Haitians all over Come Out In Force
By: William J. Dorcena
From Boston Haitian Reporter June 2001

           Those of us who were lucky enough to be on Blue Hill Ave. on Mother’s Day got a taste of what it means to have pride. It is estimated that 20,000 Haitians filled the Ave. from Mattapan Square straight down to Franklin Field. At one point, I attempted to run to the start of the parade to take some photos. Fortunately, one of our fine contributing editors pointed out how far I actually had to run. So I walked. Every step of the way during this parade, you saw the faces and tales of a people who have been making our own way in the United States.
            When the parade ended at the podium, speaker after speaker touched on the contributions and the impact that the Haitian community has had in Massachusetts. What impressed me the most was the playing of both the US and Haitian national anthems and the roaring cheers that followed. Talk about a moment of awe- the band represented!
            As if this moment of amour propre was not enough, less than a week later, we were at it again. This time we took to Boston City Hall Plaza. Although the crowd was not as colossal, the swelling sense of community pride was just as strong. Hundreds of Haitian flags and American flags- flowered the hard-featured structure of City Hall. This day was a beautiful day indeed.
            So where do we go now? How do we use this energy to persist forward? The answer is really up for each individual to decide. Each of us should hold on to these wonderful days to inspire us in pursuing excellence in this country. It is possible to hold on to our roots and culture while integrating in these United States of America. What a beautiful Union!