This chapter traces the sociocultural roots of bilingualism in Haiti, examining how French colonialism and post-independence policies created a rigid linguistic hierarchy privileging French while marginalizing Haitian Creole (Kreyòl). Despite 90% of the population speaking Kreyòl, French remains the dominant language of government, law, business, and education, perpetuating systemic exclusion and social stratification. This chapter highlights the role of the Catholic Church, the 1982 Bernard Reform, and the ongoing curriculum debates, showing how Kreyòl has been incrementally legitimized, yet continues to face structural and pedagogical resistance. Ultimately, achieving functional bilingualism requires prioritizing Kreyòl as the language of instruction while integrating French, creating an education system that reflects Haitian reality and supports equitable access to learning.

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Sociocultural Roots of Bilingualism in Haiti

  • Bertrhude Albert,
  • Tamara Doucet-Larozar

摘要

This chapter traces the sociocultural roots of bilingualism in Haiti, examining how French colonialism and post-independence policies created a rigid linguistic hierarchy privileging French while marginalizing Haitian Creole (Kreyòl). Despite 90% of the population speaking Kreyòl, French remains the dominant language of government, law, business, and education, perpetuating systemic exclusion and social stratification. This chapter highlights the role of the Catholic Church, the 1982 Bernard Reform, and the ongoing curriculum debates, showing how Kreyòl has been incrementally legitimized, yet continues to face structural and pedagogical resistance. Ultimately, achieving functional bilingualism requires prioritizing Kreyòl as the language of instruction while integrating French, creating an education system that reflects Haitian reality and supports equitable access to learning.