Celebrating Haiti’s Enduring Legacy of Freedom, History, and Unity
On May 28, NYCHA’s Haitian American Association (HAA) gathered in the Ceremonial Room at 90 Church Street to celebrate Haitian Flag Day, commemorating a hard-won history of freedom, resilience, and unity that continues to shape Haitian identity today.
The celebration brought together employees and guests for an afternoon of food, fellowship, and reflection. Following welcome remarks from the HAA’s leadership and an impassioned rendition of Haiti’s national anthem sung by a proud daughter of Haiti, NYCHA social worker Magalie Joseph, attendees heard from scholar and historian Dr. William Balan-Gaubert of the University of Chicago.
Dr. Balan-Gaubert delivered another passionate presentation of the day, exploring Haiti’s place in the revolutionary era that transformed the Western world at the end of the 18th century and reshaped modern ideas about freedom, citizenship, and human rights.
For members of the Haitian American Association, those lessons from history remain deeply relevant today.
The motto at the base of every Haitian flag reads “L’Union Fait La Force” (Unity Makes Strength)
and that spirit of unity was much in evidence in every aspect of the May 28 celebration
Founded to celebrate Haitian culture and heritage while fostering community among employees, the HAA welcomes everyone — not only those of Haitian heritage, but any employee who seeks to learn more about Haiti’s history and traditions. Over the years, the organization has sponsored cultural programs, educational events, and fundraising efforts supporting relief and recovery following natural disasters and other crises affecting Haiti.
The HAA’s leaders said preserving and sharing Haiti’s history remains central to that mission.
“We need to understand our history; I think that will help to push us forward,” said Magdalie Adolphe, another member of the HAA board. “We have a flag whose motto is L’Union Fait La Force — Unity Makes Strength.”
That message of unity emerged repeatedly throughout the celebration.
HAA President Sybille Louis noted that Haiti’s history remains a source of inspiration for Haitians both on the island and throughout the diaspora.
“We are born from people who were freedom fighters,” Ms. Louis said. “That spirit is still here.”
HAA Treasurer Jean Mondesir said that Haiti’s history serves their community not only as a source of pride, but also as a reminder of what can be accomplished when people work together toward a common purpose.
“Despite everything Haiti and the Haitian people have faced, if we can come together, we will succeed,” said Mr. Mondesir.
Their reflections echoed a central theme of the afternoon’s gathering: that history is not simply a catalog of memories, but a resource for the future: one to learn from, use, and carry forward.
