CS/HM 935 Summary

• Urges the United States Congress to recognize January 1 as "Haitian Independence Day," commemorating Haiti's independence from French colonial rule in 1804 following a successful slave rebellion.

• Requests congressional recognition of May as "Haitian American Heritage Month" to honor the estimated 1.5 million persons of Haitian descent living in the United States and their contributions to American society.

• Seeks recognition of May 18 as "Haitian Flag Day," celebrating the flag created by General Jean-Jacques Dessalines at the May 1803 Congress of Arcahaie, symbolizing the end to European influence.

• Calls for June to be designated "Caribbean American Heritage Month," acknowledging the historical contributions of Caribbean Americans and building on the House's 2005 unanimous adoption and Senate's 2006 passage of a similar resolution.

• Directs that copies of the memorial be sent to the President, Senate President, House Speaker, and all members of Florida's congressional delegation.