By: Kelly Martins, Union County Director, Office of Communications
The Union County Board of County Commissioners proudly announces that the County’s first Haitian flag-raising will take place on Monday, May 6th, at 12:00 p.m. on the steps of the Union County Courthouse, located at 2 Broad Street in Elizabeth.
“We are honored to commemorate Haitian Heritage Month by hosting our first Haitian flag-raising event this May,” said Union County Commissioner Chairwoman Kimberly Palmieri-Mouded. “Union County is a unique community with a rich tapestry of different cultures. We are proud to bring this community together to celebrate the many different facets that make us who we are, and we hope you join us for this joyous occasion.”
Union County will proudly raise the vibrant and symbolic flag of Haiti for the first time, symbolizing unity, resilience, and the spirit of the Haitian people.
The event promises to be a momentous occasion, bringing together community leaders, dignitaries, residents, and members of the Haitian diaspora to commemorate this historic moment.
The ceremony will commence with opening remarks from Chairwoman Palmieri-Mouded, followed by an invocation from Pastor Eric Charles of the Peniel Church in Elizabeth.
Commissioners Michèle S. Delisfort and Sergio Granados will also give remarks, along with Miss Supranational Haiti 2024, Tara-Lynn Saint-Elien, and Marline Edmond, Chair of the Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J.
The flag-raising ceremony marks Union County's month-long celebration of Haitian history and culture.
This event is highly significant for Union County as it provides an opportunity to showcase the importance of recognizing and embracing cultural diversity.
An exhibit featuring the works of Haitian artists Haenley Pierre and Patrick Joseph will be available for viewing throughout the month of May at the Commissioners Gallery, located on the 6th floor of the Union County Administration Building in Elizabeth.
The gallery is open to the public free of charge from Monday through Friday between 9:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Residents are welcome to visit and enjoy the exhibit.
“As a commissioner of Haitian descent, I am excited about the upcoming events that will celebrate and recognize the history of Haitians and Haitian Americans,” said Commissioner Michèle S. Delisfort. “Our culture and influence have played a significant role in shaping this community into what it is today, and we couldn’t be happier to share this moment with all of you.”
The Haitian flag-raising ceremony was developed in collaboration with The Haitian Flag Day Planning Committee of N.J., Inc. (HFDPCNJ).
Union County is grateful for their local community outreach efforts.