FL H9057

Celebrates Haitians and Haitian Americans for their 208 years of history as of January 2012, marking Haiti's independence from European colonialism and slavery.

Recognizes Haiti as the first independent nation in Latin America, the first post-colonial independent black-led nation in the world, and the only nation to gain independence through a successful slave rebellion.

Notes the Haitian Revolution occurred from 1791 to 1804 in the French colony of Saint-Domingue and was declared a free republic by Jean-Jacques Dessalines in 1804.

Acknowledges that more than one-third of Haitians in the United States live in Florida and contribute to economic activity, cultural diversity, and vital services in the state.

Declares citizens of Haiti and Haitian Americans are celebrated for their 208 years of rich and moving history.