Dew breaker

The "dew breaker" is a term that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in the context of the Haitian diaspora and the experiences of Haitian people.

The term "dew breaker" refers to a specific type of hair style that was popular among Haitian women, particularly in the rural areas, during the 19th and early 20th centuries. The style involved breaking the hair into small sections and then twisting or braiding it, often using a combination of hair and fabric to create a decorative effect.

However, the term "dew breaker" has also taken on a more sinister connotation in recent years, particularly in the context of the Haitian diaspora. In this context, the term is often used to describe the brutal and violent treatment of Haitian people, particularly women and children, during the Duvalier regime (1957-1986) and other periods of Haitian history.

The term is often associated with the use of torture, including the use of hot irons or "dew breakers" to burn and scar the skin of victims. This practice was used to punish and intimidate people who were perceived as threats to the regime or who were suspected of being involved in political opposition.

The term "dew breaker" has also been used as a metaphor for the trauma and suffering that many Haitian people have experienced, particularly during times of political instability and violence. It is often used to describe the ways in which Haitian people have been forced to endure and survive in the face of extreme hardship and violence.

In recent years, the term "dew breaker" has gained international attention, particularly through the work of Haitian-American author Edwidge Danticat, who has written extensively about the experiences of Haitian people and the impact of trauma and violence on their lives.