Mangano Commemorates 208th Anniversary Of Haitian Independence

Ceremony Honors Victims of 2010 Earthquake

Nassau County Executive Edward P. Mangano was joined by members of the Haitian-Americans United for Progress (HAUP) and Kompa Guide at an event commemorating the 208th Anniversary of Haiti’s Independence. The ceremony also honored the lives of tens of thousands of Haitians that died during an earthquake on January 12, 2010.

“When Haiti declared its freedom, Haitians made history, setting a precedent as the second country to declare independence in Latin America and creating the first post-colonial black-led nation in the world. Today, we continue to see the courage of that struggle reflected in Haiti’s response to the devastating earthquake that occurred on January 12, 2010,” said County Executive Mangano. “Despite all Haiti has endured throughout their history, Haitians have shown an unwavering strength, will, and passion to forge ahead and build a more prosperous nation. I salute the many contributions that Haitian-Americans have made to the culture and prosperity here in Nassau County and I wish all Haitians a happy Independence Day and hope that 2012 is a year filled with peace and progress.”

The event was moderated by Haitian-American poet/performer Michèle Voltaire Marcelin whose writings and performances in English, French, and Creole are praised and sought after. Haitian music, dance performances and gourmet meals illustrative of Haitian cuisine were also offered to guests.

“Haiti Day on January 11th shed light on the growing contributions of Haitians to Nassau County’s diversity and economic development. We are delighted to partner with Mr. Mangano in celebrating Haiti’s Independence and we look forward to a successful partnership,” said Elsie Saint Louis Accilien, Executive Director, The Haitian Americans United for Progress, Inc. (HAUP).

Gina Faustin, Executive Producer of Kompa Guide, added, “Many Haitian families including the Faustins settled in Nassau County in the early 1950's and have been in integral part of its evolution, and richness. Haiti's Independence Celebration will raise awareness to this remarkable population.”

Haitian-Americans United for Progress (HAUP) is one of the largest not-for-profit community-based organizations in the greater Cambria Heights area and Nassau County, serving approximately 15,000 people a year through a variety of programs and services that range from after-school and youth programs to remedial care for the elderly and the mentally-disabled. HAUP has risen from its inception 35 years ago as a small volunteer-based Haitian refugee and immigrant mutual assistance association into a service agency that reaches out to the broader community of immigrants and native-born Americans. HAUP is dedicated to providing a supportive environment through education, training, culture, networking opportunities, and other support services, that allow members of the community to successfully adapt and thrive.