Our first Staff Spotlight of 2021 is a member of our research department, Véronëque Ignace. Véronëque is a cultural activist, public health researcher, community-based organizer, and performing artist. Véronëque is dedicated to achieving her long term goal to seamlessly combine her passion for Haiti, people, and dance in such a way that allows for large-scale healing.

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NICOLE: What does your activism look like?

VÉRONËQUE: I identify as a cultural activist, dedicated to looking critically at the tools cultural heritage offers to instigate and impact social change.

I believe that creativity, motivated by love for oneself, is necessary for survival as it is informed by experiential living.

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NICOLE: What is your relationship with art and artistic practice? What kinda art do you create?

‍VÉRONËQUE: I am a dancer, choreographer, and performing artist. I believe that creativity, motivated by love for oneself, is necessary for survival as it is informed by experiential living. Channeling the cultures, traditions, and even the disputes of my family is what solidifies my Haitian identity and allows me a true understanding of the pains of trauma and the relief of recovery. I create from here. I build from here. I envision myself and my communities in the future with this understanding.

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NICOLE: What are you working on now that really excites you?

VÉRONËQUE: I'm working toward building a legacy - one that is defined by a clear commitment to community collaboration and wellness.

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NICOLE: How have u supported POC in the last year?

VÉRONËQUE: Through Kriyol Dance! Collective, I am consistently looking to create action as a performer and community organizer. Since April we have been sharing wellness ideas and offerings for managing your mental and physical health during this pandemic, support by Citizens Committee for New York City's All In Neighborhood Grant. This includes workshops, movement classes, blog posts, and digital content focus on, but not limited to stress management, creativity, rest, breath-work and curating self-care routines.

I'm working toward building a legacy - one that is defined by a clear commitment to community collaboration and wellness.

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What's your favorite quote?

VÉRONËQUE: “When I dare to be powerful - to use my strength in the service of my vision, then it becomes less and less important whether I am afraid.” -Audre Lorde

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What's your favorite winter treat?

VÉRONËQUE: Apple Crisps with two scoops of Vanilla Ice Cream :)

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This interview has been edited for length or clarity.

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