Council Member Farah Louis on Sept. 10 proposed three resolutions intend to recognize the cultural impact of reggaeton, commemorate the legacy of Wyclef Jean, and call for the Protection of Temporary Protected Status for Haitian Immigrants.
“The introduction of the three resolutions speaks to the importance of protecting our people, honoring our culture, and preserving the communities we call home,” said Louis.
The proposed measures are Resolution 624, Resolution 625, and Resolution 626. The aim of resolution 624 is to annually identify Oct. 17 as Wyclef Jean Day in the City of New York to honor his musical and philanthropic contributions. The motion notes that “Wyclef is a widely recognized artist and proud son of Haiti whose impact resonates deeply in New York City and beyond.”
Wyclef Jean is a globally known artist who began his music career in the late 1980s as a member of the hip-hop group that eventually became the Fugees, alongside Lauryn Hill and Pras.
The group released two studio albums, and the second album became one of the best-selling and influential records in hip-hop history. Later, Jean launched a successful solo music career that spans more than three decades and includes work as a rapper, singer, songwriter, guitarist, producer, and composer, with significant contributions to both the Fugees and numerous other artists.
Jean’s philanthropic work was well known. He started Yéle Haiti Foundation, a charitable organization established in 2001 to provide poverty relief, education, and disaster assistance in Haiti.
Resolution 625 is intended to declare October as Reggaeton Heritage Month in the City of New York. The objective is to distinguish reggaeton as a genre of Afro-Caribbean and Latin American music, to honor the legacy that NYC plays in its impact in the Caribbean community and culture.
Reggaeton is a famous style of dance and music that spins hip-hop, reggae, and Latin Caribbean rhythms. It is extremely popular in the Panamanian community. Currently, Bad Bunny is a major reggaeton artist, while his music is also mixed with Latin trap and other genres.
Resolution 626 inquires the U.S. congress and the president to pass and sign Senate Bill S. 4814 to re-designate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS). The bill was supported by Senate Democratic Leader Charles E. Schumer and other Democratic senators. If enacted, it will enable Haitian immigrants to continue to stay in the U.S instead of being deported back to Haiti. The country is currently facing a humanitarian crisis and is not safe due to gang violence and kidnapping.
“Haiti is facing a profound humanitarian and security crisis, and sending Haitian families back into these conditions is unconscionable,” Louis said.
Schumer has also called for the continuation of TPS protections for Haitians. In remarks urging the Senate to support legislation extending TPS, Schumer said: “The Trump administration’s decision to cancel Temporary Protected Status for Haitians is cruel and counterproductive, especially as Haiti remains unstable and unsafe. Haitians living in the United States under TPS are legally working, paying taxes, and greatly boosting the state economy to the tune of $1.1 billion per year. I’m grateful to Council Member Farah Louis for her leadership in supporting my legislation to restore TPS for Haitians, and I urge Senate Republicans to join me in passing this bill ASAP.”
Schumer emphasized New York’s particular connection to the Haitian community and his commitment to protecting Haitian New Yorkers.
Louis represents the 45th Council District’s communities of Brooklyn, which encompass Flatbush, East Flatbush, Midwood, Flatlands, Kensington, Marine Park, and Canarsie.
Louis has been a pillar in the community, having secured over $170 million in capital investments and leading a push that established a specialized maternal reproductive healthcare facility in Flatbush Avenue. In addition to being extremely instrumental in the completion of the Shirley Chisholm Recreation Center in Brooklyn.
Louis emphasizes the legislation seeks to recognize the profound cultural contributions of the Caribbean diaspora and standing up for immigrants.
“Protecting our communities and celebrating our culture go hand in hand. I am proud to bring these resolutions before the Council and continue using my platform to uplift the people, histories, and traditions that make New York City the global city it is.” said Louis.
According to the New York City Council meeting agenda, Resolution 624, Resolution 625, and Resolution 626 were also sponsored by Council Member Mercedes Narcisse, Rita C. Joseph, Selvena N. Brooks-Powers, and other members.