Haitian Flag Day Celebration is Not Canceled

Expressing the beauty of Haitian Flag Day and sharing ways to celebrate while in quarantine.

May 18, 1803 — May 18, 2020

L’Union Fait La Force — Unity Makes Strength

Three weeks ago, while gazing at my dear grandmother whose acts of service are full of love, wisdom, traditional power, and intergenerational knowledge, my mind was reminded of Haitian Flag Day’s yearly commemoration. In her, I see Ayiti, full of mountainous resilience and an open heart to see her people thrive no matter the hardships to combat along the way. Then, I thought about the millions of people across the globe who usually celebrate Haitian Flag Day by meeting and commanding space together: with pride, music, songs, dance, stories, speeches, costumes, bands, and smiles. Following that, the COVID-19 pandemic immersed itself to remind me that this year, social distancing is of primary obligation for our collective wellness. On that note, many of the events that local organizations were planning, which brought me abundant excitement, must be canceled.

Q: Then, is the Haitian Flag Day celebration canceled this year due to the COVID-19 pandemic?

A: In this crisis, I am deeply inspired to uplift and celebrate Haitian Flag Day. My desire to do so grew ten times wider. Here is why.