May 18, 2026: Frantz Elbé Calls for National Unity on the Occasion of the 223rd Anniversary of the Haitian Flag
On the occasion of the 223rd anniversary of the creation of the Haitian flag, Frantz Elbé paid tribute to the historic legacy of the national bicolor and called on Haitians to draw inspiration from the courage of their ancestors in order to strengthen unity, peace, stability, and harmonious coexistence in the service of national reconstruction. This was highlighted in a message published on May 18, 2026, by the former Director General of the Haitian National Police (PNH).
“As we celebrate May 18, 2026, we proudly commemorate the 223rd anniversary of the creation of the Haitian bicolor, a sacred symbol of our unity, freedom, and national sovereignty.
I wish all Haitian women and men a joyful Flag Day.
Our national bicolor represents far more than a patriotic symbol. It embodies the historic unity of the different groups within our society, particularly the alliance between freed men and enslaved people, who were able to set aside their differences in favor of the collective interest and courageously fight together against slavery in order to achieve freedom.
The Haitian flag also symbolizes responsibility, sacrifice, bravery, and the commitment of our ancestors to human dignity. Haiti remains a universal symbol in the fight against slavery, a historic reference for freedom, and a pioneer in the struggle for human rights.
On this special day, let us draw inspiration from our ancestors. Let us put aside our divisions, misunderstandings, and personal interests in order to prioritize unity in the national interest, particularly in favor of peace, stability, inclusion, and harmonious coexistence.
Haiti is great, and the task of national reconstruction remains immense. Everyone has a place in it, and everyone can contribute to the country’s recovery.
At this moment, which calls for reflection and collective responsibility, let us commit together to promoting dialogue, consultation, and sustainable solutions to address national challenges, with mutual respect and in the supreme interest of the nation.
Long live the Haitian flag!
Long live national unity!
And long live Haiti!
Happy Flag Day to everyone.”
Frantz Elbé, May 18, 2026
