Haiti Celebrates 220th Independence Anniversary

Haiti celebrated its 220th Independence Anniversary on January 1, 2024. Haiti made history by being the first country in the Western Hemisphere to abolish slavery on January 1, 1804. Slavery was abolished in the British Empire in 1838. Ancestors’ Day and Independence Day are commemorated on the first two days of the calendar year. Many extended well wishes to the Caribbean island nation, including the Secretary-General of CARICOM and the Prime Minister of Canada.

Secretary-General Dr Carla Barnett sent the following congratulatory message to the Prime Minister of Haiti, H.E. Dr Ariel Henry:

Honorable Prime Minister, the Caribbean Community congratulates the Republic of Haiti on the occasion of the Two Hundred and Twentieth Anniversary of Independence. The Community recognizes the historical significance and profound impact of Haiti’s attainment of independence in 1804. As a nation forged on the ideals of liberty, equality, and fraternity, Haiti has a long and proud history of unyielding strength and perseverance.

As a Community, we celebrate our shared identity and Haiti’s rich cultural heritage and diversity, capturing all our people’s creative, resilient, and unwavering spirit.  

CARICOM stands in solidarity and partnership with the Republic of Haiti in furthering initiatives to achieve a peaceful, prosperous, and sustainable future. 

CARICOM will remain steadfast in its support for Haiti’s welfare and the Haitian people’s efforts to overcome challenges and advance national development.

Just as the proud legacy of Haiti’s independence has shaped the Caribbean region, the stability and prosperity of Haiti is important for the furtherance of regional integration, security and the sustainable development of the Community at large.

Honorable Prime Minister, please accept our heartfelt congratulations and be assured of the Community’s continued resolve in working with Haiti towards building a shared future of peace, prosperity and well-being for generations to come.

Here is Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s statement on Haiti’s Independence Day:

“Today, we join the people of Haiti and Haitian communities in Canada and around the world to celebrate Haiti’s Independence Day.

“On January 1, 1804, the people of Haiti overcame over a decade of revolts and three centuries of colonial rule to set the country on an independent path. With this historic victory, Haiti became the first country to be founded by former slaves, inspiring hope for other nations striving for freedom and independence.

“Today, Canada is home to over 165,000 Canadians of Haitian ancestry who are deeply woven into our cultural fabric and make our country a more prosperous, diverse, and inclusive place. As we prepare to mark 70 years of diplomatic relations this year, we look forward to continuing to strengthen the bonds between our countries and our peoples.

“Sadly, over the last year, Haiti has suffered from worsening humanitarian, security, and political crises. Canada is deeply concerned about the expansion of armed gangs and the resulting violence and instability, which is causing great suffering to the Haitian people. That is why we continue to work with the Caribbean Community and other international partners to support Haitians’ efforts to restore peace and security in the country, meet its people’s needs, and set a path toward a brighter and stronger future. Canada will continue to advocate for Haitian-led solutions to restore stability in Haiti.

“Today, as we extend our best wishes to everyone celebrating Haiti’s Independence Day, we recognize the Haitian people’s bravery and determination in the face of challenges. Canada stands with them as they work to build a better future.”

  Haiti, Independence