The Haitian Roundtable

In Conversation With Karine Jean-Pierre

On Monday, November 3rd, HRT co-sponsored an event at BRIC Arts Media featuring former White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre discussing her new book “Independent: A Look Inside a Broken White House, Outside the Party Lines.”

Guided by the thoughtful moderation of CBS Mornings’ Vladimir Duthiers, the discussion was honest, inspiring, and deeply resonant — a celebration of leadership, resilience, and Haitian excellence.

HRT would like to extend our thanks to our event partners: Haiti Cultural Exchange, Little Haiti BK, Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, NYC Council Member Farah Louis, and the New York City Council Brooklyn Delegation. A very special thanks to our co-sponsor, BRIC Arts Media, for making this event possible and so successful!

We are delighted to share photos from the event, which you can find here: https://fromsmash.com/vtQ3x7kXRb-et

1804 List Ceremony

Many thanks for joining us at the 1804 List Induction Ceremony & Dinner Reception, and congratulations to our phenomenal 2025 inductees. We were so delighted to celebrate with you the extraordinary achievements of 19 Haitian-Americans who are having an impact in this country. There is no doubt that the Haitian flag was flying proudly over Manhattan on June 7.

This event was made possible by the generosity of our 1804 List sponsors. Enjoy the official 1804 List photos taken by photographer David Paul. Your support and encouragement mean the world to us, so please follow us on social media for information regarding upcoming events and programs.

Lights, Camera, Aksyon!

The Haitian Roundtable visited Los Angeles on November 14, 2024 to launch a new “Haitians In Hollywood” program as part of our ongoing mission to redefine the narrative on Haitian excellence.

Movers and shakers across the film and entertainment industry joined members of the Haitian Roundtable board to foster community on the West Coast and address the need for scripts, creative content and productions where Haitian culture is seen, valued and respected.

A special thank-you to our Event Co-Chairs — Esdra Lamy of WarnerBros Discovery; Executive Producer Dominique Telson; and Media Executive Joel Vilmenay — for their unwavering support of HRT as past 1804 List inductees and industry innovators.

The inaugural “Haitians In Hollywood” soirée was a night to remember, and we deeply appreciate all guests at our special milestone event!

[Photo credit: Will Utley]

Our Mission

The Haitian Roundtable (“HRT”), founded in 2008, is a not-for-profit organization of Haitian-American professionals committed to civic engagement and strategic initiatives benefiting the Haitian community. The organization seeks to heighten awareness of Haitians as an important constituency among thought leaders and newsmakers, policymakers and institutions through partnerships, programs and events recognizing Haitian excellence. HRT is committed to working collaboratively with the goal of redefining the narrative about Haiti and Haitians. We are guided by our Motto: As Haitians, We Are The Keepers of Our Legacy.

The 1804 List of Haitian-American Changemakers and Ones to Watch

Haitian History Is Black History

During February, the Haitian Roundtable commemorates Black History Month by celebrating Haitian independence, history and culture.

For 2021, we honor three contemporary Haitian heroes: Humanitarian Marguerite Erasme Lathan, NYC Council Member Farah N. Louis and Elie Mystal, Justice Correspondent for The Nation magazine.

Haiti Dialogue Series

HRT hosts the Haiti Dialogue Series, which serves as a forum to discuss current and relevant topics that impact the Haitian community. The Dialogue Series brings together distinguished thought leaders and accomplished practitioners for candid conversation on a variety of important issues.

Kreyol Connection

HRT frequently sponsors Kreyol Connection. These networking receptions offer opportunities for professionals to celebrate Haitian culture after work, as they build lasting social bonds. The events are held at elegant venues throughout New York City and co-hosted by various high profile Haitian-Americans.