What do the Fugees mean by "Haitian Sicilian"?

Part of the lyrics from the Fugees' song, How Many Mics, states:

"Momma always told me 'You're one in a million'; Always watch your back, never tangle with Haitian Sicilians."

The Meaning Behind the Lyrics

There have been many arguments surrounding the lines in How Many Mics deciphering their meanings. Central to the argument is the phrase "Haitian Sicilians".

While most commentators suggest it refers to the link between organized crime-conducting Haitians and Sicilians, largely in the confines of New York City, others argue that it is Wyclef Jean urging the youth away from crime and towards making music.

Still others interpret this as criticism of African Americans who'd take on a mafia persona, trying to draw a parallel between their Haitian legacy and mobsters who were, in large part, sons of Sicilian immigrants.

The Legacy of How Many Mics

The Score, a multi-platinum album by the Fugees set within a hip-hop context, featured How Many Mics in 1996, a song that would prove quite memorable in hip-hop history. It has deep lyrics and social commentary that speak out against the state of the industry and societal norms, mostly in Wyclef's, Lauryn Hill's, and Pras' different stylizations of vignettes.

J. Period’s Influence on the Song

Hip-hop historian and DJ J. Period once said that in conversations with Wyclef Jean, some of How Many Mics's lyrics were inspired. This adds another layer to the song's meaning, illustrating how personal experience and reflection become music.