Today, Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (D-Fla.) issued the following statement on Haitian Flag Day:
“Today in 1803, Haitian Revolution Leader Jean-Jacques Dessalines, with help from his goddaughter Catherine Flon, created Haiti’s first flag in the town of Arcahaie. On that day, Haiti was amidst its war for independence. As the proud Representative of one of the largest Haitian communities in Congress, I proudly commemorate this day alongside my Haitian constituents. The Haitian flag is emblematic of Haitian Pride. In my district, it can be found on the lapels of many Haitian-American leaders, inside Haitian-owned businesses and on various personal belongings.
“As we celebrate Haitian Flag Day, we must continue to stand with Haiti as it recovers from the January 2010 earthquake – one of the worst disasters in the Western Hemisphere’s history. As a member of Congress, I have worked tirelessly to make Haiti a priority and to address the issues facing Haitian-Americans. This week, I sent out an e-newsletter detailing my journey with the Haitian community, and I will continue to be a strong advocate for Haiti just as I have been my whole adult life.”
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Rep. Frederica S. Wilson is a first-term Congresswoman representing the 17th District of Florida, including Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward Counties. A former state legislator and school principal, she is the founder of the 5000 Role Models for Excellence Project, a mentoring program for young males at risk of dropping out of school.
