Honoring Haitian Flag Day: Youth Reflections on National Pride and Progress

Le Flambeau Foundation , Inc.  May 17, 2025

At the Le Flambeau Foundation , we believe that national pride is more than a sentiment—it is a catalyst for transformation. As we commemorate the 222nd anniversary of Haitian Flag Day on May 18th, 2025, we are pleased to share insights from a recent discussion during our THE SPARK of Le Flambeau 5-week session. This past week, the focus was on the vital role of national pride in shaping Haiti’s future, and we’re happy to share the youth’s perspectives.  The following summary was prepared by the facilitator and Grader of this session, Ms. Alexis Floyd.

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The conversation brought together diverse voices who reflected deeply on the question: Is national pride essential for a country’s progress and success? The resounding answer was yes. For Haiti, a nation forged in the fight for liberty and justice, national pride is a powerful force that continues to drive resilience, unity, and hope.

Participants shared how pride in Haiti’s heroic history—the triumph over slavery in 1804 and the birth of the first Black Republic—serves as both a beacon and a responsibility. This legacy reminds us that Haitians have always had the strength to overcome adversity and chart their own destiny.

Our youth members also expressed immense pride in:

  • Haiti’s cultural richness, including its language, proverbs, music, literature, and vibrant traditions;
  • The natural beauty of the country, from its landscapes to its world-renowned agricultural products;
  • The resilience of the Haitian people, whose determination continues to inspire despite economic and social challenges;
  • Figures of national pride, such as scholars, athletes, artists who represent Haiti with excellence on the world stage.

However, these reflections also came with an important call to action. National pride, while deeply rooted in history, must be actively nurtured and translated into everyday contributions to national development. Pride alone is not enough—it must be visible in how we educate, create, serve, and lead.

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For our foundation and its partners, this dialogue reinforces the importance of our mission: to invest in the people, stories, and structures that uplift Haiti’s dignity and potential. It reminds us that when citizens are proud of their heritage, they are empowered to shape a future that honors the past while striving for progress.

On this Haitian Flag Day, we invite all our stakeholders—supporters, community leaders, educators, and youth—to continue cultivating and celebrating national pride. Together, we can channel this powerful force into lasting, meaningful impact for Haiti.

Le Flambeau Foundation , Inc

Honor the Past.  Invest in our Future.

### How to Get Involved

There are a number of ways to get involved with the Le Flambeau Foundation     As a supporter, you can donate to the foundation, volunteer your time, or become a mentor to a young person in Haiti.  Feel free to contact us by clicking here.