The history behind the Haitian Revolution is rich, fascinating, and complicated. When the generals, soldiers, and slaves met for the final battle of Vertières that fateful night, they were walking with their destiny. Against the odds, they remained steadfast to principle and harnessed themselves to a collective effort toward justice. It is an improbable tale of courage that ennobled the human condition, dignified the virtues of liberty, and made human progress possible.

If Sunday is to be successful, it will require that Haitians be united with each other, attached to the principle of self-government and the laws. Elections are about fairness and respect. Haitians must remember that there is a fundamental difference between opposition and enemy. Though passion may put us in different camps during the process of choosing our next leaders, it must not break our bonds of affection.