While the month of May is dedicated to celebrating Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage, it is also a time to recognize another important occasion honored by one of the largest communities in the United States and around the world. Haitian Flag Day is a national holiday in Haiti that commemorates the Haitian flag’s creation during the Haitian Revolution. Celebrated annually on May 18, the date marks the flag’s original adoption in 1803. In addition to being officially observed in Haiti, the holiday is widely celebrated in many cities with large Haitian populations, highlighting Haitian pride, resilience, and cultural heritage. Haitian Flag Day is celebrated by Haitians both in Haiti and across the globe. In Haiti, the grounds of the National Palace serve as the focal point for festivities. Abroad, Haitian communities honor the flag and the struggles it represents. In New York City, the Haitian Day Parade—launched in 2002 by the Haitian-American Carnival Association—takes place annually on the last Sunday of May along Toussaint Louverture Boulevard (also known as Nostrand Avenue). The parade is followed by a vibrant festival that showcases Haitian music, food, and culture.
Other U.S. cities also host celebrations throughout May in recognition of Haitian Heritage Month. Boston commemorates the historical struggles and cultural contributions of Haitians, while several cities in Florida, such as Miami, Tampa, Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Myers, hold cultural events. Miami’s MOCA Plaza celebration is especially notable, drawing prominent Haitian-American celebrities, artists, musicians, and public figures to honor Haitian heritage.
In the past decade, Haitian communities in the United States and around the world have made significant contributions to music, art, and literature. These cultural achievements have helped challenge long-standing stigmas and reshape the narrative surrounding Haiti—a nation too often seen solely through the lens of struggle rather than creativity. Haitian literature, in particular, offers a rich tapestry of voices that explore themes of history, identity, migration, and the Haitian experience. Acclaimed authors such as Edwidge Danticat, Frankétienne, and Dany Laferrière have brought international attention to Haiti’s literary heritage, delving into the complexities of both their homeland and life in the diaspora. Through this literary legacy, many young Haitian authors have found inspiration for their own work, creating compelling books for young adults and teens. These stories introduce readers to the rich culture and heritage of a country that many may never have visited but feel connected to through the stories of relatives, family, and friends who have experienced Haiti firsthand. By weaving together personal history and cultural pride, these authors offer a powerful glimpse into a vibrant nation, fostering understanding and connection for a new generation.
CONTEMPORARY FICTION
Title: American Street
Author:Ibi Zoboi
Plot: After immigrating from Haiti, Fabiola Toussaint is left alone in Detroit when her mother is detained by U.S. immigration. As she adjusts to life with her American cousins and a new school, she’s faced with a risky decision that could reunite her family—but at a cost. American Street is a powerful story about identity, resilience, and the true price of the American dream.
Title: Dear Haiti, Love Alaine
Authors: Maika and Maritza Moulite
Plot: After a school mishap, 17-year-old Alaine Beauparlant is sent to Haiti for a volunteer project. While working at her aunt’s nonprofit, she reconnects with her heritage, navigates family secrets, and uncovers a possible curse—all while discovering her own voice and strength.
THRILLER & MYSTERY
Title: Jackal
Author: Erin E Adams
Plot: When Liz Rocher returns to her mostly white hometown for a wedding, the bride’s daughter vanishes during the reception. As Liz investigates, she uncovers a chilling pattern of missing Black girls and a dark secret haunting the town. Now, she must face the evil lurking in the woods to save Caroline—and herself.
YOUNG ADULT
Title: Untwine
Author: Edwidge Danticat
Plot: After a tragic accident, sixteen-year-old Giselle wakes up in a hospital unable to move or speak, with no memory of what happened to her twin sister, Isabelle. As she struggles to piece together the past, Giselle must confront grief, love, and identity in a journey toward healing. Untwine is a poignant and lyrical exploration of family, loss, and resilience.
ROMANCE
Title: Charming is a verb
Author: Ben Philippe
Plot: Henri “Halti” Haltiwanger is a smooth-talking star student with big dreams and a secret side hustle. When his sharp classmate Corinne discovers his scheme, she blackmails him into helping her reinvent her image, sparking an unexpected friendship and romance. This is My America is a witty, heartfelt story about ambition, identity, and learning to be true to yourself.
Title: Simone Breaks All The Rules
Author: Debbie Rigaud
Plot: Simone, raised by strict Haitian immigrant parents, is bound by no-dating rules and curfews and must attend an all-girls school. Allowed to attend prom only with a parent-approved date, she and her friends create a Senior Year Bucket List to reclaim their high school experiences. As Simone checks off daring firsts—like sneaking out and choosing her own prom date—she faces tough choices about love, freedom, and which rules are worth breaking.