Peniel Joseph : For 200 years , Haitian revolution has inspired black activism in the U.S. Joseph : C.L.R . Haitian slaves , led by Toussaint Louis , founded first black republic . Haitians are born of revolution , with a resilient , resourceful spirit , Joseph says . Haitians ' kinship with African - Americans rooted in solidarity and heroic resistance , he says .
Peniel Joseph : For 200 years , Haitian revolution has inspired black activism in the U.S. Joseph : Haitian slaves , led by Toussaint Louis , founded first black republic . Haitians are born of revolution , with a resilient , resourceful spirit , Joseph says . Haitians ' kinship with African - Americans rooted in solidarity and heroic resistance , he says .