MASSACHUSETTS HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Linda Dorcena Forry
State Representative

            I want to congratulate Haitian Americans United, Inc. and thank you for organizing the sixth annual Haitian Unity Parade.  This annual event is something that my family and I look forward to each year as a special moment in our community.
            For me, the parade is particularly special because I have the honor of serving the 12th Suffolk District, which includes Mattapan Square, where the Unity Parade begins each year. I am very proud to represent the people of Mattapan, Milton, Hyde Park and Dorchester in the State Legislature.  
            So much has happened in Haiti over the last year and, for good reason, our hopes and prayers are frequently extended to our shared ancestral home. In addition to providing philanthropy, it is also critical that we, as Haitian Americans, take a leadership role in shaping United States and international policy towards Haiti. Collectively, we can be Haiti’s most important ambassadors, working to ensure that Haiti’s humanitarian and economic needs are not forgotten or neglected by the world.
            It is also important that we remain focused and engaged in what is happening here in Massachusetts.  Issues that profoundly affect our communities continue to surface and we must be willing to take a stand.  The immigration issue has become a national debate.  Here in Massachusetts, with the help of my House colleagues, we were able to secure $500,000 for a new program that is aimed at helping the 300,000 legal immigrants living in Massachusetts. Through this program, we will help these new Americans prepare for their citizenship exam and become fully engaged members of our state’s society and economy.     
            Even as we celebrate our shared heritage this month, we must remember to continue to reach out to those who are not Haitian and realize that we are part of a larger community.  I look forward to working with you in forming these partnerships.  
            Once again, let me congratulate the leadership of H.A.U. for their pioneering work in creating a celebration that all of us can be proud to participate in year after year.

                                                May God bless you and your families,
                                                State Representative Linda Dorcena Forry