H.S.A.'s Events page is used to share our upcoming events as well as those that may be of interest to our members. If you wish to have your event included here, please contact us with the details.
Online Film Screening – Douvan Jou Ka Leve (The Sun Will Rise) (Mar 20, 2026)
Film Konbit Kolektif – Spring 2026 Series
The Film Konbit Kolektif, a collaborative effort of the Haitian Studies Association (HSA) with CUNY Haitian Studies Institute (HSI) at Brooklyn College, presents the Spring 2026 Film Series which features short and feature films on Women and Women’s Health:
- Douvan Jou Ka Leve (The Sun Will Rise) by Gessica Généus on March 20th 1PM EST
- Four Short Films by Al’Ikens Plancher on April 24th 1PM EST
- Ludi by Edson Jean on May 8th 1PM EST
Douvan Jou Ka Leve (The Sun Will Rise)
by Gessica Généus
2017 (52 minutes)
Date & Time: Friday, March 20, 2026 at 1 p.m. EST/12 p.m. CT/ 10 a.m. PST
This intimate documentary by filmmaker Gessica Généus tackles the complex issue of mental health illness in Haitian society. Using her mother’s bipolar disorder, Généus explores what she refers to as an “illness of the soul” to examine how personal trauma is intertwined with centuries of cultural and religious colonization in Haiti. The film blends poetic narration with intimate footage in a way that invites viewers to address the issue of mental illness with compassion, care and understanding.
Yolette Williams, CEO of The Haitian American Alliance of New York (HAA), will join us after the film for a discussion with moderator Jaïra Placide (CUNY Haitian Studies Institute at Brooklyn College). A Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Licensed Psychotherapist, and Board-Certified Neurofeedback Specialist, Ms. Williams co-led annual medical and mental health missions to Haiti, including trauma counseling and training for professionals after the 2010 earthquake. The conversation will center on how mental health illness impacts Haitians and Haitian diasporic women in particular.
The film can be purchased or rented here.
A submission form should appear above this line. If nothing appears, please contact us for troubleshooting.