 5 months ago
asked this question yesterday: What makes the Bahamas an exceptional land? What is the Bahamas' legacy? What has the Bahamas contributed in the History of mankind? Your leaders, what have they done to make the world better or to change the course of humanity? Who is a well-respected Bahamian in the World today? I can count on one hand everyone who is a famous Bahamian and everything they have accomplished is just for themselves.
I know you are going to crucify me but just a simple search will reveal you the Haitians deserve more respect from you than what they are getting from you. You do not even have a National identity. Other than Junkanoo, what is the Bahamian culture?
Reply when you have the answer and you can be furious all you want but that does not change the facts that your sens of patriotism and bahamian exceptionalism is baseless, idiotic and laughable at worse.
PKMShack 10 years, 6 months ago
@jackbnimble @mangogirl If a Bahamain goes to the U.S. and have a child we say the child is American. If a Bahaman goes to the U.S. illegalyl then that illegal Bahamain face being deported if caught. He did not say if a Haitian comes illegally give them citizenship only to the ones who are born here. Why do we want our Children born in the U.S. given all their rights but Haitians born here given none. Good for us as Bahamains then why we think it's not good for Haitians. If ya born der you from there.
Fitmiss 10 years, 6 months ago
Right on I agree with you. I wish to add that one of the arguments posted in an earlier comment's attached petition, is that Haitians take Bahamian jobs. Seriously? How many persons actually want a job performed by Haitians? I tried hiring Bahamians to clean my yard, we got tired of running him down to show up to work, whereas the Haitian guy comes like clock work. Use any excuse to not want Haitians here except the job one as we won't do those jobs especially for some of the pay which we give them. When it comes to jobs, be more upset with the foreigners in the banks, hotels, schools as educators, construction sites, etc. As they actually can impede or hinder qualified Bahamians from getting a job. When it comes to foreigners we open our doors to them willingly as long as its not Haitians. I personally don't have a choice but to love and respect people regardless of nationality. They are already here, change the laws but don't mistreat the people Find solutions not bigotry.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
The jobs you are talking about is not what Haitians born here who go to school here go after. Of course Bahamians keep supplying illegals with jobs because Bahamians can't afford the pay standard for other Bahamians because Government isn't making that a priority. It would only make sense that natives were economically empowered then we'd Have to hire all Haitians because because their wouldn't be enough Bahamians for the jobs market. Get it in order. Don't disadvantage your own, do something to relieve locals of immigration expense and set proper feeder path to citizenship. We're naturalizing foreign culture yet not doing a thing to Get Emigrants to return???????? Our own want to come home. There's no incentive yet this gets to house.
jackbnimble 10 years, 6 months ago
@Pkmshack. You cannot compare our small country to big America. Further the instances of Bahamians entering the USA and living and working illegally and having children are minor when compared to this small country called the Bahamas. To say WE ARE OVERRUN is an understatement!
Listen. These people are not foolish. They have no problem risking life and limb to come here. Why because there is something to get. And what's that something? A new country for themselves and their offspring (and they have lots of offspring). And Why? Because our slack laws allow it. Take away the right to citizenship and there would be nothing to come for.
How is it that those of us who are 100% authentically Bahamian CANNOT see this?Or are like the blind fool who is the subject of this article who supports this foolishness? I mean is this man real???
Note that many persons who support this crap NEVER suggest that the children of the illegals be given permanent residence - this is sn option, you know. No! Let's reward them with the highest honour of citizenship with all the perks of voting and having a say in our country even if they have broken the law to come here. Get them straight so so that they can continue to encourage the others to come in droves. There's something to get. Automatic citizen once you pop that baby out here!
Persons who break the law go to jail, are fined or given some sort of punishment. Again only in the 242 do we reward law breakers for such behavior.
Boy I tell ya!!
jackbnimble 10 years, 6 months ago
Some more food for thought PMShack. If I deal drugs, then all my proceeds from my illegally activity in dealing drugs can be confiscated if I am caught. My home, my car, my funds which were all obtained from my illegal activity.
Well, the concept of illegal immigration should be similar.. If I break the law to enter a country ILLEGALLY then everything that is associated with that activity should also be considered ILLEGAL including my children who are born (as I am breaking the law) as the root of my entry is an illegal action...
A quiet revolution is upon us... wake up Bahamas!!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
With all the snubbing by gov to natives, the purchasing of armed boats, the selling of passports, something like this could start a riot.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Seriously , that argument in comparison to the US is dead. If that's what you want, go there for it.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
Key should know .... and support this.................. he and his farming buddies brought all of the Haitians to Abaco back in the seventies and eighties as "slave" labour. Thats how he became so rich.................. SMT. He needs to take his ole ass and go crawl under a rock
thomas 10 years, 6 months ago
These laws apply to all foreign nationals, not just Haitians. If you don't like our laws don't come here. There is a great big world out there, keep moving
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Comrade Reporter Ava, readers must be as curious as I am as how could you write this story on Marsh Harbour's MP Edison 's position on "Haitian babies immigration" but not call his party leader or deputy leader Loretta, to inquire, if Edison speaks for the red shirts position on "Haitian babies?"
MrAbaco 10 years, 6 months ago
Come on now, what do you think would happen in this country if every child born to illegal Haitian parents were to become automatic Bahamian citizens by birth, do we really want to motivate them even more to come to the Bahamas in larger numbers???
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Does the status even matter with illegals? The entry is not not dealt with. If they end up here, process their refugee assylum for elsewhere and keep the place unclogged. As for those who overstay, what happened to the little data you fill out on the travel card that says when you will be returning? Is all that info not entered anywhere for police to know when someone has grossly overstayed their time?
Well_mudda_take_sic 10 years, 6 months ago
Edison Key in his day made his small fortune in farming very large tracks of land in Abaco with foreign partners. Many who are old enough remember well how he orchestrated a great influx of illegal Haitians to work as slave labour on his farm land; he later proceeded to regularize as many of them as possible in exchange for their vote when he decided to enter politics many moons ago. Edison Key is known in Abaco as the father of the "mud" and "pigeon pea"! His legacy can only be: firstly a farming career he built by fostering illegal immigration for slave labour and secondly a political career built by giving his slaves Bahamian passports for his own political self-gain! How this man sleeps at night, God only knows!
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
Ditto........................... my sentiments as well. he needs a special voodoo doll to torture his ole ass for all of us true true Bahamians
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
wow , that sounded legit.
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Comrade Edison must know that the US State Department's Official Website now lists "English and Haitian Creole" as Bahamaland's two spoken languages. Comrade Edison must also know, it is not Bahamaland's Immigration Laws which are at the forefront of the pressing issue he brings up but the total disregarding years ago of these same laws by their birth parent,which is at the very root of their present day children's citizenship problems? While many Bahamlanders, wished it was as easy as Edision makes it out to be, when it comes to siding with a much smoother transition for Haitians born in Bahamaland to become citizens at the age of 18, if all other requirements have been met, it is just the tip of what today has been allowed to have grown into an dangerous sized iceberg of a difficult to solve illegal immigration nightmare. I am sure it pains many to be forced to get tough but it is the Haitians birth mother, not Bahamalanders, who created their difficulties, knowingly while breaking Bahamaland's Immigration Laws. Maybe a good start for Marsh Harbour's Edision would be to encourage these same young men and women to step forward, forcefully speak out against the many thousands more of Haitian Nationals, just waiting sail the waters heading to the same Bahamaland, they now claim as their Bahamaland....all as illegals?
