Cap-Haitien, a city deep in history and natural beauty, sits along Haiti’s northern coast. Its surroundings vividly capture the narratives and events that shape its people, me included. Located among green mountains and clear lakes of blue and green lakes, the city’s stunning setting embodies a positive blend of natural elements that have long sustained local communities. The streets pulse with vibrant energy from daily life, forming an artwork reflecting the hard work and creativity of its residents. To me, these familiar sights and sounds are more than just scenery, they form the rock of my identity and reinforce my sense of belonging.
Cap-Haitien offers more than just stunning visuals, it serves as a historical treasure, resonating with the enduring legacy of the Haitian Revolution. Citadelle Laferrière towers majestically as a powerful symbol of Haiti’s struggle for freedom and sovereignty. Constructed under Henri Christophe’s leadership, this iconic fortress embodies the unwavering spirit of the Haitian people and stands as a constant reminder of our shared pursuit toward self-determination. As one explores these historic sites, they can feel both the profound impact of history and admire the courage that shaped a new direction forward. These experiences deeply influence Cap-Haitien’s residents in terms of their cultural identity, values, and aspirations.
I agree with Barbara Kingsolver’s belief that wildness is essential because it connects us to the world in ways that go beyond human made settings and agendas. She suggests that natural spaces help us “think straight, remember, and properly invent,” highlighting how nature can provide clarity and inspire creativity. Interacting with wilderness allows individuals to experience a timeless landscape governed by natural rhythms rather than human schedules, highlights the importance of making wise choices for future generations. Also, she points out the losses associated with urbanization, many children may never grasp fundamental aspects of nature such as understanding “a flower is a plant’s way of making love” or knowing where their food truly comes from.
City dwellers can form a connection with the earth and their history, though in ways distinct from those living in rural or natural areas. Urban settings are dominated by steel, pavement, and man-made structures, still offer parks, gardens, and nature reserves that provide glimpses of the natural world. These green spaces act as vital sanctuaries where individuals can escape city life’s chaos to reflect and reconnect with nature. While these locations may lack wilderness, they deliver moments of peace that remind people of nature’s beauty, fostering an appreciation for the planet while highlighting our role within its broader story. Urban residents can tie through community gardening environmental initiatives or simply observing persistent rhythms like seasonal changes bird migrations amid cityscapes allowing them meaningful links back into shared human heritage despite being surrounded mostly architecture instead letting invaluable experiences remain intact despite any shifts happening externally over time.
Thanks for your post, Karlens. I love your sentiment of how a place can shape its people: “Its surroundings vividly capture the narratives and events that shape its people, me included.” I think this is hugely important to remember when we’re discussing the benefits of ecofeminsim. Whereas instrumentalism takes the view of “how can the environment serve us,” we should be considering how the environment has made us who we are and how we can serve the environment. Thanks for sharing about your home.
I love how you connected the natural beauty of places like Cap-Haitien with a sense of history and personal identity. It resonates with me. I’ve been to Haiti a couple of times with family, and every time I visit, I’m reminded of how the landscape and history shape the people there. The Citadelle Laferrière is especially powerful—it’s hard not to feel the weight of Haiti’s past and the strength of its people when you’re standing there. I think Kingsolver’s point about how wild spaces give us clarity speaks of places like Cap-Haitien. The combination of nature and history creates this strong sense of connection and belonging that you can’t quite put into words but feel.