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Check FAQAbout Wilkine
Wilkine Brutus is a Haitian-American writer, web series producer and freelance multimedia journalist with millions of views across social media, covering international travel, culture, and current affairs. His forward-thinking approach to human relations, particularly during his time in South Korea, has garnered several TV and radio appearances, magazine contributions, and a keynote speaking performance at Twitter Headquarters for a symposium on digital media, alongside Google Ventures, Bloomberg, Ebony Magazine, and LinkedIn. In 2016, he was the star of an international viral video about the nature of human touch; republished by the New York Post, it currently sits at 6 million views on Facebook. His content and social media campaigns has been featured on WHYY(NPR affiliate), MTV, BET, SiriusXM, Ebony Magazine, Complex Magazine, Vibe Magazine, Okayplayer, and other media outlets. TV appearances include: WPTV NewsChannel 5 and RT America Radio appearances include: BBC World Service with Ben James; SiriusXM (Karen Hunter Show)
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Portfolio
Political and economic turmoil in Haiti causes humanitarian crisis to grow
Haiti is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to political and economic instability, with well-funded gangs controlling access to resources and impeding aid. Nonprofits in Miami, home to the largest Haitian American population in the U.S., are struggling to support Haiti. Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis has been criticized for his handling of potential Haitian migrants. Organizations like Family Action Network Movement and Food For The Poor are expressing frustration and concern over the inability to deliver aid to Haiti. The situation has halted operations at airports and seaports, and there is a call for the establishment of an internationally backed transitional government in Haiti.
Political and economic turmoil in Haiti causes humanitarian crisis to grow
Haiti is facing a severe humanitarian crisis due to political and economic turmoil, with well-funded gangs controlling access to resources and impeding aid. Nonprofits in Miami, home to the largest Haitian American population in the U.S., are struggling to send food and supplies. Florida's Governor Ron DeSantis has been criticized for his response to potential Haitian migrants. Organizations like Family Action Network Movement and Food For The Poor are expressing outrage and concern as they await the establishment of an internationally backed transitional government in Haiti.
Marking 50 years of Haitian boat people, amid threats to the Biden migrant parole program
A year-long tribute in South Florida to Haitian migrants concluded with a ceremony in Little Haiti, marking 50 years since the first 'boat people' arrived. The event coincided with political tensions as President Biden faces Republican demands to end the humanitarian parole program for Haitian immigrants. The tribute involved various events, including a panel with Haitian migrant Abel Jean-Simon Zephyr, activist Santra Denis, and attorney Ruth Jean. Republicans seek stricter asylum and parole rules, while Democrats face challenges in balancing immigration with foreign aid commitments.
Soul Basel: Festival in Overtown explores Black hair as art form
The Coil-Ture Freedom Festival, part of Soul Basel in Miami's Overtown, celebrates Black hair as an art form and act of resistance against discrimination. The event features art, health, and education panels, emphasizing natural lifestyles and self-love. Simone Hylton, founder of the festival and Natural Trendsetters salon, highlights the natural hair movement's growth. Kamila Pritchett of The Black Archives notes the diversity of Black hair and the progress against hair bias, including more natural hairstyles in professional settings. The festival coincides with the Historic Lyric Theater's 110th anniversary, a venue founded by Geder Walker during segregation. The CROWN Act, legislation against hair-based discrimination, is mentioned, reflecting cultural and institutional shifts towards acceptance of natural Black hair.
The creator behind the “Rara Tech” EDM movement explains how his new music genre is changing perceptions toward Haiti.
Gardy Girault, the pioneer of the 'Rara Tech' EDM movement, discusses how his music is changing global perceptions of Haiti. In an interview with Okayplayer, Girault shares his insights on the unique blend of Haitian music, which incorporates indigenous, African, European, and Latin influences, and its appeal to international audiences. He also touches on the socio-political challenges in Haiti and the potential for a cultural renaissance facilitated by technology and social media. Girault emphasizes the importance of education and community support in Haiti's evolution. He hints at his upcoming album 'Ghetto Leyane' and a future visual concept project showcasing regional differences within Haiti. The article also highlights the significance of Haitian cultural events like the 'Battle of Vertières' and Haiti’s Independence Day.
Pro-Palestinian groups clash with pro-Israel groups in Boca Raton
Pro-Palestinian rights advocates clashed with Israeli counter-protesters in Boca Raton, Florida, in front of Real-Time Laboratories, a subsidiary of Elbit Systems of America. The protest was part of a nationwide event calling for Palestinian statehood and an end to the use of white phosphorus bombs by Israel. Palm Beach County showed financial support for Israel by investing in Israeli bonds. The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in significant casualties on both sides and has sparked a global debate on the situation in Gaza and the West Bank. U.S. Representative Rashida Tlaib faced censure for her stance on the conflict, while UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres highlighted the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
'A tremendous loss': Palm Tran Executive Director Clinton B. Forbes dies of apparent heart attack
Clinton B. Forbes, the Executive Director of Palm Tran, died at the age of 55 due to an apparent heart attack. He was a Miami native with nearly 30 years of experience in public transportation and had led Palm Tran since November 2015. Forbes was also the Chair of the Florida Public Transit Association. He was known for his dedication and leadership, having introduced several new programs such as Go Glades and a new transit smart card and mobile payment system. His death is considered a significant loss to the community and the public transit system in Palm Beach County.