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
That doesn't make any damn sense because we need to be speaking Spanish if anything. Half our business is happening in Latin America and we don't get translations in the news on it.
GQ 10 years, 6 months ago
Mr. Key was one of the first to bring and harbor the Haitians in Abaco, he used them well as CHEAP labor to make his millions from farming. I wonder if he knows the law which stipulates the status or non status of these offspring of ILLEGAL ALIENS.
From what I have heard coming from Abaco Mr. Key either needs to resign his seat or go back to the PLP from whence he came because he is a renegade and not a RED SHIRT.
jeanjoseph 10 years, 6 months ago
I am an individual who was born in the Bahamas of Haitian parents. At the time of my birth, my parents were living there legally on a working visas (work permit).
I was born at the Rand Memorial Hospital in Freeport, GB. I have my birth certificate from the Registrar Office and subsequently a Certificate of Identity known as travel document.
My siblings and I moved to Haiti and attend schools there and eventually we returned to the Bahamas on my 18th birthday. Now, in Haiti I could not get an Haitian Passport due to the fact I was a Bahamian National without a Haitian birth certificate, I had to wait until I was 18 to decide whether I wanted to be Haitian or being a Bahamian. I loved the Bahamas, it was a sense of pride for me to let everyone know that I was a Bahamian while living in Haiti. But as soon as I returned and applied to be registered a Bahamian Citizen and realized all the bureaucracy I had to go through and the money I had to spend a long with the people I had to lobby, I stated losing my Bahamian Pride.
Even after having all the necessary documents, 5 years went by with interviews upon interviews with absolutely no results. At one point, one Immigration executive said to me it is better for you to leave the Country. I followed her advice and moved to Canada and eventually moved to the US where I found my long time sweetheart and we got married and 3 years later I was already a US citizen working as a Consultant with Toyota making a salary of about $100,000.00 a year. Sometimes at work, I still refer myself as a Bahamian. Every achievement is due to the fact that I was born in the Bahamas.
I have been happily married for 5 years, I live my new home and family. But there is not a day that goes by that I do not lament the fact that prejudice and bureaucracy prevent me from being a citizen of the Land that I so dearly love: My Bahamaland.
Recently my wife said: "Honey, why don't you continue the effort to get your Bahamian Citizenship? I would like to be a Bahamian Citizen." I replied why being a Bahamian while I am an American, then I put my head down and said to myself: "America may be the land that received me and gave me what I needed but I will always love the Bahamas as the land that gave me birth.
My name is Jean Ely Joseph, I am an American Citizen born in the Bahamas of Haitian parents who was forced to abandon the Land of his Birth. (Mr Cooper, Ms Carter, Mr Campbell and many more of the Immigration Office in Grand Bahama know my story.)
http://tribune242.com/users/photos/2014…
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
Collateral damage! Our country is under siege by the influx of illegal immigrants seeking to exploit the success of our country! We, the offspring of true born, true bred Bahamians, in a long line of generations born in this country, remain steadfast and resolute in combating this onslaught! It's unfortunate what happened to you. But maybe your parents should have stayed in Haiti and attempted to build-up their own country instead of living off of ours. Many Bahamians, such as myself have potential job opportunities awaiting us in the United States and Canada (with better pay, I might add). But because of our sense of patriotism, pride, and devotion to our country, we've decided to stay here (no matter how difficult) and enhance the betterment of our country. It's because of people like us that your parents want to come here and have offspring like you. Haitians need to understand that we Bahamians don't have anything personal against you; but the Bahamas simply cannot sustain a large populace such as Haiti! We are a small island nation committed to ensuring the survival of our own! Whenever you migrate to another country, there are always unforeseen, problematic situations that occur. For example, many blacks migrating to the U.S. have to deal with racial prejudice and white supremacy. If they don't like it, they are always given the option to leave and return to their country. If any Haitian has a problem with the operations of our country The Bahamas, then they should feel free to exercise this option. Blame your parents for your plight, not our country. Tell them to go home and stay home! Their country needs their expertise!
P.S. Tell them to take Edison Key with them!
jeanjoseph 10 years, 6 months ago
I understand your concern. Sometimes being overzealous can get on the way of True Patriotism. The one who breaks the law clearly needs to face the consequences. I am a Big Supporter of Legal Immigration and a Strong Opponent of Illegal Immigration. When I moved to either the US or Canada and many other I have been to, I have always followed the Law because as a Christian, I know that one must follow the Laws of the Land where they live so long as those laws do not clash with the Laws of God. I guess if I had the opportunity to chose my own place of birth, even though I live the Bamahas, I would choose elsewhere. My parents did not break the law, when he left Haiti in the 70s he was here on political asylum which eventually led him to get a work permit and open a Bodywork Shop where he would fix cars. He was never an Illlegal. My mother was a merchant who had a Valid Visa to enter and re-enter the Bahamas. Eventually she got a work permit also. They were not illegals, but I understand!
Furthermore, when I had the ability to, I told my dad: "I will never live where I am not welcome." He understood me and packed his belongings and moved to Haiti where I build him his new garage and have his own Dealership. For the same reasons, when I was given a Choice by Toyota to provide Logistics Support for a dealership in the Caribbean I chose Hinoso S.A. from Haiti instead of Executive Motors. I know due to the fact my name was Jean Joseph, I would not be welcomed there.
Again I love the Bahamas, and no amount of discrimination and derogatory epithets would change the fact. USA is my new home, Haiti I have chosen for my business.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
You are Haitian ........ be proud of that.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
" in Haiti I could not get an Haitian Passport due to the fact I was a Bahamian National without a Haitian birth certificate" So it's Haiti enabling this , obviously if both your parents were one nationality and you lived there , Haiti should have recognized you as Hatian. So for all those who say our law is bizarre , please deal with your retarded government. If both parents were American, there would be no question of whether an American passport is issued regardless of someone being born out of the country. Geez. It's not us , it's them. Birth certificate and ID for travel sounds set enough to get anyone way ahead in life, see what stateless/undocumented really means in US terms. ha. ( Not being raised here, the Bahamian Pride held in Haiti was the same Pride that Bahamians born in America hold as children to say they are American as a I guess a prize but they are fully Bahamianized and never really mean to be American when old enough)
$100,000.00 , there ya go. you won. It takes just as long in the states sometimes to work out immigration although any unethical part was unethical. Please have a show for those forcing their opinions on the laws of this fragile economy. Roundabout to America.
Thank you for sharing with us to help us comprehend all elements.
jeanjoseph 10 years, 5 months ago
The laws in the US are completely different my friend. A child born in the US is an American Citizen no matter who his parents are except the children of foreign diplomats who automatically receive permanent residency by at birth.
And if you think that Birth Certificate and Travel Id are good enough to get anyone way ahead in life, I am asking you one question: Why is it that some of you at fighting over who can be or not be a Bahamian?
And yes, I am thankful to the United States for receiving me and being the Land of opportunity. And yes, I am making over $100,000.00 plus bonuses. I am not boasting, I am just thankful to God for giving me a way out and being able to live happily with my family in the best country of the world
asiseeit 10 years, 6 months ago
There are more Hatian's in Abaco than Bahamians. He NEEDS their VOTES! Think People!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
or new niggers at the start line again , guess we advanced too much.
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
This whole illegal Haitian migration problem should have been properly addressed and put to rest decades ago.
No illegal Haitian or their offspring should ever be allowed ANY STATUS in our country no matter how long they've been here!
How the hell can anything done illegally become legal?
