Tags: 2023, Haitian Heritage Month

Flag day is a big deal in Haiti. It's similar to our 4th of July celebrations where the flag is a symbol of everything we honor about our country and when we celebrate our independence from colonial rule.  It's the same with Haiti. May 18 marks the day the red and blue Haitian flag was hoisted  for the first time in 1803 and symbolizes Haiti's independence from French rule.

**Interesting fact, the Haitian Revolution is the first and most successful slave revolt in the world.

From Brown University:

The Haitian Revolution was the world’s only successful slave revolt.

The Haitian Revolution was one of the great episodes of human history. Although perpetually overshadowed by the American and French Revolutions, which preceded and to a degree caused it, it forever changed the history of the world. It witness the first successful slave uprising, introduced the first African-led nation in the new world, and profoundly affected France, the United States, and the neighboring nations and colonies of the hemisphere.

Despite the political problems that have always beset Haiti, and seem to be besting the country at this moment, Haitians are extremely proud of their ideals of strength ("L'union fait la force") and perseverence.  Below are pictures of celebrations on the mountain.