An 'anomaly' of the South: How Black and white settlers worked together in Palm Beach County
Descendants of early Palm Beach County settlers will discuss the county's racially-inclusive history at the Norton Museum of Art, highlighting local stories of cooperation among different races and the progress towards civil rights. The event will feature stories of legal victories, educational breakthroughs, and cultural impacts, such as the creation of the Sara Lee Negro doll. Speakers include Dr. Catherine Lowe and historian Harvey Oyer III, who will emphasize the county's unique integrated society during its pioneer days and the importance of confronting and learning from history.
Palm Beach County agricultural land-swap deal fails at final vote
A controversial land-swap deal proposed by GL Homes to build over 1,000 luxury homes on protected wetlands in Palm Beach County was rejected in a final vote by the county commission. The deal, which would have required changes to conservation laws, was initially approved but ultimately failed after Commissioners Mack Bernard and Mayor Gregg Weiss reversed their support. The proposal faced opposition from residents, environmentalists, and some commissioners who raised concerns about water conservation and the precedent it would set for future development on preserved land. Despite arguments from some commissioners and supporters about the benefits of the project, including workforce housing and community infrastructure, the commission voted 4-3 against it.
Yvonne Lee Odom, grandmother to tennis superstar Coco Gauff, is herself a trailblazer
Yvonne Lee Odom, Coco Gauff's grandmother, is recognized for her pioneering role in desegregating Delray Beach public schools in 1961 and her 45-year career as an educator. Coco Gauff, who recently won the U.S. Open, comes from a family of determined individuals, including her late great-grandfather, a pastor at St. John Missionary Baptist Church. Odom, who was also an athlete, sees parallels between her experiences and those of Jackie Robinson. She continues to share her story to inspire current student athletes.
Yvonne Lee Odom, grandmother to tennis superstar Coco Gauff, is herself a trailblazer
Yvonne Lee Odom, Coco Gauff's grandmother, is recognized for her pioneering role in desegregating Delray Beach public schools in 1961 and her 45-year career as an educator. Coco Gauff, who recently won the U.S. Open, attributes her approach to processing situations with kindness and understanding to her grandmother's influence. Odom's story continues to inspire current student athletes, and she is celebrated within her community both for her own achievements and as Coco's grandmother.
Meet Coco Gauff's grandmother, a civil rights trailblazer in Palm Beach County
Following Coco Gauff's U.S. Open Tennis Championships victory, her grandmother Yvonne Lee Odom, a civil rights pioneer who integrated Delray Beach public schools over 60 years ago, was celebrated at Saint John Missionary Baptist Church. Odom, who taught in the city for 45 years, was honored with a 'Back to School Day Proclamation' at Delray Beach City Hall. She shared her experiences of integrating schools, drawing parallels to sports pioneers like Jackie Robinson. The family's athletic legacy includes Odom's husband, Eddie 'Red' Odom, and Coco's parents, Candi and Corey Gauff, who were collegiate athletes. Odom's father, the late Rev. R.M. Lee, was also recognized for his influence on her life.
New immigration law forces a family to flee Florida, leaving behind an American-born student
Florida's new strict immigration law, a key point in Gov. Ron DeSantis' presidential campaign, has caused fear among immigrant communities, leading to an exodus. The Farm Worker Association of Florida, supported by the ACLU of Florida and Southern Poverty Law Center, filed a lawsuit to block the law. High school student Sarai Umansor Morales's family sold their business and moved to North Carolina, leaving her behind. The law imposes stringent criteria on employers, invalidates out-of-state IDs, and requires hospitals to inquire about immigration status. Legal advocates seek a preliminary injunction to halt the law's enforcement during litigation.
A new law will affect how some immigrants in Florida access work and medical care
A Florida law requiring hospital patients to show immigration status and companies to use E-Verify for worker legality takes effect on July 1. Immigrants in South Florida, particularly those speaking Mayan languages, are concerned about the law's implications. The Guatemalan-Maya Center is providing information and support, while Republican Representative Rick Roth encourages immigrants to stay, stating the law targets only new immigrants. Danna Torres, clinic director at the center, emphasizes that immigrants can still receive medical care and decline to answer questions about their status. The law's economic impact is debated, with some focusing on labor value and others on community contributions.