I agree with the "Stop The Haitian Invasion" petition. Haitians or no other nationality should be granted citizenship with a right to vote. These people do not care about or have any loyalty to the Bahamas.
There are more than 10 million Haitians, 10 million Dominicans, 2 million Jamaicans and 11 million Cubans.
If either of these countries decide as Haitians have to swam the Bahamas with immigrants and get citizenship, they will quickly outnumber and vote indigenous Bahamians out of our own country!
NO CITIZENSHIP FOR ANY OF THEM!
If they've been here before independence give them citizenship. After independence July 10th 1973 give those that came legally residency with right to work only.
Haitians have proven beyond any doubt they are and always will be loyal to Haiti, so let them vote where they've proven their flag flying loyalty and allegiance is....NOT HERE!
Bahamians cannot access proper medical care and education for ourselves because Haitians parasites have overwhelmed the hospitals and schools.
Haitians are quickly dragging our country down to Haiti's level. Bahamians cannot afford to provide free education and health care for 10 million Haitians.
They are taking jobs from Bahamians and turning our people into beggars and thieves for survival. When was the last time anyone saw a Haitian begging in the streets?
It is time to force government deal with this Haitian invasion.
Sign the petition.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
"If they've been here before independence give them citizenship. After independence July 10th 1973 give those that came legally residency with right to work only. " and tax those who hire permit holders, make it fair for natives. and a bonus for tourism industry who hires locals of heritage for an authentic experience. Disney staffs from all around the world for persons to represent their country in Epcot , there should be absolutely no accent serving tourists. It's our culture being represented. Wake up. Government is at fault.
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
For sure he has family ties in Abaco? Let's not rush to push the applause button for Comrade Jean Joseph, cause there might just be some holes in his story? Comrade "piggyback" Jean has done well and we congratulate him but it does seem that for no other reason than just having been born in our Bahamaland, he first tried his hand at "piggybacking" his way into becoming a Bahamaland citizen? First, we need to examine more closely, how he could have "become" an American citizen in just 3 years? In order for anyone to even apply to become a U.S. citizen, you must have resided in the United States of America as a permanent resident continuously for five years, unless like Comrade Jean you take advantage of the most used exception to this rule, which is, if you are married to and living with the same U.S. citizen spouse you can "piggyback" to qualify (not be granted) for citizenship after only three years. I would be interested to learn what nationality did Comrade Jean claim to be on his US citizen application? If, for some future reason the US government had good reason to deport Comrade Jean, they do like to know in advance in the unlikely event it is deemed advantageous to the interests or reputation of US, where in the hell do we send Comrade Jean back home to? But all is not lost for our Comrade Jean, there is always Comrade Edison's The Creole Republic of Abaco to be departed back home to?
jeanjoseph 10 years, 6 months ago
I understand your concern and there is one thing you forgot in my story "I have reunited with my Long time sweetheart". She was a U.S. citizen and yes we got married and through her I gain permanent residence and yes citizenship and yes after 3 years. To where they will deport a US citizen with his wife and children born in the US? I am happy here and Happy to be a productive member of the American Society and help my fellow.
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
Illegal Haitians cost the Dominican Republic more than $200 Million annually for free health care, education and social services.
Similar to the Bahamas, Dominican citizens are unable to access medical care and schools because illegal Haitians have overwhelmed hospitals and schools.
http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/s…
http://ireport.cnn.com/docs/DOC-1065579
What is the dollar cost to Bahamians to provide free medical, education and social services to illegal Haitian migrants?
Sign the petition to help "Stop The Haitian Invasion" & forward to your social media friends:
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Comrade SP, unfortunately for those born in Bahamaland and upon attaining the age of 18, it is not because of some general prejudice by Bahamalanders against Haitians that is the problem but a left unchecked immigration system which is responsible for forcing the denial of citizenship's to qualified and worthy applicants. But I don't see where you are offering solutions to arrest this growing nightmare, without resorting to conducting ongoing, massive police and immigration raids against Haitians, for a speedy deportation back to Haiti? Is that our nation's one and only way to deal with illegal immigration?
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
One - Immediately process who's approved for assylum elsewhere.
Bahamianpride 10 years, 6 months ago
There's nothing that can be done about the people that were here for decades or their offspring, government has failed to do a good job in humanely addressing illegal immigrants for so long that now Haiti exist within the Bahamas. The sons & daugthers of illegals have grown up, hold positions and vote in elections. Jean Joseph is an A hole, it takes 5 years minimum to become a U.S. citizen, his statemens are an exaggeration. The point he fails to understand is that while some controlled legal immigration is good, no nation can successfully exist if people keep showing up unannounced, unwelcomed that have no special skill or benefit to offer or such skill is already in huge supply. The flow of immigrants must be managed, filtered to address populations issues regarding resources necessary for a people to survive. My heart goes out to the Haitian people who suffer and take risk to better their life, but my compassion does not cloud my logic in understanding that exponential population growth and small islands does not work out long term. How would Jean Joseph feel if 30 homeless people where to show up at his residence in the U.S., would his mentality and compassion be the same? No he would call the cops. Jean Joseph as a Bahamian who grew up in poor run down conditions as a child that could of used some of the resources being drained, I offer u my middle finger.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Offer something popular in Haiti and if they bypass that by coming here unannounced , they lose their chances of ever spending time to work or attend school. We don't have jobs ourselves but we have skills, training temps in a short timeframe to go back and start businesses that our gov could invest in, could be jobs for us : )
Though it's got to be well publicized over there that they cannot come here. Explain their odds. Share more Jean stories of why it doesn't work to come here illegally. It just doesn't. Get their countries to adopt fines. Put them on a intruder list.
jeanjoseph 10 years, 6 months ago
It does take 5 years unless you are married to a US citizen. In my case, I married my long time girlfriend who was a citizen and after continuing residency in the US, I applied for naturalization which was granted unto me. Do your research before you call someone an A hole. Please show some civility my friend.
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
I am a Bahamian of Haitian descent and I’m deeply trouble by some of the above comments. I had no control over to whom or to which country I would be born. Growing up in Nassau was painful; I was constantly teased, ostracize and condescended to because of the origin of my surname. To this day as an adult, I’m still considered unequal in the professional world. I hold a management position in a large corporation and am not respected as an individual or as a manager.
I understand the need to protect the identity of this country but please be mindful of the innocent children such as myself who were born in such a predicament. Politicians are afraid to amend the immigration laws due to backlash from the legal Haitian community. Please remember those same persons who are now in office rely on votes to get them there. The “Haitian Dilemma” will never go away because of this.
Also many Bahamians in the elite society who are politically connected have indeed exploited Haitians because of their strong work ethics, reliability and dependability in the work environment. They produce more in the work place for salaries that the majority of Bahamians would never agree to work for.
Essentially the Bahamas is now between a rock and a hard place; Haitians are now part of this society and have been for quite some time. There is no cure or easy fix to the immigration problem for reasons stated above and because of corruption at all levels of government. There are many Bahamians of Haitian descent that hold high offices in this country, but they will never admit to their heritage because of discrimination.
The names Dillet, Foulkes, Mitchel, Francis, and Moncur are names of Haitian origin.
