Ep 10. Little Haiti

In season 2 episode 10 of Bare Feet With Mickela Mallozzi, the host travels to Little Haiti, a vibrant community located in the heart of Miami, Florida. Mickela starts by meeting with Jan Mapou, a Haitian folklorist and activist who gives her a background on the history of the neighborhood and its rich culture.

Mickela then heads to the Caribbean Marketplace, a hub of Haitian arts and crafts, where she meets with local artists who teach her how to make traditional Haitian instruments. She later joins a group of Haitian dancers for a lively performance, learning some of the intricate steps and movements of Haitian folk dance.

Next, Mickela visits a local restaurant to discover the flavors and spices of Haitian cuisine. She meets with the chef and owner, who shows her how to make some signature dishes like griot (fried pork), plantains, and pikliz (a spicy slaw).

The episode takes a more serious turn as Mickela visits the Little Haiti Cultural Complex, an arts and cultural center that aims to preserve and promote the history and culture of the Haitian community. She meets with Gepsie Metellus, who runs the complex, to discuss the challenges facing the community and the importance of maintaining cultural identity in the face of gentrification.

Finally, Mickela visits the colorful murals of the Wynwood Arts District, where she has a conversation with two Haitian-American artists about their art and how it reflects their heritage and identity.

Throughout the episode, Mickela celebrates the vibrant, dynamic culture of Little Haiti, and highlights the struggles facing this historic community. Through lively dance performances, delicious food, and engaging conversations with local artists and activists, she shows how art, culture, and community can come together to create a powerful sense of belonging and identity.