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Toussaint L?Ouverture High School?s Chief Operating Officer (COO) Major Joseph Bernadel Invited to White House Celebration Haitian Flag Day.

Published Friday, May 19, 2006

Toussaint L'Ouverture High School for the Arts and Social Justice (TLHS) is proud to announce its Chief Operating Officer, Major Joseph Bernadel, US Army (Ret.), has been invited to attend a celebration of Haitian Heritage Month at the White House in Washington, D.C. May 18.

The event marks the anniversary of a critical step in the slave revolution that led to Haiti's independence in 1804. Indeed on that day, Haitian revolutionary leaders created the Haitian flag by separating the colors from the French flag and reassembling them into what is today the Haitian flag-a symbol of liberation and freedom from oppression.

"In view of the ongoing debates about immigration in the US," said Bernadel, a veteran of twenty-two years of service in the US Army, "the White House is making a noteworthy effort toward recognizing the contributions made by Haitians throughout North America. This kind of diversity is what makes America strong."

While Bernadel marks the significant date in the US capital, TLHS, the school he co-founded in Delray Beach, will be celebrating in its own way. The day will begin with a program of essays, poetry, and music honoring the important cultural and social contributions of the Haitian people in Florida. In addition, the last period of the day will feature Haitian food, music and entertainment for all students and faculty of the multicultural school community.

In conjunction with the School District of Palm Beach County, TLHS will also displaying the photography exhibit, "Haitians of Florida: The Hope and the Future." For more information, contact TLHS at 561-495-9991.