Bahamianpride 10 years, 6 months ago
Haitianboy i agree Haitians are discriminated against, and kids born in the Bahamas to Haitian parents have no fault and should be given citizenship. But what i dont like is thousands of people coming here illegally. At some point the strain on the system is just to much. We have too many social problems the reckless breeding and irresponsible parenting of Bahamians, economic issues, including a good percentage of Bahamians living in abject poverty. We are constantly borrowing money to pay bills ( a lot due to mismanagement) and overan by criminals every where. Imagine if illegals continue to come in record numbers, add that to the reckless Bahamians we already have and imagine the nightmare that would exist in just a decade. The doubling effect of social chaos would occur, unlike controlled immigration where strategic planning can take place evualuating the skill and necessity of everyone who enters and making controlled adjustments to accommodate. Hospitals, housing, infrastructure including education can be carefully planned to accommodate population. Population growth is a problem in itself but even worse if people are coming and living in abject poverty utilizing resources without making enough contributions to balance the system the system will fail over time. Then we must factor in we live on small islands. The Government on behalf of the Bahamian people should of made all attempts to help the people of Haiti as much as possible in Haiti but secured our Country. Affluent individuals have exploited the situation and benefited but at what point does some form of controls be put in place. I would be the first to condemn anyone who discriminates or treats anyone unfairly, that's why i say assymalation must occur and all forms of discrimination must end immediately, but enough is enough.. If u continue packing people onto a boat sooner or later it will end up at the bottom of the Ocean.
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Comrades there are no easy answers to illegal immigration but we all know we have a serious cultural problem, when the US State Department's website lists English and Creole as the two languages spoken in Bahamaland. But we have to come up with solutions not just mouthing off and maybe we can begin by not being too damn lazy to walk or drive a few blocks to cast our votes. I will list a few possibilities with number one being .... "mandatory fluency in the ENGLISH language" will solve giving radio stations an excuse to earn revenue from running radio spots in Creole and will put a instant stop with the insulting offering programing in Haitian Creole. ALL job vacancies MUST be registered with the ministry of labour. If you hire illegal workers you will be fined thousands of dollars and upon your second conviction, each member of the board of directors WILL be jailed with your business - lock stock and barrel - subject to forfeiture. Once you have been convicted of breaking the immigration law, you also must surrender your passport. Haiti has all sunshine it needs. What they don't have are jobs. Once you remove the possibility of jobs from the equation, they WILL not pay in the thousands of dollars ( thought they were broke) to risk their lives to sail aboard some unseaworthiness, overcrowded sloop. . .....
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
Bahamians .......... those of you who have legal and cultural rights to the title, don't be swayed by all of the emotional hype that you hear from "Haitian Bahamians".
Either call yourself Bahamian or please go find the place that you wish to identify with ......... a house divided cannot stand ........ and you cannot serve two masters. You are either legally, culturally and psychologically Bahamian or you are something else ............ we don't need any half breeds.
And I do not apologize for my comments .......... they are shared by a true true Bahamian
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
BahamianPride
I understand the predicament that this country is face with but there are other nationals that are also here illegally but aren’t discriminated against as strongly as Haitians. For instance there is a large population of Jamaicans who are living here illegally in the Bahamas. Their music and food have been accepted and embrace by Bahamian society for as long as I can remember. Growing up as a youngster I could remember hearing reggae music playing everywhere in the Bahamas, at night clubs, parties and on auto stereo systems. Dancehall is the preferred dance of choice for many Bahamians.
I personally believe that it is because of the language barrier and excess poverty that people find threatening. People fear what they don’t understand. Remember there are a lot of rich expats who reside here in the Bahamas ; they are embrace with love because of the economic benefits they provide for the country.
In the book of Proverbs it says “The poor are shunned by all their relatives-- how much more their friends avoid them! Though the poor pursue them with pleading, they are nowhere to be found”.
And...
“Wealth attracts many friends, but even the closest friend of the poor person deserts them.”
Jobs are very limited in this country; those same persons who cry out over the current immigration crisis may have somehow contributed to the escalation of it. For example, there are many Bahamian citizens who want immigration reforms, but hire Haitians to perform menial jobs for below minimum wages.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Poor Bahamians are adopted as part of culture. It's the exhausting of the structure. We need solutions , you can help us. Culture clashes do threaten an society but Immigrant prejudice is very wrong. I think it's the government who can do better. But may I ask about the illegal side, what is it that's rumored in Haiti about the Bahamas? Why is it harder to try for America? What are the expectations upon arriving here? you may not have had that voyage but being part of the sect, I'm curious. Besides Bahamians providing odd jobs.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
( above you see why PLP won )
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
@ TalRussel...We have no other recourse than to round up illegal Haitian migrants and repatriate them. They will never leave on their own and they are like a heavy weight around our necks dragging us down to their level.
Those that were here illegally for 20 & 30 years have no right to citizenship just because they evaded capture by our lousy governments. We cannot succumb to sad stories about how hard it is is Haiti because there are literally 10 Million+ more Haitians with 10 Million+ more sad stories. NOT OUR PROBLEM & WE CANNOT AFFORD TO SUPPORT HAITI!
Haitians have no love for the Bahamas or Bahamians. They have no desire to assimilate into society or help to build our country. They break every law imaginable, are treasonous and have created their own sub-culture which operates independently of the Bahamas.....They are like parasites on dog....all they do is take, take, take.
Haitians see our country as a big ATM machine that is to be used and abused in every and anyway possible.
NO HAITIAN will ever contemplate even for one second driving around in the Dominican Republic flying a Haitian flag.....They would be massacred IMMEDIATELY !
So why do we allow these leaches to take, take, take and use and abuse us?.....Then they want status kick us in the ass too?
HELL NO! How bloody STUPID are we?
Can Bahamians go to Haiti legally or illegally, squat on someones property and take jobs from Haitians? They will send you back to Bahamas packed in a tuna fish can!
The Bahamas IS B-R-O-K-E, our children are failing in education, our medical services are inadequate and 45,000 Bahamians are unemployed......What the hell are we doing even contemplating helping Haitians?.....We cannot even help ourselves!
Sign the petition and cause government to deal with this Haitian invasion......or teach your children Creole and pledge allegiance to the Haitian flag.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
My sentiments exactly .................... we have this sense of false security and psuedo-nationalism, but we are really playing with fire by not dealing with the illegal Haitian and other nationalities dilemma ...... we need the Roker plan to be reintroduced and enforced ............ no excuses. This is social and economic life or death for The Bahamas in the next TEN years.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Don't let the real ATM machine find personell.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
I really don't know anywhere else where squat means actually building up a whole illegal community.
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Comrade SP, words without long term solutions quickly lose meaning. Go back and read the many Tribune news stories archives and your round them up and lock them up until you deport all the illegal Haitians has been tried since the days of Sir Stafford Sands and Loftus Roker. Fast forward and since 2012 Minister Freddy has even been tongue-whipped for his immigration department's rounding up of illegals with using road blocks and raids. The Haitian roundups made for good media politics headlines back in Sir Stafford and Loftus's days and and now in 2014. One solution that only adds to the wide divide between Bahamalanders and Haitians is how eager are so many bloggers to post the most insensitive, hateful comments aimed more at further stigmatizing an entire Haitian population.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
take offense to the term 'roundup'
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
SP My God, those are some strong hateful words; to compare Haitians to parasite on a dog is a very demeaning and hateful thing to say. No wonder so many Bahamians of Haitian descent continue embracing their forefathers ancestry, instead of gravitating towards their place of birth’s; the resentment towards them doesn’t even end after their granted citizenship. Bahamians seem to want the offspring of Haitians to deny who their parents are, which would be a dishonor them and God as well.
As a Bahamian of Haitian decent I take great offense by such words use; my parents were both Haitians who sweat and toll to help build this country. My mother worked has a maid for well-respected church leader and helped raised his four beautiful children. My very home was built by mostly Haitians working for a Bahamian contractor; so was many homes, roads and commercial buildings throughout the Bahamas.
