By Dessalines Ferdinand _____
North Miami Beach, FL -— The 2025 Haitian Heritage Month celebration officially opened on Wednesday, April 30, with a prestigious outdoor luncheon at the historic Ancient Spanish Monastery in North Miami Beach. From 7 p.m. to midnight, guests gathered in the beautifully landscaped gardens of this iconic venue to honor Haiti’s rich history, cultural resilience, and enduring contributions to South Florida. Hosted with elegance and pride, the evening marked the ceremonial beginning of a month dedicated to reflection, recognition, and celebration of Haitian heritage.
Now in its 25th year, Haitian Heritage Month has become a cornerstone of South Florida’s cultural calendar since its inception in 2001. What began as a community-driven effort to honor Haitian Flag Day has since evolved into a full month of events, showcasing the arts, education, civic engagement, and the enduring impact of the Haitian diaspora. This year’s launch was proudly sponsored by the Office of Miami-Dade County Commissioner for District 2, Marleine Bastien, continuing a long-standing tradition of public support and community empowerment.
The outdoor celebration took place under a large, well-decorated tent, surrounded by the peaceful gardens of the monastery. With seating for over 300 guests, the venue featured beautifully decorated tables adorned with floral accents and subtle nods to Haitian heritage. The ambiance blended formality with cultural pride, enhanced by the attendees’ thoughtful attire—many of whom wore blue and red, proudly reflecting the vibrant colors of the Haitian flag. This unified display of respect and national pride added a poignant visual harmony to an evening dedicated to honoring Haiti’s rich legacy.
Between 7 p.m. and 9 p.m., guests were treated to a delightful cocktail reception featuring a variety of hors d’œuvres and refreshing drinks—creating a warm and inviting prelude to the evening’s official program.
Dr. Sherley Plantain Sets the Tone with a Message of Pride, Resilience, and Unity
As the clock approached 9 p.m., anticipation gave way to ceremony when Dr. Sherley Plantain, serving as Mistress of Ceremonies, took the stage to warmly welcome the audience. With her signature blend of grace and eloquence, she set the tone for the evening by emphasizing the deeper meaning of the gathering—not merely as the official launch of Haitian Heritage Month, but as a moment of reflection, identity, and unity across generations.
Her remarks evolved into a stirring message that resonated throughout the venue. Acknowledging the current turmoil in Haiti, she offered words of strength and affirmation:
“I would be remiss if I did not remind you that despite what the beautiful island of Haiti is currently enduring, I have a message for us: Haiti pap peri. Haiti nap kenbe janm! E nap kontinye leve!”
She translated for emphasis: “Haiti will not fail. Haiti will stand strong, and we will continue to rise.”
Her call was both poetic and political—a reminder of ancestral sacrifice and a declaration of hope. “Let us remember why we stand here. Let us remember the shoulders upon which we stand… because that’s what makes us great,” she concluded to warm applause.
An Invocation for Hope, Courage, and Unity
Following her opening remarks, Dr. Plantain invited Bishop Joanem Frandy Floreal—known as Pastè Fanfan of Shalom Community Church in North Miami—to deliver the evening’s invocation, grounding the celebration in reflection and spiritual unity.
“We ask you, Father, for your guidance and blessings. God of might and God of power, in this time of great uncertainties, in this time of multiple challenges for us as a people, both in Haiti and the diaspora.”
Many stood silently, heads bowed, as he continued:
“I pray that You give us courage—courage to stand strong in the face of adversity. May the seeds of change we sow today bring forth a harvest of hope, love, peace, unity, and prosperity for generations to come.”
He concluded by offering a special blessing to Commissioner Bastien:
“Father God, I pray that you open the floodgates of heaven and pour out your blessings—your countless blessings, your overflowing blessings—upon our dear Commissioner, our beloved Commissioner Marleine Bastien.”
Local singer Linda ‘Porsha’ Estimé graced the audience with her beautiful voice as she delivered stirring renditions of both the American and Haitian national anthems.
Commissioner Bastien Honors Heritage, Confronts Crisis, and Calls for Collective Action
With visible emotion and deep pride, Commissioner Marleine Bastien—lead sponsor and principal organizer of the event—took the stage to welcome the well-dressed attendees. “If you could see my heart,” she said, “you would see that it is overflowing with joy.” She thanked elected officials, community leaders, and family, including her mother, who despite not feeling well earlier in the day, insisted on being present for the official launch.
Commissioner Bastien painted a sobering picture of the current crisis in Haiti: widespread insecurity, economic collapse, hunger, and displacement. “When I tell you the situation is dire, it is,” she said, lamenting the inability of children to attend school and families to move freely in their communities. But she stood not in despair, but in hope—citing Haiti’s revolutionary legacy of courage and resistance. “Our history has never been one of defeat,” she affirmed, “but one of resilience and determination.”
