In 2023, the City of Philadelphia proudly declared May as Haitian Heritage Month — a joyful tribute to the vibrant, diverse, and flourishing Haitian communities that call Philadelphia home. From small business owners to cultural leaders, Haitians have woven themselves into the very fabric of this city, helping build it into the place we all love today.
To mark this special month, the Office of Immigrant Affairs sat down with three wonderful Haitian Heritage Month event organizers. We had the pleasure of connecting with representatives hosting events at City Hall, the warm and welcoming team at the Haitian Multicultural Heritage of Philadelphia planning events at Max Myers Playground, and the passionate folks hosting programs at the University of Pennsylvania’s Kislak Center.
Q: What does Haitian Heritage Month mean to you?
“Kola lakay, Haitian brands in stores, the Art museum, Philly Phlag Phest, gwo papa drapo Haiti, chapo pay, karabela, Fritay, DIY Haitian outfits, Rara, futbol, Fèt Manman, Parades, Zoes, Boukman, Majorettes, pate kòde, dans folklore, Dessalines and more,” said Yoline Scutt, Secretary of Haitian Multicultural Heritage of Philadelphia. “It’s when we give honor to our descendants who trailblazed Black freedom that began with our flag. Our symbol of resilience, pride, and motto of ‘L’union ait la force’ revolutionized the world.”
“Haitian Heritage Month is a time to honor our history, celebrate our resilience, and uplift the beauty of Haitian culture,” said Irma Wilson. “It is also a moment to recognize the contributions of Haitians, Haitian Americans across generations, and across the world.”
“Haitian Heritage Month is directly tied to resilience and pride,” said Debora Reaves Charmelus, Cultural Producer and Strategist. “Haiti has contributed amazing things to Latin America, the greater diaspora, and to world history. Haitian Heritage Month is a time to celebrate Haiti’s enormous contributions.”
Q: What does your event want to highlight about Haitian heritage?
“Our annual ‘Fête du Drapeau Festival’ highlights our culture and traditions,” said Yoline Scutt. “Haitian Multicultural Heritage of Philadelphia demonstrates partnership by recognizing influential, service-driven people who continue to maintain our culture through community events, professional-led workshops, and city partnerships in the community and tri-state area—all while providing a space for at-risk youth to socialize and grow.”
“Our event highlights Haiti’s living history of resistance and resilience,” Debora Reaves commented, regarding Haitian Flag Day at the University of Pennsylvania. “Haiti’s political and economic crises are direct results of foreign intervention into Haiti, and our event will shine a spotlight on how Haitian people have resisted intervention and built the country.”
“Our event aims to highlight the pride, unity, and cultural richness of the Haitian community in Philadelphia,” Irma Wilson stated about Haitian Flag Day at City Hall. “We want to showcase our traditions, our artistry, and the strength of our shared identity.”
Q: How are you supporting Haitian and Haitian American communities?
“We build strong relationships with growing organizations and communities,” said Yoline Scutt. “Economic empowerment, cultural engagement, and other initiatives allow us to support Haitian businesses and programs uplifting Haitians, Haitian-Americans, allies of the Haitian diaspora, while focusing on young people in Haitian, Caribbean, and Black communities.”
“I support Haitian and Haitian American communities through creative action and cultural organizing,” said Debora Reaves Charmelus. “Campaigns like Black Alliance for Peace’s ‘Zone of Peace’ Campaign highlight how our Americas—North America, Latin America, and the Caribbean—can be transformed into zones of peace through grassroots action against militarization.”
“We support Haitian and Haitian American communities by creating spaces for cultural celebration, visibility, and connection,” said Irma Wilson. “Through community engagement, partnerships, and advocacy, we work to ensure that our heritage is honored and our voices are heard.”
More event details below:
Haitian Flag Day Flag raising at City Hall
Hosted by Philadelphia Haitian Flag Day Committee
May 18, 2026 at 3 PM E.T.
Located at City Hall, 1400 John F Kennedy Blvd, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Haitian Flag Day Festival
Hosted by Haitian Multicultural Heritage of Philadelphia
May 16, 11:30 AM to 7 PM E.T.
Located at Max Myers Playground, 1601 Hellerman St, Philadelphia, PA 19149
Haitian Flag Day Cultural Celebration
Hosted by the University of Pennsylvania, Kislak Center
May 22, 5:30 PM E.T.
University of Pennsylvania, Kislak Center, Van Pelt Library, 3420 Walnut St, Philadelphia, PA 19104, 6th Floor
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