The Haitian Creole Language Program, supported by Indiana University, is experiencing a surge in enrollment with forty-three students eager to learn the language and immerse themselves in the culture of Haiti. The program pairs students with native Haitian Creole speakers to practice language skills and connect with the Haitian community in Indianapolis. Websder Corneille, a professor at Indiana University Bloomington, leads the course, emphasizing the importance of bridging cultural divides through language learning.
Corneille, also an elementary teacher, understands the challenges newcomers face with language barriers in a new country. The Haitian Association of Indiana estimates around 30,000 Haitians live in Indianapolis, many seeking refuge from Haiti’s ongoing crisis. Corneille highlights the importance of immersion in different cultures to better understand the experiences of those from Haiti.
The Haitian Creole Conversation Club, held every Friday, provides a space for learners worldwide to practice their skills. Corneille believes that learning Haitian Creole is not just about the language, but also about understanding the country’s history of resistance and fight for freedom. He encourages people to see learning a new language as a way to connect with others and embrace different cultures.
The program at Indiana University has been a leader in teaching Haitian Creole in the U.S. and abroad, offering students a unique opportunity to engage with the language and culture of Haiti. Through language learning and cultural immersion, students are not only gaining new skills but also fostering connections with the Haitian community in Indianapolis.
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