Westchester County Executive Ken Jenkins and NYS Senator Shelley Mayer hosted a Haitian Flag Unveiling Ceremony at the Michaelian Office Building, bringing together members of the Haitian community and local leaders. The event, held in recognition of Haitian Heritage Month and Haitian Flag Day on May 18, honored the history and lasting impact of Haitian and Haitian-American residents in Westchester County.
Jenkins said: “The Haitian community is an essential part of what makes Westchester strong. Their contributions are seen every day, from small businesses to public service to the many ways they help support and uplift our communities. At a time of national division, we remain focused here in Westchester on bringing people together and recognizing the value of every culture. This ceremony was an opportunity to celebrate Haitian heritage and to reaffirm that Westchester is a place where everyone belongs.”
State Senator Shelley Mayer said, “I was honored to join the Haitian community and County Executive Ken Jenkins for a flag raising celebration recognizing Haitian Heritage Month. Westchester is home to over 5,000 Haitians-Americans, a significant portion of the diaspora within the New York ‘Tri State Area’. During this meaningful occasion, we celebrate the rich culture, history, and traditions of our Haitian-American neighbors. I am proud to stand with them in honoring their vibrant heritage.”
Westchester County Board of Legislators Chairman Vedat Gashi said: “The Haitian American community exemplifies what makes Westchester great — a place where cultures flourish and every community’s strength adds to our own. Today’s ceremony is a moment to pause and recognize the resilience, heritage, and contributions that Haitian Americans bring to this county. We are honored to raise this flag together and to celebrate a community that continues to make Westchester vibrant.”
New Castle Town Supervisor Victoria Tipp said: “As someone of Haitian descent, I was proud to stand with the Haitian community and local leaders in recognizing Haitian Heritage Month. This ceremony highlighted the importance of celebrating our shared heritage while also recognizing the many contributions Haitian and Haitian-American residents make across Westchester.”
Haitian Heritage Month is observed each May and builds on the commemoration of Haitian Flag Day. The Haitian flag, first adopted in 1803, stands as a symbol of independence, unity and resilience, values that continue to resonate within the Haitian community today.
Westchester County continues to celebrate its diversity and promote inclusion through events and initiatives that bring communities together and recognize the contributions of residents from all backgrounds.