The annual Haitian American breakfast and ceremonial flag raising to commemorate the May 18 Flag Day took place on City Hall Plaza last Friday (May 17) and was used as a vehicle to highlight young Haitian American artists and entertainers in the Boston area.

Hosted by City Council President Ruthzee Louijeune, the breakfast was well-attended and held outside for the third straight year – with sunny skies and warm temperatures accompanying the Haitian pate, hot coffee, and other foods.

Saxophonist Mike Desouvre, of Longy School of Music, stole the show with an outstanding instrumental performance of “Ayiti Se” accompanied by keyboard. The song focuses on all the beautiful places, food, and aspects of the Haitian culture.

Mhyeseline Mentor flashes a smile at classmate Micale Achille, who shoots “that look” back her way, before they sang the Haitian National Anthem during the annual breakfast on Fri., May 17. Both are students at the Toussaint Louverture Academy at the Mattahunt Elementary School in Mattapan.
Seth Daniel photos

The Toussaint Louverture Academy at the Mattahunt School in Mattapan brought their children’s choir to the event, and the students sang the Haitian National Anthem in Haitian Kreyol, as well as some other traditional favorites.

Louijeune said it was important to highlight all the “young creatives” in the diaspora in and around Boston, as they often get overlooked but contribute so much.

Offering remarks were Jean Dolin, the founder of the Boston LGBTQ+ Museum of Art, History, and Culture, and Fena Fenelon, founder of CEO of Sofenomenal Agency Group.

Those honored included: Elliana Arielle Grace Chery, Dolin, Desouvre, Obinna Ojima, Mothler ‘DeeJay Mot’ Dalexis, Daniel Francois, Fenelon, Alex Joachim, Alana Laforest, Therlande Louissaint, Kenny Mascary, Youveline Joseph, Nerlens Jean Michel, Skaina Saint Germain, Kenelly Cineus, Keyla Cineus Williams, Rebecca Zama, Ayide Sole, and Amos Jean.

The morning concluded with the ceremonial Haitian flag raising at the City Hall flagpoles.