The Lavalas Movement is a political and social movement in Haiti that emerged in the late 1980s. It was founded by Jean-Bertrand Aristide, a former priest who became the first democratically elected president of Haiti in 1990. The movement aimed to address issues of poverty, inequality, and social justice, advocating for the rights of the marginalized and promoting grassroots participation in governance. The name "Lavalas" means "avalanche" in Haitian Creole, symbolizing a sweeping change in the political landscape. The movement gained significant support among the Haitian population but faced challenges, including military coups and political repression. Despite these obstacles, Lavalas has remained a significant force in Haitian politics, influencing various social and political developments.