I agree that the continuous influx of migrants in this country is burdening the countries resources and I also agree that Haitians should try and work together to build their own country. However, until then, people will do just about anything to survive; risking their lives on the high seas to find opportunity in a country that despises them is one of them.
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
We do not care or want Haitians gravitating toward or helping us to build our country! Your parent's help is not needed or wanted! Please go back home!!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
yes one of the problems is that Bahamian live in their own little world. Got to realize around here that there is always someone willing to bust their ass more than you so no matter we're you are born , it doesn't grant privilege to sit on your ass and expect a dream job to float to your plate. Their will be competition.
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
@ Haitianboy....Comparing Haitians to parasites on a dog may be strong but not meant to be hurtful. Unfortunately the comparison suits the circumstances to a "T" and watering down the truth is in no ones best interest.
If as a Bahamian of Haitian decent you take great offense by such words, too dam bad for you.
How do you think we feel being invaded by Haitians, paying for and yet being deprived of proper education and medical care for our children, hearing your nasty sounding disgusting language everywhere and seeing you people flying Haitian flags in our country like you have conquered us?
Bahamians have always understood the plight of Haitians and embraced them. There are indeed many, many individuals of Haitian decent that CAME LEGALLY and made tremendous contributions to the development of our country. We acknowledge and welcome them.
However, do not confuse the issue here. The discussion and problem is not about Haitians that CAME LEGALLY and made a positive impact in our country. Our problem is with illegal Haitians and those legal Haitians that traffic in illegal Haitians.
Almost every country on planet earth has had, and used foreign immigrant migration in the building of their nations at some point or other and the Bahamas is in no different.
Bahamians of Haitian descent that want to continue embracing their forefathers ancestry should do all possible GO BACK to the proud land of their forefathers, fly their flags and get the fullest experience possible IN HAITI.......Not impose their Haitian forefathers ancestry on Bahamians.
We are also embracing our Bahamian forefathers ancestry and wish the same for our children!
Don't give me any crap about good work ethics because I AM ALSO AN EMPLOYER. Haitians have good work ethics as long as they are monitored. But as soon as the boss turns his head productivity literally stops, animated chatting is nonstop and cell phones are all ablaze.
BTC must really love Haitians because I've never seen a people with so much to talk about. I now understand that it is Haitian culture.
I am pleased that you understand and agree that the continuous influx of migrants into this country is burdening the countries resources, and I fully understand Haitian people will do just about anything to survive; risking their lives on the high seas to find opportunity in a country that despises them being one of them.
You need to understand that you and your kind are on notice.....WE THE INDIGENOUS PEOPLE OF THE BAHAMAS......will not sit back and allow you GOD dam Haitians to take over OUR COUNTRY.
The Dominicans obviously had no choice in dealing harshly with you Haitian parasites invading them, and the Bahamas government better stop talking bullshyt and deal with you Haitian invaders likewise before our country descends into a needless civil war which you and I are prepared to fight!
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
Well said SP!! Well said!!!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
every time the people get upset enough with government , the Hatian story comes out
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
Hubert who you think you were fooling cause even back in 2012 you must have known there is no country in the entire world that has over a quarter-of a-million legal and illegal Bahamians living in it? Comrades despite having to later admit he had NOT actually read the script of the Haitian Presidents speech, it did not prevent former Prime Minister Hubert Ingraham from taking what he had only heard and read from news reports, before rushing to face the media to support the "unannounced" official visit of Haiti's President, which the President used to hold a rally for over 6000 Haitian Nationals, calling for his people to vote as a "voting block." Many to this day believe it was far from some "unofficial visit?" Even more believe it was politically orchestrated ... very red shirts coincidentally .... just before the 2012 General Election bell would be rung? PM Hubert, there ain't even 10,000 Bahamian Nationals living abroad in all the countries of the world ... combined. You can't help but sense that just maybe it may have been the Haitian president's "unofficial' visiting that pulled the wheels off red shirts 2012 election campaign, even before it started rolling?
......///http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gU65Pd9gnu0
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
"there ain't even 10,000 Bahamian Nationals living abroad in all the countries of the world ... combined" fact check. You can also look at the OAS report after their auditing of the elections to determine what they meant by there were many Haitians gathered for rallies to beef the numbers. I think in that video all those Haitian flags were at a PLP event. and WTF the PM of Haiti telling expats how to vote here??? I hunch a secret agenda. Would make sense considering Bahamas supported the US CIA when they went down their to 'stabilize' and keep Aristeed.
TalRussell 10 years, 6 months ago
It will be left to the Comrade political historians and junkies to try and answer, if the outrage resulting from the Haitian president's "unofficial and unannounced " 2012 visit to rally his Haitian Nationals in the thousands to turn out to vote as a voting block, may have actually derailed the red shirts 2012 General Elections campaign wagon .... even before Papa was "forced by the constitution" to rung he bell?
.......//http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FxtZoGephHM
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
if Haitians were used for a party , that would mean they enhanced the numbers. and we all know who "won" .
DEDDIE 10 years, 6 months ago
I always tend to find the negro way of thinking to be so self destructive. Even the educated negro is lost in his own logic. Your masters did a remarkable job on your psyche.The average Caribbean black don't know who they are. You were thought to hate yourself and it is evident in these postings. Today's Haitians, Jamaicans, Bahamian,in fact, the majority of blacks in the new world shared the same African slave forts and ship holes but the venom in your writings doesn't display this. The plantation division is obvious and I am hoping to one day use this postings to educate my class of the negro mind set. Western blacks are still going through the middle passage. You all are still laying in your own filth but too dumb to recognize it. Until the middle passage end for all Negroes, it end for none.Slavery is alive and well. The overseers would be proud of their handy-work(your mind)200 years later. You hate yourself and the Haitian reminds you who you truly are. They still practice the customs of your forefathers and you hate them for it. Enough said.
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
What are you talking about??? This is not a history lesson on the triangular trade or a psychological assessment on the effects of slavery! This is illegal migrants breaking our laws then demanding certain actions be taken to aid them. Haitians can't practice this nonsense in their own country but yet they want to come here and do it??? No no no!!! Not on our watch!!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Sweety this is not panafricanism. Try telling that to the white countries, you know the folks who started a few world wars with each other.
( case of PLP rhetoric getting to deep) Bahamas is this big, Haiti is THIS BIG. Matter fact , Africa is ginormous , they could use all. btw we have Obeah, purer results to flyng in the air possessed i think , not that i really know.
We're not ashamed of our roots. We worrying about the tree.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
( that's another thing, we'd have to honor their chicken sacrifices under religious freedom protection like the states does )
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
SP & COBALT
Sad day…sad day indeed. I love how everyone is expressing themselves. Now I know me and my children though we are Bahamians by birth and have Bahamian citizenship will ABSOLUTELY NEVER BE WELCOME OR EMBRACE AS FULL PLEDGE BAHAMIANS. Bahamians travel and live all over the world, some have their babies in the US so they can have dual citizenship, but children born to Haitians in the Bahamas are to deny their parents heritage and are to depart the only country they have ever known because they are not welcome . SCANDALOUS and HYPOCRITICAL!!
You say you’re an employer? If you feel so strongly towards Haitians fire every single one of them! Why hire them in the first place, aren’t you compounding the problem? Your being hypocritical in your reply like so many Bahamians are in this so call “Christian Nation”. They say send the Haitians back, but keep the gardeners, maids and other domestic Haitians workers because those jobs are to menial for the Bahamian citizenry.