Framing this year’s theme, “Reclaiming Tomorrow and Sowing the Seeds of Change,” Bastien delivered a powerful call to action. She urged attendees to recommit to the values of dignity, sovereignty, and self-determination, and celebrated Haiti’s role as a trailblazer in global liberation movements. “That revolutionary spirit lives in every one of us,” she said, “especially right here in our great Miami-Dade County.”
A Champion of Solidarity: Mayor Levine Cava Stands with the Haitian Community
Miami-Dade County Mayor Daniella Levine Cava followed with remarks that reaffirmed her longstanding commitment to the Haitian community—and her close friendship with Commissioner Bastien. “She fights so passionately for the Haitians—but really for all of us,” said the Mayor. Her words emphasized a partnership rooted not only in political alignment, but in shared values of equity, freedom, and justice.
While celebrating the culture, music, and food that define Haitian Heritage Month, the Mayor reminded attendees of the urgent crises facing Haiti and called for continued advocacy. She also highlighted local efforts to secure Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians, crediting Commissioner Bastien’s leadership. “That was a beautiful day,” she recalled, noting the county’s active role. “We are together going to fight for a brighter future for Haiti and all of our Haitians at home and abroad.”
Civic Leaders and Community Figures Show Strong Support
The event drew an impressive gathering of elected officials, both current and former, underscoring Haitian Heritage Month’s lasting civic and cultural impact. All four members of the North Miami City Council (Kevin Burns, Kassandra Timothee, Mary-Estimé Irvin, Pierre Frantz Charles) were in attendance, reflecting strong municipal support. Leadership from North Miami Beach, the host city, was also well represented. The presence of prominent Haitian-American community figures added to the evening’s gravitas, including former State Senator Daphné Campbell, former Broward County Mayor Dale Holness, former North Miami Mayor André Pierre, Dr. Marjorie Lozama, Ringo Cayard, Paola Pierre, Jean Patrick Maignan, Djenane Gourgue, Prinston Jean-Glaude, Marckenson Jeanty, Dr. Naomi Blemur, and Joann Milord. Their participation highlighted the milestone nature of this 25th anniversary celebration.
Vice Chair McGhee and Commissioner Gilbert Amplify the Call for Justice and Haitian Self-Determination
Among the evening’s distinguished speakers were Miami-Dade County Vice Chair Kionne McGhee and District 1 Commissioner Oliver Gilbert III, who expressed strong solidarity with the Haitian community. Vice Chair McGhee praised Commissioner Bastien’s leadership and reaffirmed the importance of unity during times of crisis.
Commissioner Gilbert delivered a particularly urgent address, focusing on the flow of weapons into Haiti. “A Haitian issue is an American issue,” he stated. “It’s not just an American issue, it’s a human issue.” He called for an end to U.S. gun exports to Haiti and emphasized that real change will require unified and sustained action. “It’s going to take all of us… echoing the idea that we can do better for Haiti—and we must.”
Fashion, Flavor, and Festivity Celebrate Haiti’s Rich Cultural Legacy
As formal remarks concluded, the event transitioned into a celebration of Haitian culture. Guests were treated to a fashion show directed by renowned Haitian designer Felicia Dell, known for her Vèvè Collections, whose work blended contemporary style with traditional Caribbean elegance. Her showcase paid tribute to the creativity and vibrancy of Haitian fashion.
Meanwhile, guests enjoyed a variety of delicious Haitian dishes, bringing the spirit of the island to life through its rich culinary traditions. The evening ended with live performances by Samba Eddy François, formerly of Boukman Eksperyans, and popular kompa band T-Vice, whose rhythms filled the dance floor. Commissioner Bastien herself joined in the celebration, dancing joyfully among guests. To close the musical program, the electrifying ensemble Rara Lakay brought the spirit of traditional Haitian street music to life—filling the garden with the sounds of drums, horns, and celebration.
Community Leadership and a Month of Celebration Ahead
Special recognition goes to Saindy Dorsainvil and her team, whose tireless efforts and flawless execution made the night’s success possible. As the lead community organizer, she ensured the event’s smooth logistics and deep cultural authenticity.
This inaugural celebration marks the beginning of a month-long series of activities across South Florida. The Little Haiti Cultural Complex will serve as a major hub, hosting performances, exhibits, and educational programming throughout May. As Haitian Heritage Month continues, Le Floridien proudly extends its warmest wishes to all:
Happy Haitian Heritage Month—may this be a time of pride, remembrance, and unity for Haitians everywhere.
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Captured Moments of Elegance and Pride
To bring the spirit of the evening to life, professional photographer Ricardo Saint-Cyr was on the scene, skillfully capturing some of the most memorable moments of the 2025 Haitian Heritage Month opening ceremony. From candid smiles to cultural highlights, his lens preserved the energy, elegance, and unity that defined this unforgettable night. Enjoy a selection of images that showcase the beauty and pride of our community celebration.
