Haitian Heritage Month is a nationally recognized month and offers an opportunity to enjoy the rich culture, distinctive art, delicious food and to learn the traditions of Haiti and its people. The celebration is an expansion of the Haitian Flag Day on May 18th, a major patriotic day celebration in Haiti and the Diaspora. An interesting fact about Haitian Heritage month is that it was first celebrated in Boston, Massachusetts in 1998!

Haiti gained its independence from French colonizers in 1804 and was the first Black republic in the world to free itself from colonial rule. Haitian culture is a mix of Taino and African traditions blended with European elements, due to French colonization. Today, the Haitian community exhibits these nuances of their history through their art, literature, costumes, faith, and life.

For more information about Haiti and Haitian culture, check here.