In a powerful display of unity and cultural pride, the Federation of World Peace and Love (FOWPAL) brought vibrant celebrations to Roselle, New Jersey, and Brooklyn, New York, in honor of Haitian Flag Day. The dual events, held on May 17, 2025, were filled with color, music, and inspiring messages that encouraged youth and communities to embrace values of conscience, integrity, and peace.
Hosted in front of Roselle Borough Hall, the New Jersey celebration marked the 222nd anniversary of the Haitian flag with participation from Mayor Donald Shaw and the Borough Council. The day featured lively traditional Haitian performances, heartfelt speeches, family activities, and a meaningful flag-raising ceremony that drew residents from across the region.
Dr. Hong, Tao-Tze, president of FOWPAL, led his delegation and delivered a compelling speech urging attendees to awaken their inner conscience and unite to build a harmonious and sustainable world. "With a calm heart comes wisdom," he said, emphasizing the need for global citizens to reconnect with their innate goodness. A symbolic moment followed as the Bell of World Peace and Love was rung to pray for Haiti and global peace, with dignitaries including H.H. Dr. Prince Mario-Max Schaumburg-Lippe participating in the ceremony.
Dr. Hong presented the Compass Clock of Conscience to several influential leaders, including New Jersey Assemblywoman Annette Quijano, Mayor Shaw, and members of the Borough Council. The clock symbolizes time and direction, serving as a reminder that conscience guides humanity toward truth and progress. Attendees were also invited to endorse the Declaration of Transparency and Integrity, reinforcing society’s need for honest and cooperative governance.
Later in the day, FOWPAL hosted a youth-focused celebration at Pathways College Preparatory School in Brooklyn, where they combined the cultural spirit of Haitian Flag Day with messages of global unity. The event featured a basketball game interwoven with dynamic music and dance performances, including "Happiness Is Everywhere," "The Angel in Your Heart," and "The Power of Peace and Love."
These performances, designed to uplift and empower, resonated deeply with students and families. Musician Nicola Khoury led a passionate group rendition of “We Are the World,” reinforcing the day’s call for compassion, community, and shared responsibility.
Councilwoman Isabel Sousa reflected on the event's emotional impact, particularly the ringing of the Bell of World Peace and Love. "It was the 636th time it had rung," she said, expressing gratitude and awe for the historic occasion. “I will remember this day for many years to come.”
The dual Haitian Flag Day celebrations were more than cultural commemorations they were platforms to inspire change and plant seeds of hope in young hearts. FOWPAL’s initiatives exemplified its mission to spread values of peace, integrity, and unity, leaving a lasting impression on communities in both New Jersey and New York.
