A small community of Haitian Canadians in British Columbia commemorated Haiti’s Independence Day at a church by serving soup that represents freedom. This year marks 222 years since Haiti’s liberation from French rule, celebrated globally on January 1st. Traditionally, the day is honored by serving soup joumou, a dish made from kabocha squash, significant because Haitian slaves were once forbidden to eat it.
Approximately 50 Haitian Canadians gathered at the New Westminster Christian Reformed Church to observe this significant day, emphasizing its importance for Black communities worldwide. Debbie MacNab, attending her first major Haitian Independence Day celebration in 15 years, expressed joy at seeing many Haitian people together, reminiscent of celebrations back in Haiti.
The event was organized by the Canadian Haitian Cultural Association of B.C. (CHCA-BC), with Chef Elie Chery taking pride in preparing the symbolic soup for attendees. Chery highlighted the soup’s role in uniting and reconnecting the community, emphasizing the inclusion of carrots, cabbage, beef, goat meat, squash, and spices in the dish.
This year, Haitian Independence Day holds added significance as Haiti qualifies for the FIFA World Cup after more than 50 years. Saul Ferolus, president of CHCA-BC, underlined the day’s broader significance, representing freedom for Black people globally. Haiti’s history as the first Black republic, achieving independence through slave rebellion, stands as a symbol of liberation for all oppressed communities.
Ferolus emphasized the message of unity and empowerment, reflecting on Haiti’s independence in 1804 as a beacon of hope for oppressed people worldwide. He stressed the importance of collective action in overcoming societal challenges, regardless of background or culture.
