EXPLANATORY NOTE

The Bill proclaims May 18 in each year as Haitian Flag Day.

Bill 295 2021

An Act to proclaim Haitian Flag Day

Preamble

May 18th represents an important date for the Haitian community.

During the Congress of Arcahaie in May 1803, military leaders representing divided segments of Haitian society united against the French colonial army. The white band was removed from the French flag, creating the first Haitian flag, a symbol of the alliance formed in the Haitian fight for freedom. 

This alliance, led by Jean-Jacques Dessalines, formerly an enslaved person, and Alexandre Pétion, a free person of colour, paved the way for the only successful slave uprising in the world and, eventually, the birth of a nation.

Celebrated in secret for decades, Haitians around the world now celebrate National Flag Day on May 18th, honouring the forefathers of the nation, expressing their national pride and replenishing their resolve for Haiti’s future.

Therefore, Her Majesty, by and with the advice and consent of the Legislative Assembly of the Province of Ontario, enacts as follows:

Haitian Flag Day

1 May 18 in each year is proclaimed as Haitian Flag Day.

Commencement

2 This Act comes into force on the day it receives Royal Assent.

Short title

3 The short title of this Act is the Haitian Flag Day Act, 2021.