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RESOLUTION DECLARING THE MONTH OF MAY 2013 AND EACH YEAR THEREAFTER AS HAITIAN HERITAGE MONTH

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WHEREAS, Haitian-Americans constitute one of the largest minority communities in Miami-Dade County and make significant contributions to the cultural diversity and richness of the County; and
WHEREAS, the month of May is of particular historical relevance to Haitian-Americans in Miami-Dade County because that is the month in which: Miami-Dade County�s Haitian population celebrates Haitian Flag Day, a symbol of independence, pride, unity and individual liberty felt by Haitians all over the world; Toussaint Louverture, leader of the Haitian revolution was born; and the Congress of Arcahaie, a meeting of which established a united command of the Haitian revolutionary under the leadership of Jean-Jacques Dessalines >>took place<<1 ; and
WHEREAS, the Board desires to declare the month of May as Haitian [[American]] Heritage Month and to encourage observance of the month with appropriate exhibitions, ceremonies, celebrations, and activities,
NOW, THEREFORE, BE IT RESOLVED BY THE BOARD OF COUNTY COMMISSIONERS OF MIAMI-DADE COUNTY, FLORIDA, that this Board declares the month of May >>2013 and each year thereafter<< as Haitian [[American]] Heritage Month in order to encourage observance of the month with appropriate exhibitions, ceremonies, celebrations, and activities to recognize and honor the heritage, accomplishments, and contributions of [[Haitian-Americans]] >>Haitians<< to our community.