I am Volunteer SongShi Liang, a student from New York City College of Technology. My major is communication design. My illustration depicts a Haitian girl holding a fanal. The word fanal comes from the French word lantern. These lanterns come in various shapes and sizes. They are designed using cardboard and tissue paper of vibrant colors. They light up from the inside by a candle, creating a radiant glow. During the Christmas season, fanals can be found displayed in homes, along the streets, and in public spaces. The various designs can represent religious themes, and elements of Haitian culture. This practice helps create a festive atmosphere and exemplify Haitian cultural traditions at Christmas time.
The scene also includes three traditional Christmas dishes – tassot cabrit ( fried goat meat), griot (fried pork), and pineapple upside-down cake – placed on the table. These special meals are prepared by the schools for Haitian children to celebrate Christmas, providing a rare opportunity for students to enjoy meat, a luxury that may not always be afforded in their daily lives. Christmas is a significant holiday in Haiti, and the illustration conveys the joy of students relishing these delicious meals. In the illustration, the Haitian girl stands in front of the table, illuminated by a string of light bulbs and surrounded by Christmas decorations on the wall, clearly indicating that it is Christmas. The girl appears surprised and happy as she looks at the festive dishes on the table, as this meal is a rare treat for her.
Based on my research, I’ve discovered that some tables in Haitian schools are quite old. In fact, some are so old that the wood texture is no longer visible. To address this, I decided to feature a lace tablecloth on the table. For Haitians, the use of lace symbolizes elegance and tradition. It may also have personal or cultural significance regardless of their social status. Overall, It can suggest that Haitians are very proud people who aspire to create a better future for their youth. To see all merchandise options with my work, visit redbubble. We thank you for supporting our mission.
Written by SongShi Liang, edited by Marie Thadal
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