Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant Receives Surprise Honor at HAU Independence Day Gala

At the HAU 27th Annual Haitian Independence Day Gala, a powerful keynote address by Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant, President & CEO of the U.S. Haitian Chamber of Commerce, was followed by a heartfelt and unexpected moment of recognition that left the room filled with joy and excitement.

After his speech, Dr. Domercant was surprised on stage with a special honor presented by Nancy Accime, Vice President of Haitian Americans United (HAU). The announcement was met with smiles, cheers, and an outpouring of pride from attendees celebrating his leadership and service.

In his keynote, Dr. Domercant reminded the audience that Haitian Independence is far more than a celebration. “This is more than a party. This is more than tradition. This is a declaration—of who we are, where we come from, and why Haiti still matters to the world,” he said. Addressing Haiti’s historic impact, he added, “Our declaration of freedom was the spark—the fire—that ignited freedom movements for marginalized people around the world.”

Speaking to resilience and unity, he reflected, “Yet here we are—still standing, still building, still loving Haiti,” and later called for collective action, stating, “Progress happens when we organize, when we innovate, and when we refuse to accept limitations placed on us.”

The evening also included formal citations recognizing Dr. Domercant’s civic and community impact, including citations from Michelle Wu, Ruthzee Louijeune, and other elected officials and community leaders.

The surprise recognition reflected not only Dr. Domercant’s personal leadership, but also the collective work underway to empower Haitian-owned businesses and strengthen communities nationwide. Haitian Globe congratulates Dr. Hans Patrick Domercant on this well-deserved honor and celebrates the spirit of unity that defined the evening.

Vive Haïti. Vive la liberté. 🇭🇹