[Many thanks to Peter Jordens for bringing this item to our attention.] The Haitian Times (May 7, 2026) reports that Haitian filmmaker Samuel Dameus’ documentary The Heroes of the Massacre River has won the 2026 Film for Peace Best Film – Caribbean Award, a recognition of its powerful portrayal of Haiti’s history, identity and grassroots civic action.
The award, presented by the International Peace Alliance, will be formally given on October 24 during the Peace Ambassadors Awards Gala & Grand Ball in Toronto, part of the International Peace Festival. [The International Peace Alliance / Alliance Internationale de la Paix is a Canada-based civic organization promoting global peace through art, culture, and education.]
The Heroes of the Massacre River
Director: Samuel Dameus
Year: 2025
Genre: Documentary
Duration: 80 minutes
Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w2G-vuby6SE
[. . .] Bottom of FormThe documentary centers on the construction of the Ouanaminthe canal along the Massacre River, a citizen-led initiative that mobilized farmers, workers and members of the Haitian Diaspora. The project emerged as a defining moment of modern civic resistance, aimed at strengthening economic autonomy and national sovereignty.
Through archival material and firsthand accounts, the film connects this contemporary movement to the 1937 Parsley Massacre along the Haiti–Dominican Republic border. It explores how historical trauma continues to shape present-day struggles over land, identity and self-determination.
“This recognition is deeply meaningful,” Dameus said. He dedicated the award to Milourie Sylfrard, whom he described as one of the canal movement’s key figures. “This film is about preserving memory, honoring resilience and ensuring that the stories rooted in our history continue to be told and understood beyond our borders.”
The film has gained growing international attention, with organizers inviting Dameus to attend the ceremony and provide a copy for screening during the festival.
Audience members have also praised the documentary’s impact. One supporter described it as “a profound experience,” highlighting its storytelling and its portrayal of konbit, a traditional Haitian practice of communal labor and solidarity.
[. . .] The film is available online via BOYOfilms.com.
For original article, visit https://haitiantimes.com/2026/05/07/haitian-documentary-massacre-river-award-2026
Also see https://www.internationalpeacefestival.net/film-for-peace-2026.
[Many thanks to Peter Jordens for bringing this item to our attention.] The Haitian Times (May 7, 2026) reports that Haitian filmmaker Samuel Dameus’ documentary The Heroes of the Massacre River has won the 2026 Film for Peace Best Film – Caribbean Award, a recognition of its powerful portrayal of Haiti’s history, identity and grassroots