All of you who are hiding behind these anonymous profiles need to go on national TV and express your views and opinions instead of hiding behind them like cowards. Stop being two faced by hiring Haitians and working with them, then turn around and call them cockroaches and parasites. Grow a pair, be brave and put a face to those profiles; I want the world to see who you truly are.
SP please do me a favor and get together with your buddy Cobat, form some sort of rally and march with him and your followers either downtown to Parliament or to the Department of Labor. Demand that all Haitians and Bahamians of Haitian ancestry be sent back to Haiti because they are cockroaches and parasites.
I dare you to do so. Please reply because the world is watching! They want to see how “Christian” this country really is.
If I had a choice to be born anywhere else it sure wouldn’t have been here. If it wouldn’t have been so hard for me to relocate I would’ve done so a long time ago. I have a good job, home and a beautiful family, I didn’t get that job because of political or family connections; I got it through hard work perseverance. I put up with a lot of crap from my so call Bahamian brothers and sisters to get where I am today.
I am so glad by these comments; now I know how the majority of Bahamians feel. They may say they love you as a Christian brother, they will eat, sing, dance, drink and laugh with you, but secretly despise you.
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
You had to read these posts in order to realize that WE the Bahamian people don't want Haitians occupying our country??? The verbal abuse that you sustained while growing up wasn't transparent enough??? How misguided and misinformed are you??? And what makes you think that I would ever consider hiring a Haitian anyway??? I want qualified BAHAMIANS working for me.... not the adulterated off-springs of vagabonds who don't think enough of our country to respect our laws!!! Your name alone makes it clear where your loyalties lie. And for the record, we don't want y'all as maids, gardeners, construction workers, or any other type of domestic worker! We just want you GONE. These are jobs that generational Bahamians can fill! And who's hiding behind an anonymous profile??? For years I've made my position known on various talk shows aired in the Bahamas!! As a matter of fact, I just had to physically escort a Haitian male from the Fleming street clinic for gross misconduct!! In the wake, I was applauded by many fellow Bahamians who were either too nice, or too timid to act. If you knew true Bahamians you would know that there is nothing anonymous about us! Why don't YOU place a picture of yourself on your profile??? We want to see who YOU are!!! But be carful.... you're not just addressing an average Bahamian.... trust me. We need to have you AND your Haitian counterparts deported from our country! And yes we ARE a Christian nation unlike Haiti which continues to practice pagan religions such as voodoo and other forms of witch-craft! Why do you think God struck Haiti with such a debilitating, unprecedented, devastating earthquake??? How ironic is it that the Dominican Republic shares the exact same land mass as Haiti, yet much of their country went virtually unharmed during the earthquake. This is a clear and transparent message for you and your Haitian family to consider. And as far as you being born here.... you need to blame your Haitian parents for that!! They probably came here illegally just like the majority of Haitians!! Y'all Haitians really have a lot of nerves! Talking bout you DARE me!!! Who the hell are you!?!?!? You're nothing more than a salt-water Haitian posing as a Bahamian!!! Don't worry.... true Bahamian patriots are getting ready to take extreme measure to get rid of all y'all inbreeds!!
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
Colbat
Be careful? Of What? Of Who? You say you are on talk shows, so state type your real name, address and phone number for the world to see.
I applaud you Cobalt, You must think you are the Messiah or God the Father. You probably are one of the elite few who have couple of dollars in your pocket and a few in the bank. Also from the sounds of it you must be well connected politically otherwise you wouldn't have aired such a pompous attitude.
I'm suppose to be afraid now and bow down and kiss the behind of every single Bahamian because my parents were Haitians? Or I'm suppose to say thank you constantly to a bunch of idiots who think they are superior because they were fortunate to be born in a more progressive country. I must be the only one made out of dirt.The words you used was the words of an imbecile who thinks he is far superior to anyone else. But I have news for you all of us will taste death one day; and we will have to face our Creator. I pray that God doesn't judge you too harshly and I hope you now use the opportunity too really reflect on the absolute nonsense and cow manure that were type by you from your mindless brain.
Yes, I use the alias Haitian Boy...was I suppose to type Bahamian Boy? Would that have made you feel better? Your worse than the whites who discriminated against the blacks in the US.
All you are is a a magnified JACKASS who thinks too highly of himself. OOPs!! I'm so sorry Mr. Colbat, I'm so sorry I said that....please don't hurt me because your a so call natural Bahamian and I'm a Bahamian with Haitian heritage.
P.S. Remind me to bow down to you whenever you come out of hiding and reveal yourself. JACKASS!!!!
Cobalt 10 years, 6 months ago
In case you haven't realized yet, the words of a Haitian doesn't count for much in this country; nor anywhere else in the world for that matter. You just don't get it, do you??? No ones asking you to bow down, or display an attitude of servitude! No one cares about your rhetoric! All we care about is sending you and your Haitian family back where you came from! The only cow manure that came from my post was the word "Haitian." And that's exactly what Haiti is.... a giant cesspool sitting in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. We can smell y'all from here!! You talk all this nonsense because you feel safe in the Bahamas. But you won't talk like this in the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, or even that rats nest of a country called Haiti! That's because you know full well they'll dispatch you! But like I said before, we're about to take a page out of their book on how to deal with your kind! This is not a matter of superiority! This is a matter of protecting a sovereign nation that our forefathers built! And we as TRUE Bahamians won't stand idle while the likes of people like you attempt to take over! We Bahamians can't even fly our national flag carrier in comfort anymore simply because y'all Haitians have the cabin stink and smelly!! Your Haitian words are beyond impotent in this country! And just so you know..... the grave is full of people who weren't scared! I would call you a jackass.... but you're not even that! You're a Haitian!!
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
Just make Haiti a Bahamian territory. End of story.
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
@ haitianboy......I DO NOT HIRE HAITIANS OR HAITIAN BAHAMIANS!
I learned all about "good Haitian work ethics" several years ago after implementing quantity and time management surveys on job sites.
This is where I first discovered something wasn't adding up properly with production and went to great lengths to spy on all my staff to find the problem.
After several "sting operations" I was totally shocked at my findings!
Haitian employees that worked very well in my presence stopped working altogether, or they would take turns working so "something was seen as done" while the others carried on long conversations or talked on cell phones.
Secondly one Haitian would always be on the lookout to warn the others of my return.
I got rid of all Haitians, hired Bahamians and pay them properly and have no more problems. The key with Bahamians is TO PAY THEM PROPERLY!
I stopped hiring Bahamian Haitians like haitianboy's kind because these people are traitors to our country profiting from, and exasperating the illegal Haitian problem.
GOOD SHOOTING COBALT......Please sign the non politically aligned petition and pass onto your social media contacts.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
This "Haitian issue" really brings out the worse in true true Bahamians. What is so sad about this issue is that the PLP uses the legal and illegal Haitians and their children as pawns in the political balancing act at election time. I am definitely sure that the vast majority of "Haitian-Bahamian" voters vote PLP. Just look at the constituencies where Haitians make up a large voting bloc. A COB scientific survey of this issue would be instructive.
