Haitians unable to reach sacred waterfall due to gang control

In July 2025, thousands of Haitians were unable to participate in their annual pilgrimage to Saut-d'Eau, a revered waterfall in central Haiti, as the area is currently under control of violent gangs. This pilgrimage is traditionally held to honor both the Virgin Mary of Mount Carmel and the Vodou goddess Erzulie, who are both significant figures in Haitian culture. The absence of the pilgrimage reflects the dire security situation, as the gang violence has resulted in the deaths of over 4,800 people and many more being kidnapped, thereby instilling fear in the communities. Many participants instead gathered at a small church in Port-au-Prince, where they prayed for safety and peace amid the worsening gang violence that has affected daily life in the capital. In recent years, more than 1.3 million people have been displaced due to the rampant gang violence, which has surged significantly since late 2022. The powerful Canaan gang and others control around 85% of Port-au-Prince, causing residents to express their desperation in seeking divine intervention. During the makeshift ceremony, attendees offered prayers for deliverance, showcasing their determination to remain connected to their traditions despite the intimidating atmosphere surrounding them. The video footage circulated online showed gang leaders meeting in the church, which had been built for the pilgrimage, distributing money to attendees, highlighting the complex and troubling dynamics between faith and gang activity in the region. Many lamented the loss of their sacred site to these groups, voicing the shame and disgrace felt in a country where prayer and connection to water were once seen as pure and healing. The pilgrims, however, maintained hope for change and promised to return to Saut-d'Eau when the violence subsides. The situation has also prompted significant external factors, such as an increase in deportations from the United States, complicating the lives of many Haitians who are desperate for refuge. As the impact of ongoing violence continues to plague the nation, it has rendered the annual pilgrimage a symbol of resilience rather than a celebration, emphasizing the dire need for peace and security for the people of Haiti.