Haitian Flag Day Celebration with NSK

The Haitian community recently celebrated Haitian Flag Day with a day full of meetings, cultural exchanges, and activities. Organized by the NSK association, this edition brought together more than 600 people, coming together to share pride in their heritage and promote Haitian culture within Canada.

Nadia Marseille, owner of Nadia C Shop, presented her stand highlighting Haitian products. “Today is a great opportunity to make our culture and products known,” she explains. She notably presented the national IM on stage and emphasized the importance of honoring the Haitian bicolor. The stand also offered a culinary tasting: chicken meatballs, lamb skewers, savory Laamu, rice, and plantains, prepared with the help of her family and friends. “Everything was consumed in record time,” she says, delighted with the success of the initiative.

Among the participants, Marline Harmony, creator of Duchesse Collection, showcased her handmade crochet accessories and clothing. She came to explore the event and plans to actively participate next year. “It’s wonderful to witness reunions among Haitians, especially when you are far from your country,” she notes.

Other speakers emphasized solidarity and community engagement. Madame Ni, a trained nurse, volunteers with CESUMAS and her autistic son to support local initiatives, such as collecting and distributing food to those in need. Meanwhile, Frédri, financial security advisor and founder of several support organizations, stressed the importance of celebrating Haiti’s freedom and independence while supporting her community.

The event also highlighted long-standing social activities within the community. Markal Saint-Tien, chair of the Haitian Canado-Québécois Association for the Underprivileged, recalled that his organization has been active for over 40 years, including weekly food distributions and summer camps for youth. “It is a great pride to see all Haitians come together to celebrate our flag,” he adds.

Municipal officials also praised the initiative. Philippe Termid, borough councilor in Montréal-Nord, noted that this holiday celebrates fundamental values such as freedom and independence. Suzanne de la Rochelliard, councilor in Saint-Léonard, highlighted the success of the organization and the participation of multiple communities, not just the Haitian one.

The day was energized by musical performances and Zumba classes led by instructors Ana and Elena. The involvement of children and families created a festive and unifying atmosphere, reinforcing community bonds. Denis Perrier, NSK ambassador and retired police officer, estimated that around 600 to 700 people of diverse backgrounds attended and that the event helped build connections beyond the Haitian community.

Among the artisans present, Fabienne Ber Mirbel, of G Bleu Famil Créaction, presented her new collection of clothing and accessories in jeans and faux leather, highlighting Haitian creativity and craftsmanship.

The NSK leadership expressed pride in seeing the community mobilize and send a strong national and international message. “We will continue to celebrate this holiday each year and promote our Haitian pride,” declared the president.

Finally, Member of Parliament Charlie Derissemon, Parliamentary Assistant for Social Services, highlighted that this celebration illustrates the resilience and solidarity of the Haitian people, as well as the importance of promoting and valuing Haitian culture throughout Quebec.