DEDDIE 10 years, 6 months ago
Do you ever wonder how genocide occurs. This Germans felt the same way about the Jews. The Hutus felt the same way about the Tutsis. All Cobalt and SP need now is a leader who share their sentiments and is prepared to carry out a final solution. They would probably wear the tag "gas chamber chief" proudly.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
and if this came to genocide who would be annihilated? US! that's what you have to consider. Haitians are making an unfair argument and taking advantage of what this small community is trying to manage. Didn't Haitians KILL massa, they have the guals to sort out their land. Bahamians are asking for a solution , the "let us in" story doesn't even work in the states so they need to quit trying to play on people's guilt. That's just how economies work. I'm seeing a people being taking advantage of and THE HAITIAN PRESIDENT came here to intermingle in our voting affairs!! wtf
DEDDIE 10 years, 6 months ago
Interesting fact from the US Census bureau and the World Bank indicate that approximately 60,000 Bahamians live in the US. I know at least 140 personally. Migration will always be with us. Humans are very poor at adapting, so they simply move to greener pastures. Abraham was an economic refugee in Egypt and Jesus was a political refugee in Egypt.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
"Migration will always be with us. Humans are very poor at adapting," Actually, I've only heard colonial white South Africans say that about the black South Africans they despised for a nature of unsustainable development. They let their cows graze out EVERYTHING and then just move on to devour elsewhere, they say. hmm. Bahamians are Forced out for reasons such as the matter at hand, and would like to come home now to meet opportunity for them. Majority know not to just show up in America and they abide by that. That's how you are able to get the stats you got , because they Did iT The Right Way. Prove you're Jesus throughout your life up until 18 and you get a temp stapled to your ID. until then , we have the reminder that it's customary for Haitians to hold each other ransom for money. Probably what's happening to us, bc we're practically paying Haiti to take the illegals back. yeh, gentrification is a tactic isn't it. We have refugee policy , other places have the space. Why not get all those other places to do what they can accommodate. There's Haitians in the states who still tell us we need to accept all immigrants , yet they are in the states doing better than any would here. This is bigger than us. Don't hate the player. Blacks of the world need a capital or they'll all have nothing right? Same logic. Save the capital.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
DEDDIE, please stop this pro-Haitian commentary that your fellow Haitian residents in The Bahamas want us to believe.......... we are not Germany, Rwanda etc. We have been welcoming to thousands of legal political and economic immigrants in the past ............. but we will not able to survive as a nation if we are not able to control the illegal immigration issue that we face since Independence. Just look at what the USA is facing now with child immigrants from Central America ........ do you support ten year olds coming here by the boatloads as well??????????? I support in principle what SP and Cobalt are saying. If you feel that The Bahamas does not welcome you ............... go back home to Haiti or go North like many others.
DEDDIE 10 years, 6 months ago
Sheeprunner, As a student of history I don't look at things in a myopic fashion. Several days ago I explain to my daughter and son who they descended from. They are descendants from the Seminole Indians who migrated from Florida to Red Bay Andros during the 16th century. I explain to them that they are also descendants from the Rolle slaves in Exuma but I also let them know that they have relatives throughout the Caribbean including Haiti. Although these relatives may be several generations remove I told them don't forget it. Not because your great, great great great... uncle's children live in a poorer state than you, that it gives you the right to despise them.Don't get me wrong I am not advocating an open door policy to Haiti, but advocating sensitivity to their plight.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
Well if you have such a high appreciation of History.... try and understand the Bahamian psyche and why we have such a historical mindset towards immigrants from Haiti and other parts of the Caribbean........ starting with the 1796 attempted Haitian coup in Nassau .................... and the Grants Town Riot against the West Indian police. Its not personal ......... its facts.
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
got to be honest, didn't sound like it. As a Seminole, that's exactly why we should be telling everyone to go to FL, in the process of getting Florida back. (they don't let their vote count since Bush anyway)
Please become a student of the future and don't forget that history always repeats itself. Tainos should have told Columbus to turn his boat around.
DEDDIE 10 years, 6 months ago
Sheeprunner.So you actually believe the average Bahamian psyche are affected by those particular events and not the plantation separation protocol for negroes to be suspicious of everything black including themselves. You can hear our dis-taste for blackness in the way we speak. "Your black self, your nappy head, he so black, all you could see is teeth".With regards to your 1796 excerpt, the Haitian revolution occurred between 1791-1804, so any coup would have been fermented by the local population who were attempted to imitate what was happening in Haiti. By the way, the negro population in the Bahamas celebrated their Haitian brothers during that period.
Bahamianpride 10 years, 6 months ago
This debate has gotten too personal. The problem is not personal. If u have a boat or Island there is only so many people that can fit before the thing goes to shit, the end. You cannot keep packing people on it, especially those sneaking on illegally. If the population of this country keeps growing it will become like Haiti. My point No more illegals of any nationality period. Deport everyone of the rock who is here illegal period. Shit deport some of my Bahamian relatives, the worthless ones along with the illegals. Take some of our criminals too and politicians, the rock is over crowded people, lets create some space.
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
SP & Colbat the Jackass.
Just like how Jacob was rename Israel, I now name Colbat, Colbat the Jackass.
So SP you think Bahamians don't do the same thing on the job? Bahamians steal, lie, kill and aren't reliable when it comes to job performance. Why do you think so many companies import their own workers for top positions; they simply don't trust Bahamians. If you look at all facets of this country you would realize that corruption is at the core of everything; that's why the US is spying and recording every single conversation. They're trying to protect their borders from scrupulous Bahamian nationals who engage in the illicit drug trade and human trafficking. Also look at how business is conducted in the government departments, everything gets done in an inefficient manner.
Also, take a look at the murder rate for over the past 5yrs. Bahamians are killing each other over foolishness such as drugs and women. If this murder rate continues this country will be on par in terms of crime with Jamaica.
It is no secret that Haitian children out perform their Bahamian classmates in the classrooms. My sons are the top performers at each of their schools.Bahamians feel threaten by something that is to big to stop. Haitian Bahamians are everywhere, government, schools, law enforcement, hotels and in the medical profession.
You guys need to just accept that fact, no stupid petition will ever stop the flow of migrants or stop Haitians from birthing more children here in the Bahamas. So please shut up and stop typing such nonsense and learn how to speak creole; in the years to come it will be necessary to conduct everyday business in this wonderful country called the Bahamas.
I reviewed that stupid petition that SP is promoting on this site and some of them are far fetch and totally ridiculous
killemwitdakno 10 years, 6 months ago
I gin call up Wycleff and T.I and ask them to preach to this. We're under siege and Haiti's government isn't doing a thing to stop it. Call up Obama to ask Canada to drain their banks less they do something to keep the getaways in. Isn't Haiti benefiting from PetroCaribe? That would also mean we've been paying partly to power Haiti and we can't afford our power. o lawd.
SP 10 years, 6 months ago
@haitianboy....You have finally admitted that you are 100% Haitian and 100% against Bahamians!
That is exactly the sum of the equation that will lead to failure with you Bahamian Haitians.
Climbing a mountain or taking a long journey begins with a single step. Your Haitian invasion didn't start today and won't be resolved tomorrow....But rest assured WE WILL NOT ALLOW YOU HAITIANS TO TAKE OVER OUR COUNTRY!
We indigenous Bahamians will NEVER REST until you Haitian invaders are properly dealt with one way or another and we will use any far fetched means deemed necessary to STOP THE HAITIAN INVASION OF THE BAHAMAS!!!
Now be a nice Haitian boy and sign the petition....This is WE country not yinna's.... you know it is the right thing to do.
http://www.gopetition.com/petitions/sto…
haitianboy 10 years, 6 months ago
SP or Cobalt the Jackass
Do I sound like a %100 Haitian to you? Since you think I'm not a Bahamian and will never be according to your lofty standards, then I guess I'm what you label me as.
