The Silent Walls: Racial Discrimination Against Haitian Migrants in the Dominican Republic’s Construction Sector
In recent years, the Dominican Republic has faced intense scrutiny for its treatment of Haitian migrants. Racial discrimination against Haitians has become increasingly visible, especially in the construction sector, where workers of Haitian descent make up the majority of the labor force. The Dominican Republic's construction sector is booming, with the demand for labor reaching unprecedented levels. But as migration policies tighten and deportations increase, construction companies are now opting to hire Colombian labor, leaving many long-standing Haitian workers displaced. Historical Context of Haitian Migration The relationship between Haiti and the Dominican Republic has long been complex, dating back to the 19th century when Haiti briefly occupied the Dominican Republic after gaining independence. This historical tension has resulted in deep-seated biases that continue to affect the perception of Haitians within Dominican society. Haitians began migrating to the Domini...