A Living symbol of Revolution, Identity, and Resistance: Our flag
Written by Team HAMREC
The opinions expressed in this article are based on the weekly discussions of the Haitian American Resources Committee members, a Haitian think tank.
HAMREC engaged in a lively discussion about the Haitian flag on May 17, 2025. Its rich history shows that our shared ideas, beliefs, and emotional energy are interwoven in the bicolor piece of cloth. The flag is not just a symbol but an egregore, surrounded by mystery.
The circumstances under which we inherited the flag are unique, from establishing a young nation's roots to the folktale of Catherine Flon’s hair strand, our national matriarch, who sewed the first colors together. She is honored in various ways, reinforcing her place in Haiti’s collective memory. However, the name Flon appears to have never been heard or seen again in Haitian archives. Twenty years ago, Nekita Lamour, a Haitian educator living in Boston, wrote an essay that raised doubts about her presence during the revolution.
In Haitian circles and historical debates among Haitians, the original color of the flag has always been a point of contention. The original colors were red and blue in 1803 when it was first conceptualized. It then became black and red under the empire of the founding father of the nation, Jean-Jacques Dessalines, who is revered as one of our most consequential ancestors. In 1803, during the Haitian Revolution, the original flag that emerged was a horizontal bicolor of blue and red. It came about when Jean-Jacques Dessalines tore the white stripe from the French Tricolore, declaring, "We have thrown away the white of the oppressors; let us unite as brothers under red and blue!" (Girard, 2010, p. 142).
The forceful nature of the color change is not just political; it was a ritualistic form of rejecting the old and replacing it with the new. Playing in the minds of the people of this young nation
Whether through sidewalk sales or high-profile sponsorships, the flag fuels an economy of nostalgia and nationalism, even as Haiti faces its struggles.
In many parts of the US and Canada, streets explode with energy before Flag Day. Cars adorned with oversized flags cruise past block parties; multiple festivals are organized to enjoy the moment. It is a rare form of expressing patriotism.
The Haitian flag serves as a backdrop for celebration, uniting people in joy despite hardship. For a few days, political despair fades beneath pulsating music and waving flags, proving that Haitians refuse to let crisis erase their culture. Yet beneath the revelry lies tension: while some view these parties as resilient, others criticize the commercialization of a symbol born from revolution. Still, whether in protest or celebration, the flag remains Haiti’s heartbeat.
Haitians possess a profound love for dancing that traces back to their African ancestors, deeply embedded in their history and culture. The energy and sense of togetherness generated by large crowds are appealing. Haitian culture centers around trance, music, and rhythmic dance, and sharing joy is a vital tradition. Yet, this spirit of celebration isn't exclusive to Haiti; it's a fundamental human trait stemming from our deep-seated need to connect with others. During those brief hours of street dancing, Haitians set aside their troubles and immerse themselves in the rhythm and community.
The Haitian flag is more than just history. The post-Duvalier era witnessed a commercialization of the flag. Today, Haitians continue to use the flag and its colors as marketing tools for business ventures and logos. There is hardly a Haitian website not adorned in red and blue, featuring a historic landmark or showcasing its products. Vendors capitalize on patriotic pride, especially in anticipation of May 18. They sell products ranging from T-shirts and caps to car decals and home decor, all blue and red. Even during times of crisis, entrepreneurs persist in marketing flag-themed merchandise, transforming grief and resistance into commerce.
Former President Michel Martelly has openly announced a parade on TikTok where he will perform. Even though his reputation has undoubtedly suffered due to the infamous mismanagement of the Petro Karibe fund. Profiting from Flag Day performances and activities shows how some politicians and organizations exploit the emotional appeal of the flag. We urge our fellow citizens to boycott the event and send a strong message of pride to those who continue to harm our country and tarnish our image.
Haiti’s current crisis of gang violence and political instability has not tainted the spirit of Bois Caiman. Haitians have nothing to hold onto except the piece of cloth they wear proudly wherever they go. It has become a shield of war. Artists who have made it on the international scene never falter in keeping the flag high and proud.
At this juncture in history, we maintain the blue and red. We reject the constant back-and-forth in changing our colors. Let’s focus on the more critical aspects of our society. Let’s unite around remaking Haiti a beacon of freedom, dignity, and respect worldwide.
Team HAMREC