Please give me your real names and contact numbers, I need them to sign you guys up for creole classes at the College of Bahamas. It would be beneficial to both of you to be bilingual for the near future; I will personally foot the college bill. It doesn't make sense fighting the inevitable.
Please don't waste your time on such a silly and inconceivable petition that has no traction; instead focus your time and energy on learning the creole language.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
This above post is the insidious problem with the so-called Haitian Bahamian. They will use us to progress from dirt poor to become educated and financially secured and then stick the pin in us just like they did to the French. We cannot trust them .......... we need them gone!!!!!!!
jeanjoseph 10 years, 5 months ago
I asked this question yesterday: What makes the Bahamas an exceptional land? What is the Bahamas' legacy? What has the Bahamas contributed in the History of mankind? Your leaders, what have they done to make the world better or to change the course of humanity? Who is a well-respected Bahamian in the World today? I can count on one hand everyone who is a famous Bahamian and everything they have accomplished is just for themselves.
I know you are going to crucify me but just a simple search will reveal you the Haitians deserve more respect from you than what they are getting from you. You do not even have a National identity. Other than Junkanoo, what is the Bahamian culture?
Reply when you have the answer and you can be furious all you want but that does not change the facts that your sens of patriotism and bahamian exceptionalism is baseless, idiotic and laughable at worse.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 5 months ago
The mere fact that you can communicate via the Tribune media in The Bahamas in English, after living here and getting a civilized foundation and not dying as a baby in the slums of Haiti or up in the mountain villages is commendable.............. but then I don't expect you to be grateful. Few of your ilk is ever grateful for what our country affords you miserable ingrates
thomas 10 years, 5 months ago
you...you are where you are today because of the BHAMAS. This was your ticket out of Haiti for whatever reason
jeanjoseph 10 years, 6 months ago
As a young man, I always tried not to limit myself. Nothing was ever handed to me. I worked hard, I refuse to accept anything as sufficient. I always try to change what I could change in myself.
If someone is prejudicial, racist or hypocritical, I believe I can only change myself and not trying to change that "prima donna" but also I will never let that person's own little baseless views affect the way I approach the world.
The world has changed quite a bit and many have realized they are no longer confined in their own little piece of land but they are part of the human family and consequently a citizen of the world. I laugh at the idea of some Bahamians entangled in their narrowed view of Bahamian Exceptional ism and false sense of Patriotism that they can't even describe the reason why the Bahamas is an exceptional nation. What makes the Bahamas exceptional? To what are you attributing your Patriotism? What makes you think the Bahamas is better than elsewhere? Is it the seashore?
Just as a child cannot chose who is mother is and no matter how abusive the mother could be, there remains one fact and it is the Child is that mother's child and will have some degree of love and respect for that mother even if there is a sea of disdain accompanied that unconditional love. I did not choose to be born in the Bahamas and no amount of abuse would change the fact that I live the Land where I was born even if I despise the nasty and inhuman character of some call themselves Bahamians.
I will never forget the advise of that Immigration Officer and her invitation to me to leave the Bahamas and explore the role. I did so and my exploration has taken me to the Dominican Republic where I have lived for two years, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, the Guyanas, Panama and the country of my blood: Haiti. I was befriended and I was a friend in each one of these countries, I never suffer any abuse whether physical, verbal or emotional.
My problem is with the bureaucracy of the Bahamian Government. The citizen of Bahamas can think whatsoever they want to and I am entitled to have my own opinion of them but no amount of hatred towards a group will change the fact that the system gas failed both the Bahamian Citizens and the Haitian Community in the Bahamas.
Again I am a strong proponent of Legal Immigration and I believe those who came here illegally should not be awarded any status for they have broken the law. However denying the children the most basic human rights are undeniably the most inhuman and un-christlike thing to do for a so-called Christian Nation.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 6 months ago
Good for you!!!!!!!!!! We Bahamians are happy that you have done well!!!!!! Now go back and contribute to your Haitian homeland........ there are millions who need a hand up. Follow the lead of Wyclef & others
jeanjoseph 10 years, 5 months ago
I asked this question yesterday: What makes the Bahamas an exceptional land? What is the Bahamas' legacy? What has the Bahamas contributed in the History of mankind? Your leaders, what have they done to make the world better or to change the course of humanity? Who is a well-respected Bahamian in the World today? I can count on one hand everyone who is a famous Bahamian and everything they have accomplished is just for themselves.
I know you are going to crucify me but just a simple search will reveal you the Haitians deserve more respect from you than what they are getting from you. You do not even have a National identity. Other than Junkanoo, what is the Bahamian culture?
Reply when you have the answer and you can be furious all you want but that does not change the facts that your sens of patriotism and bahamian exceptionalism is baseless, idiotic and laughable at worse.
John 10 years, 5 months ago
SAD TO SAY that when the New World Order (NWO) kicks in all of us are going to be on the same level: Haitians, Jamaicans, Bahamians, Africans, Black Americans, Black Europeans and Poor White People. There will only be two classes of people: The Elite and The Working Class. The middle class will be totally eliminated completely and it will be a miracle if any Black person will be classified as an elitist. They did not want us then and they will surely not be wanting us now. The Haitian problem is not an easy one to solve and it is not one that rattles nerves and excites emotions. They (Haitians) leave their country looking for opportunity and a chance to better themselves, just as Christopher Columbus did many years ago, and just as the white man did when he went to America and killed off most of the Indians and brought slaves from Africa to tend his crops and feed his cattle. We Bahamians, like the American Indian, feel our land is under siege and our livelihood and our lives are under threat. Maybe what we need to do is put pressure on the US and the UN to release more of the billions of dollars in aid it is withholding from Haiti so that the country can rebuild and get back on its economic feet. One way to do that is when they pass in Bahamian waters trying to get to the US, give them food and clean water and send them on their way. Many Haitians understand that the Bahamas is too small to accommodate them and we cannot continue to allow them to come here and breed unchecked. But for them it is also a sad case of being between a rock and a hard place. Go and google New World Order and see what plans they have for us in the very near future.
haitianboy 10 years, 5 months ago
I agree with you John, this country is too small to accommodate the influx of Haitians. I also can empathize with Bahamians, they are afraid for this country to lose it's identity and become a creole speaking nation.
There must be an amendment to the current immigration laws, but the government is afraid to do so because of backlash form the increasing large legal Haitian community. Like I said before there are a number of persons employed in government who are engaging in the illicit practice of human trafficking for financial gain.
What I won't accept is persons such as SP and Cobalt comparing my ancestors to animals and making derogatory remarks towards them. Haitians are people and should not be treated as or compared to animals or insects.
sheeprunner12 10 years, 5 months ago
I agree ........... we Bahamians were used for cheap labour to build Miami in the late 1890s. Thats why so many Bahamians have settled in South Florida. We are all a part of the wider Caribbean diaspora .......... SMT. Hang in there brother man!!!!!!!!!!!
SP 10 years, 5 months ago
haitianboy.......Accept or refuse to accept whatever floats your boat. If it walks like a duck and quacks like a duck, it must be a duck....Can't change that!
I and 1000's more like me will do whatever is necessary to protect my country for my children and future generations of Bahamians. I will not be among those trying to justify to my children or grandchildren how we sat by like idiots watching the PLP and FNM do nothing as we lost their country to Haitians.
That said.....I have several Haitian and Bahamian-Haitian friends, and I make no secret of my position on illegal Haitians, and treasonous Bahamian-Haitians that are ruining this country for all of us.
I will do everything in my power rid MY COUNTRY of these scum. If anyone has a problem with my stand of protecting my children's birthright too bad and too sad for you!
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