A SPECIAL SALUTE TO HAITI’S BICENTINNIAL CELEBRATION
By: Dr. Marco A. Mason

That we should all join in celebrating Haiti’s Bicentennial of Independence is imperative. Two hundred years ago, the tiny Island of Haiti achieved a unique feat in world history. It became the first independent Black Republic, the first and only successful revolution of Black slaves anywhere in the world, and the first country to abolish slavery.

The mere fact that Toussaint L’Overture, a slave from a tiny Caribbean Island defeated the powerful Napoleon Bonaparte from the French Empire is an inspiring and triumphant accomplishment.

Haiti’s legacy stand as a proud and unambiguous reminder that the increasing struggle for freedom remains the world’s only guarantee of the survival of human dignity and human rights for all. Because of this unique gift to freedom –loving people everywhere, the Haitian Revolution for freedom, national liberation and democracy transcends its borders, and inspired generations of Caribbean, Latin Americans, American slaves, abolitionists and oppressed people of all races and persuasions throughout the world.
Moreover, Haiti’s Bicentennial has special significance for the United States of America because the successful revolution in Haiti facilitated the Louisiana Purchase. This paved the way for the United States to expand territorially from its original thirteen eastern seaboards states on the Atlantic by moving westward to the Pacific shores.


Therefore, the celebration of Haiti’s Bicentennial of Independence in January 2004, provides an excellent opportunity for all to reflect on the gifts of Haiti to the world, which are embodied in the principles of democracy, freedom, human dignity, human rights, equality and sovereignty.