Share FacebookTwitterPinterestLinkedinWhatsappTelegramEmail 12.5K Cassandre Jacques, a model representing San Juan in the Miss World Dominican Republic 2024 pageant, recently withdrew from the competition following a surge of racially charged criticism over her Haitian heritage. Jacques, also celebrated as First Princess in the 2023 International Coffee Pageant, faced backlash after her press debut, with critics claiming she was unfit to represent the Dominican Republic due to her ancestry. Historically, Haiti and the Dominican Republic, both once part of Hispaniola and colonized by France, have been separated by a complex legacy of racial and social injustices. The Dominican side largely identifies with a lighter-skinned population, descended from French settlers and historically oppressed Haitians, while Haiti, following its independence in 1804, embraced a Black identity despite ongoing racial struggles. Despite being neighbors, the two nations’ shared history has been marred by socio-political and racial divides that continue to surface in issues of identity. More Articles You Would Love PICS: Top Influencer Krisline Stars in Fabulous ‘SISTERHOOD’ Images Featuring Sierra Leone Influencer Sonia Tucker VIDEO: Models Celestine & Mimi Rock In BTS For Accra Fashion Week 2016: #AFWk2016 In a heartfelt Instagram post, Jacques explained her decision to leave the competition. “After deep reflection, I’ve chosen to step away, a decision that was not made lightly.” She went on to thank her supporters and affirmed that her withdrawal marked “the beginning of new dreams and opportunities, which I’m ready to embrace with the same passion.” Jacques’s story has reignited discussions about race, nationalism, and identity, with her supporters calling for broader acceptance of diversity in representation. Her withdrawal highlights ongoing challenges for Haitians and Dominican-Haitians who strive to bridge cultural gaps in a deeply divided society. Show her support and follow Her here. Read More Like This On Ghana Celebrity Watch VISIT OUR SHOP Hot Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Two-Tone Pleated Top Dress With Layered African Print Skirt $140.00 Hot Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist African Print Off-Shoulder Fringe Top + Bell Bottom Pants $70.00 – $140.00 Hot Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Balloon Sleeve Chiffon Layered TopRated 4.40 out of 5 $120.00 Hot Add to cart Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Mikoko Deluxe Deep V SwimwearRated 4.33 out of 5 $85.00 Hot Add to cart Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Mud Cloth Trophy JacketRated 4.50 out of 5 $120.00 Hot Add to cart Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Mud Cloth Trench Coat In Midi LengthRated 5.00 out of 5 $220.00 Hot Add to cart Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Mud Cloth Caped Shoulder JacketRated 5.00 out of 5 $250.00 Hot Select options This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product page Quick ViewAdd to Wishlist Fohrella Sleeveless Negus Top + Press Fastening Leg Pant $70.00 – $180.00 UPCOMING PRIORITY EVENTS! VIEW ALL EVENTS To Submit stories Email: submit@FashionGHANA.com or HashTag #FashionGHANA Share FacebookTwitterPinterestLinkedinWhatsappTelegramEmail FashionGHANA Admin FashionGHANA.com is a Fashion PR Company, Events planning & management team as well as Africa's leading Fashion Media House. Get Intouch with us and let's see how we can help you grow. info@FashionGHANAcom More For You The Other Side of Body Shaming: The Unspoken Struggles of Slim Models in... Check Out The Top 10 Runways Models That Rocked Accra Fashion Week 2024 “It Was Unfortunate There Wasn’t A Ceremony At The Show” – Face Of... Miss Cote d’Ivorie Beauty Pageant Bans Weaves & Wigs From The Competition; Natural... Face Of Accra Fashion Week 2025 Opens Applications For Its Nationwide Search VIDEO: Nigeria’s Chidimma Vanessa Adetshina Robbed Off Miss Universe 2024 Title & Receives... After Pushing Out Chidimma, Miss SA’s European Queen Drops Out Of Miss Universe;... VIDEOS: Watch Chidimma Vanessa Celebrate At Miss Universe 2024 Whilst Dancing To Ghanaian... VIDEO: Watch The Moment Miss Grand Ghana 2024 Won Best Evening Gown VIDEO: Watch The Iconic Moment Where Miss Grand France 2024 Safietou Kabengele Removed...