Transnational Families, Social and Symbolic Aspects in the Remittance Practices of Haitian Dyaspora in Brazil

In the emic sense, in Haitian Creole, dyaspora refers to a person of Haitian nationality or origin living in a foreign country, a status that carries prestige for the Haitian migrant. Voye kòb – the act of sending money – is a common and recurring economic action among the dyaspora. In the Haitian transnational context, money does not exist to eliminate exchanges. On the contrary, this transactional intermediary transcends economic exchanges to embody symbolic exchanges between the dyaspora and those who remain in Haiti.

Based on data collected from 180 Haitian migrants in the metropolitan region of Belo Horizonte through questionnaire-interviews, participant observation, and immersion in the Haitian community, and in dialogue with theories of Economic Sociology, I argue that voye kòb – or sending money – is a recurring act of reciprocity that does not adhere to rational economic calculations. Instead, this practice forms part of social reproduction strategies within family groups, aimed at reconverting forms of social and economic integration both in Haiti and in Brazil.

By exploring the reasons why Haitians in Brazil send money to Haiti, two truths about this common practice among Haitian migrants are revealed. The first truth relates to its utilitarian aspect: fulfilling essential family needs such as food, education, and housing. The second truth pertains to its symbolic dimension, highlighting broader social meanings such as status, recognition, and honor. Those who do not voye kòb without providing justifiable reasons are negatively sanctioned by being labeled dyaspora bouda chire (those who have failed abroad), engra (ungrateful), or manfouben (indifferent attitude). In doing so, they disqualify themselves in the Haitian transnational social space and risk being "de-diasporized," particularly by agents from their community of origin.

Haitian migrants send money not only to support their families but also to maintain the prestigious status of dyaspora.