What better way to close Haitian Heritage Month and enter Caribbean Heritage Month and Pride Month than at the intersection of two repressively homophobic cultures often disconnected or hidden due to fear of being oneself? A real cause for celebration is how one Caribbean creator is challenging traditionalism with cultural roots, providing refuge and acceptance right in the vibrant city of Miami.
Images courtesy of Akia Dorsainvil.
Originally from Lake Worth, Florida, Akia Dorsainvil found his true self in the warm embrace of Miami. Miami became the space where he could fully develop and embrace his identity, a freedom he couldn't experience in the small city at the heart of Palm Beach County. With its diverse diaspora and picturesque beaches, Miami quickly became his sweet home. As Akia boldly puts it, "Miami just scooped me up and adopted me."
Akia proudly identifies as "that b*tch," embodying the fusion of an African American mom and a Haitian dad in his cultural heritage. Despite the historical divisions between Haitians and Jamaicans within the Black Diaspora, his parents defied the odds and found love. Which plays a huge role in his unique perspective on queerness deeply influenced by his one-of-a-kind heritage.
Q: Let’s Talk Intersectionality, share with us the intersection of your Caribbean roots and queer identity, if any?
Akia: "I think everything in the Caribbean is kind of queer quoted because Africanist is queer quoted but has the PR of being the most dangerous places"
The proclamation that Africanist culture is inherently queer at its core is a challenging of the status quo, redefining what it means to stay true to our traditions. And that tradition starts with our spirituality. Despite being persecuted and widely misunderstood religion by the Haitian diaspora, Haitian Vodou, rooted in the ancient tradition of Vodun, stands as a folk religion that inherently embraces diversity and inclusivity, making it a safe haven for queer individuals of all orientations and gender expressions. Within this vibrant spiritual practice, love and acceptance prevail, creating a welcoming environment for all.
"Its not by design that I am a queer Haitian"
Driven by the need to reclaim a narrative that seeks to erase the existence of queer individuals, emerged Masisi, Miami's unique nightlife experience for LGBTQIA and questioning folx of the Caribbean diaspora. Celebrating music, fun, and life, Masisi has become a game-changer within our community. Despite its original derogatory connotation, Masisi has been reappropriated to revive pride among attendees, fostering self-affirmation amidst the vibrant sounds surrounding them.
"The Black Queer Caribbean Diaspora of Miami" image courtesy of Akia Dorsainvil
Driven by the need to reclaim a narrative that seeks to erase the existence of queer individuals, Masisi stands as a beacon of celebration for diasporic youth, artists, and creatives delving into Black history within the vibrant diaspora. Bridging cultural divides, Masisi proudly embraces queerness, spreading a message of acceptance and unity.
Through Masisi's transformative experience in the Miami cultural scene, Akia has redefined the concept of entertainment for the Caribbean diaspora, showcasing the true essence of embracing one's authentic self and celebrating diversity within the community. Not only that, the experience welcomes the idiomatic expression of cupid's bow, opens the night up to love. When we say love is in the air, Akia share's the moment he knew Masisi was special. The night he witnessed two lovers say yes to ever after on the floors of his party. Picture wedding bells ringing in a space you built - the top nightlife scene celebrating and honoring the individuality of Caribbean people with queer identities.
As DJ Pressure Point, cultural worker, programmer, and transdisciplinary artist, Akia's creative journey has exceeded all expectations, leveraging his love for music and events to connect with the community and ignite movement. He views being a DJ as a means to celebrate individuality and give back to the community, encouraging others to find spaces where they can be celebrated and embrace their genuine selves.
In his advocacy for uniting the LBTQIA+ Caribbean community, Akia stresses the importance of finding a place where you truly belong, surrounded by people who see and accept you for who you are, rather than conforming to external expectations. His queerness has empowered him to build and own his life experiences, a message that resonates deeply within the community.
“My queerness has taught me that I am the architect of my own life experience”-- Akia Dorsainvil
For those embarking on unconventional creative journeys, Akia offers words of wisdom around believing in your unique voice and embrace your distinctive approach. Being an artist requires transforming what you have into something remarkable, even with limited resources. It's about having faith in your vision and yourself, regardless of how different it may seem.
Now let's have some fun and dig into Akia's top music picks that reflect his diverse taste, from the energetic vibes of Mr. Vegas' "Pull Up" to the soulful melodies of D'Angelo. When he needs a boost, JT's "Sideways" and "OK" set the tone for positive energy and forward movement. He vibes out to #RICHAXXHAITIAN produced by our very own Haitian -Canadian producer KAYTRANADA,, performed by Mach-Hommy.
We asked Akia to describe his music taste in emoji’s and his journey through sound is captured by: 🤮😈🧙♀️🧜♀️
Embracing and promoting queer Caribbean spaces in Miami, Akia's influence is reshaping the narrative and celebrating the beauty of diverse identities. Together, let's spark a revolution in Miami, challenging societal norms and amplifying the voices of those often silenced. It's time to make waves and celebrate the rich tapestry of diversity within our community!
Celebrating Queer Haitian and Caribbean voices, Happy pride month and Caribbean Heritage Month.
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