In an interview with Haiti Inter, Lilas Desquiron, Haiti’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, announced the creation of the Frankétienne Literary Prize [Prix Littéraire Frankétienne], in tribute to the great Haitian writer who recently passed away. UNESCO’s first literary prize will serve to continue the legacy of Frankétienne, an iconic figure of Haitian literature and visual arts, and to celebrate the richness of literary creation.

For many of us who followed his work, this development does not come as a surprise. As mentioned in The Haitian Times (obituary), Frankétienne was a candidate for the Nobel Prize in Literature in 2009, and in 2010, he was named a Commander of the Ordre des Arts et des Lettres, France’s highest honor for artists. That same year, he was designated a UNESCO Artist for Peace, recognized for his efforts to preserve Haitian culture and language. He received the Grand Prix de la Francophonie in 2021.” This posthumous tribute is only fitting for such an inspiring man.

Here is a translation of an article by Wislin Prévil (Le Temoin), “Le Prix Frankétienne, le premier Prix littéraire de l’UNESCO.”

The announcement came as a great surprise in the literary world. Lilas Desquiron, Haiti’s Permanent Delegate to UNESCO, announced the creation of the Frankétienne Literary Prize, in tribute to the great Haitian writer who recently passed away. This is the first-ever literary prize awarded by UNESCO, a powerful symbol of international recognition of Frankétienne’s immense contribution to Haitian literature and culture.

The creation of this prize is an unprecedented event for Haiti and for UNESCO. Frankétienne, a major figure in Francophone literature and co-founder of the “Spiralism” movement, leaves behind a prolific body of work that has influenced several generations of writers and readers. By dedicating a prize in his name, UNESCO creates a testament to Haiti’s cultural richness and seeks to encourage literary creativity in the wake of Frankétienne’s legacy.

Like any literary prize, the Frankétienne Literary Prize aims to recognize authors whose writings are distinguished by their originality, stylistic quality, and ability to inspire. By bearing the name of the renowned writer, this prize aims to promote his legacy and stimulate the research, study, and dissemination of his work. Establishing a prize of this magnitude, under the auspices of UNESCO, strengthens the position of Haitian literature on the world stage and encourages cultural cooperation.

The creation of the Frankétienne Literary Prize reflects UNESCO’s commitment to recognizing cultural diversity and supporting Haiti’s efforts to showcase its artistic talents. It also represents a vibrant testament to the influence of Frankétienne, whose work continues to inspire well beyond Haiti’s borders. By formalizing this prize, Lilas Desquiron and UNESCO are opening a new chapter for Haitian literature, while paying universal tribute to an author whose style and commitment have left their mark on literary history and the collective consciousness. This is a powerful signal to all those who believe in the power of words to transform the world and reinvent the imaginary.

Translated by Ivette Romero. For original article (in French) see https://letemoinhaiti.com/home/article/le-prix-franketienne-le-premier-prix-litteraire-de-lunesco/