Author: Opastaff
Haitian singer and songwriter Zile, formerly known as Anie Alerte, has officially released her highly anticipated debut album Vwayaj. This deeply personal and emotionally rich project marks a new era in her creative journey and signals her commitment to starting fresh, on her own terms. https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL_9PoaFN8a-RYNwzKEovtPQW7XT3z9XIK Available now on all major streaming platforms, Vwayaj is more than just a debut album. It is a powerful declaration of freedom and a symbol of survival following years of personal and professional challenges. Vwayaj (meaning “journey” in Haitian Creole) delivers exactly what the title promises. The 13-track album walks listeners through heartbreak, betrayal,…
When most people think about applying for a green card in the United States, they assume you need someone to sponsor you, either a family member, an employer, or a spouse. And in most cases, that’s true. But what many don’t know is that there are certain pathways that allow an individual to self-petition for a green card. In other words, yes, you can apply for a green card by yourself without a sponsor, but it’s not easy. What Is a Self-Petition? A self-petition means you file for permanent residency on your own behalf, without anyone else signing on as…
Sean “Diddy” Combs, one of hip-hop’s most powerful and influential figures, was arrested on March 25, 2025, in Miami, Florida, following a federal investigation that had been quietly building behind the scenes for over a year. The arrest came after Homeland Security agents executed coordinated raids on two of Combs’ properties in Los Angeles and Miami, seizing electronic devices, documents, and surveillance footage. These raids were part of a broader criminal probe into allegations of sex trafficking, coercion, drug distribution, and racketeering linked to Combs and his inner circle. The charges stem largely from a wave of civil lawsuits filed…
Apparently, being the most followed man on TikTok doesn’t guarantee immunity from U.S. immigration enforcement. Khabane “Khaby” Lame, the Senegalese-born Italian social media star known for his silent reactions and viral skits, was detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) after overstaying his visa during a visit to Las Vegas. It’s yet another reminder that in today’s immigration climate, fame offers little protection. In fact, it might make you a bigger target. Khaby arrived in the United States on April 30 and, like many European visitors, likely entered on a short-term visa or ESTA waiver. However, by early June,…
Ghanaian music sensation Wendy Shay has released a powerful remix of her hit single “Too Late,” now titled “Too Late (2.0),” and it’s already turning heads across the continent. Released on May 30, 2025, through Rufftown Records under an exclusive ONErpm license, the song runs a tight 3 minutes and 13 seconds, packed with rhythm, melody, and undeniable star power. The remix features a diverse and talented lineup of female artists from across the African diaspora. Nigerian singer Guchi, Tanzanian star Phina, and Haiti’s own Bedjine each bring their own flavor to the track, making it a celebration of African…
In a move that surprises absolutely no one, Donald Trump has returned to one of his favorite pastimes, banning immigrants. As of June 9, 2025, Trump has reinstated a sweeping travel ban targeting 19 countries, with Haiti proudly making the list once again. Apparently, visa overstay rates and “national security” are the new buzzwords for justifying blanket discrimination. This isn’t just about barring entry for tourists. The order slams the door shut on just about everyone, students, workers, families, unless you’re lucky enough to already have a green card or a valid visa issued before the ban. If you’re a…
Hervé Laplante, a well-known figure in Haitian media, was recently detained by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement in Florida. The longtime journalist and cultural commentator, widely known as “Laplanta,” was taken into ICE custody around May 28, 2025. He is currently being held at the Baker County Detention Center as his case undergoes standard immigration review. While there has been widespread speculation surrounding the reason for his detention and possible deportation proceedings, no official cause has been publicly confirmed. As it stands, the exact reason for his detainment remains unknown, and anything beyond that is conjecture. What has fueled much…
The Catholic Church has entered a new era with the election of Pope Leo XIV, born Robert Francis Prevost, the first American Pope and the first with direct Haitian ancestry. Born in Chicago, Illinois, in 1955, he is the son of Louis Marius Prevost and Mildred Martínez. His mother’s father, Joseph Martinez, was born in Haiti and later settled in New Orleans, bringing with him a rich blend of Haitian and Creole culture. This historic moment is being celebrated by Haitians around the world. From Port-au-Prince to Florida and New York, communities are calling it a breakthrough, not only for…
The second official trailer for the long-awaited Grand Theft Auto VI has fans buzzing, not only for its cinematic visuals and sprawling Vice City setting but also for its surprising musical choices. Among them is a standout inclusion that has taken the Haitian community by storm: Zenglen’s hit song “Child Support” plays prominently in a pivotal scene, marking a powerful moment of cultural representation in one of the most anticipated video games of the decade. As the trailer unfolds, “Child Support” can be heard as the main character, Jason Duval, speeds through the streets of a fictionalized Florida. The music…
Well, it finally happened. After years of criminalizing immigrants, separating families, and deporting people without legal authority, including actual U.S. citizens, Donald J. Trump has finally decided to go after the real criminals: the heavily armed Haitian gangs who’ve turned Port-au-Prince into a battlefield. Yes, he’s now reportedly moving to officially designate these gangs as terrorists. But in true Trump fashion, it’s a hit and miss. Because even while acknowledging that Haiti is engulfed in gang-led chaos, complete with kidnappings, rapes, mass killings, and arson, Trump remains fully committed to sending Haitians back. Back into the hands of the very…