Haiti Deforestation Crisis: Why I'm Committed to Helping

In this op-ed, designer Azede Jean-Pierre explores common misconceptions about Haiti and the best ways to reverse the country's deforestation crisis.

I consider Haiti the Black Panther party of the world: courageous, militant, victoriously independent, and ostracized because of it. Haiti has been taken advantaged of and exploited for centuries — and yet because of its magnificent and triumphant history, it is a country of proud citizens. Haiti is resilient in the face of natural disasters, poverty and tragedy; and as a result of this very obvious rift between its current circumstances and its pride, it is also deeply misunderstood.

Haiti used to be considered the pearl of the Caribbean, producing most of the world's sugar and coffee. Now, 80% of the people live below the poverty line and 51% in abject poverty. Nonetheless, it has serene natural beauty and is deeply rooted in rich culture. I want very much to do my part to help Haiti move in the right direction and become self-sustaining. That said, I believe Haiti needs more than handouts or charity; it needs partners that are willing to help the country help itself. That is why I was on the host committee for "Haiti Takes Root," an Art Auction to raise funds to help reverse deforestation in Haiti at the Sotheby on May 5. I believe Sean Penn's JPHRO organization is one such partner. The Relief Organization has been in Haiti for the past seven years and so far, it's impacted 4,000 students and relocated 60,000 Haitians after the earthquake. Now, it is focusing on reforestation.

In recent months, I have been consumed by my need to do something with a greater purpose. I have been traveling to Haiti and have a few projects in the pipeline to do my part to reduce poverty and promote long term sustainable growth. We are happy to be designing uniforms for Haitian students and we are also designing a collection inspired by the people of Haiti and producing it in the country to create jobs. We are filming a few projects including a campaign and a short film and so much more. I also look forward to continue to work with JPHRO, The Clinton Foundation, The Haitian government and so many enthusiastic Haitians on ways to accelerate progress.

As the United States government is reportedly digging for evidence of crimes by Haitian immigrants, it's more important than ever to establish a new narrative and perspective around our beloved Haiti. Read on for an exclusive photo diary from the "Haiti Takes Root" auction for my beautiful country.