Writing revolutions:1 From Haiti to MIT to Palestine through the lenses of linguistics and history for decolonization and liberation

Abstract

In this reflexive essay, I explore, through historical and linguistic lenses, the similarities between the freedom struggles of Haitians and Palestinians. One of my goals is to uncover certain pervasive mechanisms of oppression and resistance. As I do so, I reflect on my personal and professional journey as a Haitian scholar–activist at MIT, highlighting the political repression I have faced after proposing an elective “Special Topics” seminar on language and linguistics for decolonization and liberation in Haiti, Palestine and Israel. Employing distinct yet complementary analytical approaches, I dissect the complex interplay between language and history in the Haitian and Palestinian struggles. By integrating historical perspectives with linguistic analysis, I illustrate how these elements collectively contribute to forging paths toward decolonization and liberation, at both the individual and collective levels.