A new law will affect how some immigrants in Florida access work and medical care
A new Florida law effective July 1 requires hospital patients to disclose their immigration status and mandates companies with over 25 employees to use E-Verify. At a meeting at the Guatemalan-Maya Center in Palm Beach County, immigrants learned about the law's implications. The law has instilled fear, particularly among Indigenous Guatemalans, leading some to consider moving to more immigrant-friendly states. Republican Representative Rick Roth is encouraging immigrants to stay, emphasizing that the law targets new immigrants. Danna Torres, clinic director at the Guatemalan-Maya Center, is informing clients that they can still receive medical care and do not have to disclose their immigration status. The center is fundraising to support those who decide to leave while encouraging others to stay.
A new law will affect how some immigrants in Florida access work and medical care
A Florida law taking effect on July 1 requires hospital patients to disclose their immigration status and mandates companies with over 25 employees to use E-Verify. Immigrants in South Florida, particularly those speaking Mayan languages, are concerned about the law's implications. The Guatemalan-Maya Center is providing information and support, while Republican Representative Rick Roth is encouraging immigrants to stay. The law also invalidates out-of-state IDs and has raised fears of economic impact and community disruption.
A new law will affect how some immigrants in Florida access work and medical care
A new Florida law effective July 1 requires hospital patients to disclose their immigration status and mandates companies with over 25 employees to use E-Verify. Immigrants in South Florida, particularly those speaking Mayan languages, are concerned about the law's impact. The Guatemalan-Maya Center hosted a meeting to address misinformation about SB 1718. Republican Representative Rick Roth is encouraging immigrants to stay, while Danna Torres, clinic director at the Center, emphasizes that immigrants can still receive medical care without disclosing their status. The law also invalidates out-of-state IDs, prompting some immigrants to consider moving to more immigrant-friendly states.
A new law will affect how some immigrants in Florida access work and medical care
A new Florida law effective July 1 requires hospital patients to disclose their immigration status and mandates companies with over 25 employees to use E-Verify. At a meeting at the Guatemalan-Maya Center in Palm Beach County, immigrants learned about the law's implications. The law has instilled fear, particularly among Indigenous Guatemalans, and has led to some families relocating to more immigrant-friendly states. Republican Representative Rick Roth is encouraging immigrants to stay, emphasizing that the law targets new immigrants. Danna Torres, clinic director at the Guatemalan-Maya Center, is educating clients on their rights to medical care despite the new requirements. The center is also fundraising to support those who choose to leave while encouraging others to remain in the state.
We Explore the Minds of Young Muslim Directors WHYY/NPR
6 Questions with Ladies of the 6ix (Toronto, Canada)
WPTV NewsChannel 5 interview with Wilkine Brutus
Wilkine Brutus Media Reel
Africa's Contemporary Art Scene Shines at Prizm Art Fair
The article discusses the ongoing cultural boom in Africa's contemporary art, which has been highlighted at events like Art Basel and Miami Art Week. The Prizm Art Fair, directed by Mikhaile Solomon, is a focal point of this discussion, offering a platform for underrepresented artists of color to showcase their work. The fair features various sections such as Prizm Preview, Panels, Film, and Perform, and aims to foster transcultural dialogue. The article also lists five black artists participating in Prizm, providing insights into their backgrounds and artistic motivations. These artists include Sheena Rose, Nyugen Smith, Louise Mandumbwa, T. Eliott Mansa, and Leslie Hewitt, each bringing unique perspectives and challenging mainstream narratives through their art.
How a Haitian-American Handles Survivor's Guilt & Disaster Capitalism
The article recounts the personal experience of the author's family during Hurricane Matthew's devastation of Jérémie, Haiti, and the subsequent wait for news of their survival. The author's mother, a Haitian refugee in South Florida, anxiously awaited updates while the storm approached the U.S. The family in Haiti survived, taking refuge in a second home on higher ground. The author expresses anger and survivor's guilt, criticizing the portrayal of Haiti in Western media and the exploitation of the country's poverty and disasters for financial gain. The article condemns past foreign policies and interventions, such as Bill Clinton's rice subsidy policy and the American Red Cross's inadequate response to the 2010 earthquake. The author advocates for supporting local Haitian organizations to build infrastructure and break the cycle of exploitation.
Exclusive: Man Explains Why Video of An Asian Woman Touching His Hair Went Viral
The article recounts the author's experience at the Fire Festival in Jeju Island, South Korea, where an old Korean lady expressed her curiosity and excitement towards him, a Black man, by touching his dreadlocks and taking a photo with him. The video of this encounter went viral, symbolizing a positive interaction between Black and Asian communities. The author reflects on the broader implications of such interactions, touching on themes of racial homogeneity, personal space, and the human desire for connection. The article also discusses the lack of interracial friendships in the United States and the importance of overcoming social fears and biases. The author suggests that modernity should be defined not just by technological advancements but also by our social progress and willingness to embrace diversity.
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