Overview:
On June 19, 2026, fans gathered at Juneteenth picnics and outdoor watch parties across Brooklyn to cheer on Haiti during their World Cup match against Brazil. Hosted by the Haiti Cultural Exchange, council member Chi Osse, and Rooftop Films, the events drew a stylish crowd whose outfits reflected Caribbean pride, Haitian heritage, and the weight of the historic day.
On June 19, 2026, Haiti played Brazil and Brooklyn showed up dressed for it.
The Haiti Cultural Exchange, council member Chi Osse, and Rooftop Films hosted an outdoor watch party born out of a collaboration with the Brooklyn-based clothing label Maison Demar founded by Haitian-American designer Djoones Altenor.
“The concept for the watch parties at HCX began with Maison Demar approaching us to launch a fashion line dedicated to the World Cup. He [Altenor] has designed bandannas, playing cards, hats, shorts and shirts,” said Regine Roumain, the executive director of Haiti Cultural Exchange. “I thought it would be good to add a designer to the concept and suggested Garvenchy of Vinshek. We currently have both of their designs on display at HCX.”
Haiti earned its spot in the tournament this year, becoming one of only two Caribbean countries to qualify, its first time back in 52 years. Just making it to the 48-nation field was a victory on its own. Their fans met the moment in equal measure, showing up to watch parties, picnics, and the match itself with determination, style, and a lot of fandom.
The day carried extra weight. June 19 was Juneteenth, the day enslaved people in Texas received word of their freedom, and the match fell between Haiti, the first country to abolish slavery, and Brazil, the last.
The event started in Prospect Park, where fans gathered for a Juneteenth picnic before the evening’s match. During Haiti’s second group-stage game, the Haitian Times asked fans about their outfit choices.
Tell us about your outfit inspiration.
My outfit was inspired by the island of Hispaniola. I wanted to wear something that reflected Caribbean pride, culture, and unity. The colors are bold, vibrant, and unapologetic just like the people of the island. My roots are Dominican, but growing up in New York City taught me to embrace every part of my identity, culture and the community that shaped me. My look blends streetwear with cultural pride.
What parallels do you see between fashion and your culture?
As a Dominican who strongly believes that Haitians and Dominicans share one history and a deeply connected future, I see fashion as a way to tell that story. Both fashion and Haitian culture are rooted in resilience, creativity, and self-expression. Celebrating Haitian culture isn’t different from celebrating Dominican culture; we’re different branches of the same tree. Fashion becomes a reminder that our shared history is something to honor, not divide.
Shawanda Mitchell, 28 year old from Fort Pierce, Florida also attended the Juneteenth picnic at Prospect Park in Brooklyn. Photo by Ruth Jean-Marie for the Haitian Times.
Tell us about your outfit inspiration.
My outfit was inspired by the karabela, Haiti’s national costume. I wanted to represent Haiti while also being comfortable. It’s a perfect blend of functionality and fun.
What parallels do you see between fashion and your culture?
The parallels include always being “extra”. I often reflect on my childhood and my mother dressing me up in big white fluffy dresses with matching socks and talon ki kit just to go to a doctor’s appointment. I always go back to those moments when I’m picking out pieces. [I remind myself that] it’s okay to be over the top
France Francois at Prospect Park. Photo by Ruth Jean-Marie for the Haitian Times.
France Francois, 40, an attorney born in Haiti, raised in Miami and who moved to New York during the pandemic was intentional in her outfit.
Tell us about your outfit inspiration.
I wanted to make a nod to both Juneteenth and the strength of Haitian women on the day Haiti played Brazil. My hair is wrapped as a nod to the Black Codes from New Orleans to Haiti and beyond that would not allow Black women and women of color to show their hair because of the fear of Black beauty with a very beautiful scarf from Prajje Oscar. The shirt is from FeNoel.
What parallels do you see between fashion and being Haitian?
The idea of what it means to be Haitian is constantly evolving, but what remains centered in being Haitian is both joy and resistance. Fashion, to me, is the same. Fashion continues to evolve and is a reflection of joy and resistance.
The next stop was the actual match. HCX and their partners packed an entire Brooklyn amphitheater. The fashion present in Almira Kennedy Coursey Amphitheater at Herbert Von King Park in Brooklyn was intentional and thoughtful. From cowrie shells to gold wire necklaces mirroring the shape of Haiti, onlookers weren’t completely clear about whose side they were on, but it was obvious who they were representing.
Not everyone came with a game plan. Friends Jazmin Smith, Shizzal, Mo Dubb, and Jahmed Kinsey had found their way to the right place at the right time.
“I’m just here for the vibes,” said Mo Dubb.
For HCX program manager Kassandra Kahlil, the watch parties were always about more than the score.
“Haiti Cultural Exchange Lakay Foutbòl watch parties have given us a special moment to cheer on Haiti’s national team, but really it’s been about celebrating their achievement and their historic contribution to the sport,” she said.
Shaloma Logan was on her way to another watch party. Photo by Ruth Jean-Marie for the Haitian Times.
