n May 18th
at City Hall, New York City Council Members Yvette Clarke, Kendall
Stewart and Leroy Comrie, joined by Speaker Gifford Miller, hosted the
City Council’s third annual Haitian Flag Day celebration. This year they
also commemorated the anniversary of Haiti’s independence.
Speaking
for all of her colleagues, Clarke stated, "We are delighted to celebrate
Haitian culture and mark 200 years of independence. As the first free
Black republic in the modern era, Haiti has served as a source of
historical pride for the people of the African Diaspora. It is only
fitting that the City Council honor Haitian-American citizens of this
City who are indicative of the positive contributions made by this
community."
This year’s special honoree was the late Haitian freedom fighter Jean
Dominique, who, as Clarke stated, "was deeply admired for his
unquenchable faith in the struggle for human rights and freedom of
expression. He still remains a powerful and unique voice for social and
economic justice for all Haitians and Haitian Americans."
Dominique’s
efforts to foster democracy in Haiti through Radio Haiti Inter and his
subsequent assassination are told of in the recently released Jonathan
Demme documentary "The Agronomist".
Receiving the City Council proclamation was his widow, Michele Montas,
who said, "I am proud to be here to accept this on behalf of my husband,
a free man."
Seven other very worthy Haitian individuals and one company were also
honored. Council Member Comrie awarded proclamations to Reginal
Souffrant, the founder of the Haitian American Cultural Development
Network (HACDEN), and Harold Dasque, Executive Director of
Haitian-Americans United for Progress.
Next,
Council Member Stewart honored Adrien Bateau, who holds the very
responsible position as Maintainer of Equipment at the New York Stock
Exchange, and Ernest Borno, the great grandson of the late Louie Borno,
President of Haiti. Ernest Borno, who speaks four languages, is the Vice
President of the Glendale Civic Association and coaches troubled teens
at the Brevoort Housing Development.
The
final proclamations, awarded by Council Member Clarke, were given to
Emeline Michel, the reigning queen of Haitian music; classically-trained
pianists and brothers Nerva and Robinson Altino; and the Brooklyn-based
newspaper the Haitian Times. Its publisher Garry Pierre-Pierre
accepted the proclamation.
Interspersed throughout was terrific entertainment, some performed by
the honorees themselves, as when the Altino brothers each played the
piano and Emeline Michel sang, so gorgeously, "Haiti Mon Cheri". Further
music was provided by Felina Backer, Barbara Sainsurin and the
multi-cultural Peace of Heart Choir. The Mikerline Dance Troupe also
performed two folkloric dance pieces, and spoken word artist Wasnard
Victor read his "Chabon Nan Dife" ("Coal in the Fire.")
The evening ended with a reception in the City Hall Rotunda at which
abundant and delicious Haitian food was served, and attendees were able
to view a wonderful display of artwork provided by the world-renown
Haitian artist Patrice Piard.
