Councilman Mathieu Eugene (D–Flatbush) celebrated New York City Haitian Day at Bowling Green in Lower Manhattan on Oct. 6. Students, clergy, and local community leaders joined the Flatbush politician for a flag raising ceremony of the Haitian banner, honoring the Haitian soldiers that fought for American independence.
The councilman said the celebratory day acknowledges the importance of Haitians in American history in current times, and in the past.
“Today we are going to celebrate the contribution of Haitians to American history, and we’re also going to celebrate the contributions of Haitians who currently live in the United States to the fabric of America,” he said.
Two years ago, City Council passed into legislation a resolution designating Oct. 9 as Haitian Day. It marks a significant date in Haitian and American history, commemorating the Battle of Savannah — an important combat during the American Revolution that more than 500 Haitian troops participated in.
Eugene said this fun fact of history was a moment of pride for Haitians everywhere, and should be recognized by the global community.
“This is such a wonderful moment, not only for Haitian people, but also for the friends of Haitians, and for people from the United States and those residing all over the world,” he said.
