222nd Anniversary of the National Bicolor: The International Consortium of Haitian Youth (CIJHA) Invites Youth to a Day of Debate

On the occasion of the 222nd anniversary of the Haitian flag this May 18, 2025, the International Consortium of Haitian Youth is organizing a day of debate and reflection around the Haitian bicolor. “The flag unites us, the historical heritage of our ancestors obliges us, youth commits,” is the theme chosen for this activity.

This initiative is taken, according to one of the structure's members, Dave Weitzlor Solitaire, to remind young Haitians of the importance, symbolic meaning, and history of the flag. “For years, we have observed an erosion of republican and historical values. The celebration of the bicolor is losing all its meaning. Young Haitians, adolescents, are unaware of the flag's value. We hope to raise awareness among young people about their responsibilities towards the nation, to encourage them to take their destiny into their own hands,” declared Solitaire, a member of the consortium and also a speaker.

Several Haitian intellectuals will speak at this conference. They include: Fresnel Larosillière, Lionel St Félix, Emmanuel Louis-Jeune, Carlos Roberto Deronceray, Jean Djerkens Don, Étienne Lubin, Dave Weitzlor Solitaire… It will be organized at the Ephraïm Club located in Delmas 41, starting at 10 AM.

Dave Weitzlor Solitaire expressed sadness about the situation in which the country is celebrating the 222nd anniversary of the bicolor. “I celebrate Flag Day with a feeling of sadness, of bitterness. Too many people are leaving their homes. They cannot get what they need. Insecurity is rampant. We cannot even go to Arcahaie to celebrate,” he lamented, while recalling that our ancestors fought solely to leave us a country where we could live easily in peace and serenity.

Despite everything, he encourages all young Haitians to unite, to come together around a common project, a common vision, in order to save this country which has been suffering for decades.

Gédéon DELVA