Addressing environmental health disparities through community-based research
Stories have the power to bridge worlds, carrying the voices of those who might otherwise go unheard. In Dr. Sklar's research, storytelling—through narrative, song, and visual media—reveals the rich textures of people's lives and experiences in ways that data alone cannot capture.
Through our work in Haiti and Rwanda, we've learned that artistic collaboration can help build trust and foster meaningful relationships with communities. These shared creative experiences have taught us valuable lessons about establishing more ethical and effective research partnerships. Over time, these musical collaborations have become important pathways for cross-cultural understanding that enhance our environmental health work.
"Mizikannou" is Kreyol for "our music." Based in Cap Haitian, this artist and musician collective is dedicated to the revival and preservation of Haiti's captivating musical traditions. Our collaborations build bridges between communities through storytelling and song. Dr. Sklar served as producer for the album, working directly with local musicians to capture authentic performances while honoring traditional musical forms.
Visit the Mizikannou website to learn more about this musical collaboration and its mission to share Haiti's rich traditional music with the world.
In Rwanda, I recorded with a group of musicians practicing "Ibitekerezo," a form of epic hero poetry that was performed at the royal court in precolonial Rwanda. This oral tradition explains the history of Rwandan dynasties in poetic form and is one of four major royal traditions of the Kingdom of Rwanda.
Our collaboration also produced songs combining traditional Congolese rhythms with American roots music, creating bridges between cultures. This cross-cultural musical exchange parallels our research approach, which seeks to build connections across diverse communities and honor indigenous knowledge systems.
These musical collaborations demonstrate how artistic expression can transcend cultural boundaries while respecting and celebrating distinct traditions—a principle that guides our environmental health research with communities across different regions.
Experience our musical collaborations from Haiti and Rwanda:
This album captures the vibrant musical traditions of Cap Haitian, featuring collaborations with local musicians to preserve and celebrate Haiti's rich cultural heritage.
An exploration of traditional Rwandan poetic forms and musical expressions, combined with influences from American roots music to create cross-cultural connections.