‘Stronger Together’ Haitian celebration brings needed relief, hope to Ohio community

COLUMBUS, Ohio — A typical Thursday after work turned into a trove of memories as dozens of Ohioans gathered inside Culture restaurant to wave blue-and-red Haitian flags, move to konpa music filling and give standing ovations to honorees of a local Haitian celebration. Some embraced friends they had not seen in months. Others wiped away tears as speakers reflected on the struggles and triumphs of the immigrant families in the area. 

For many gathered on May 28, the “Stronger Together” Haitian Heritage Month Celebration was a much-needed moment of relief, pride and connection during a period of uncertainty.

This makes me happy,” said Rochelle Lubin, a Springfield resident, a wide smile on her face.

“I’ve been so stressed and overwhelmed with the TPS stuff in the news,” said Lubin, originally from Léogâne, Haiti. “Sometimes you feel alone. Tonight reminds me that we’re not alone.”

Lubin was one of about 50 community members, elected officials, business leaders and advocates attending the event, which sought to reaffirm support for the burgeoning community with awards, food, music and camaraderie. Beneath red and blue balloons and a large Haitian flag draped above the stage, celebration and concern coexisted in the same room. 

Amid the music, laughter and applause, conversations often returned to a more uncertain reality: immigration challenges, the future of Temporary Protected Status (TPS), and what lies ahead for Haitian families across Ohio. 

Still, the celebration — hosted by Teddy the Comedian and organized by entrepreneur and community leader Henry Saint Juste — was much welcomed in this part of Ohio that is home to the state’s largest Haitian population estimated at 30,000 Haitian immigrants. Community leaders say the broader community throughout Central Ohio has grown significantly in recent years through immigration, entrepreneurship, faith communities and family reunification, making events like Stronger Together increasingly important.

Relief, representation long overdue

Between the speeches, konpa dances, groups crowding for photos and children moving between tables, the event felt like part celebration, part reunion. For some attendees, it offered something many have struggled to find in recent months — relief and hope. 

Lubin said she almost stayed home that evening, but decided she needed to be around her community. And is happy she took the risk.

Other guests saw the gathering as a way to show representation that has long been missing.

“I came from New York, and I’m so happy Columbus has something like this for Haitians,” said Katichelle Dimanche, a parent of three. “My kids need to see this. For once, we’re being celebrated instead of talked about.”

“I want my children to know where they come from,” she added. “I want them to see successful Haitian people and understand that our culture is something to be proud of.”

Others viewed the celebration as a way to strengthen bonds.

“Mwen di Jezi mesi,” Mercilus Cherubin, a young IT professional said in Haitian Creole, meaning ‘Thank you, Jesus.’ 

“I don’t think the Haitian community is as close as it needs to be in Columbus,” Cherubin explained. “If we’re going to grow, we have to know each other. We have to support each other.”

Others echoed similar sentiments throughout the evening, who see such events as opportunities for networking, mentorship and community-building.

“This wasn’t just about having a celebration,” Saint Juste said. “It was about bringing people together, creating relationships and reminding our community that we are stronger when we support one another. When people leave here, I want them to feel inspired, connected and hopeful.”

Community leaders for fostering belonging

In keeping with the unity theme, the awards honored advocates and public officials who have stood with immigrant families. Speakers shared stories of identity, perseverance and belonging in Central Ohio. The awards reflected the breadth of leadership emerging from the Haitian diaspora and its allies, spanning business, government, education and public service.

Community attorney Jacqueline Downey shared stories about helping families navigate housing transitions and avoid exploitation during periods of instability. She spoke about her transition checklists to help families secure important documents, protect financial assets and maintain dignity during difficult circumstances.

“We are a family,” she said in her remarks. “We have to help each community. If people find themselves in a position where they need help, we have to step up.”

Other honorees were: Dr. Marie Duchenne, attorney and real estate professional, Smith François, president of WUH SAPS and Account Clerk II with the Ohio Attorney General’s Office, Guerline Saint Louis, WLC Tax Service LLC, Nytek Driving School and TCO Island Restaurant, Mayor Andrew J. Ginther, Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, State Representative Latyna Humphrey, Community attorney Jacqueline Downey and Columbus City Council Member Lourdes Barroso de Padilla. 

Barroso de Padilla reflected on her own family’s immigrant journey and the common experiences shared by many Haitian families. She spoke about the sacrifices immigrants often make in pursuit of opportunity and praised Haitians for choosing Columbus.

“People forget that immigrants made this country, and we continue to build this country,” she told attendees. “I know no braver, more resilient people than the Haitian people. Thank you for making us a better city. You will always have an ally who stands in solidarity with you.”

State Representative Latyna Humphrey, accepted recognition while stressing that advocacy should never be motivated by awards.

“When we speak up for people, Ohio wins,” Humphrey said. “We’re not doing it because we’re looking to be awarded. We’re doing it because it is the right thing to do.”

Humphrey said working with Haitian residents during the housing crisis at Colonial Village, she witnessed the resilience, courage and love among families facing displacement and uncertainty. She then addressed why she spoke out against false nativist claims and immigration policies affecting Haitian families. 

“When you are in a position to stand up for people, when you are in a position to utilize your voice, that is what you do,” Humphrey said. “I couldn’t sit back and be quiet.”

Marck Fequiere of the Haitian Community Network delivered the closing remarks, encouraging attendees to remain engaged, connected and committed to supporting one another. 

“Our strength lies in our unity. Let’s continue to stay engaged, support one another, and work together to build a stronger, more connected community,” Fequiere said.

As the crowd filtered out of Culture and the final photographs were taken beneath the Haitian flag, Lubin said she felt lighter than she had when she arrived.

For a few hours, the conversations were not about immigration deadlines or political uncertainty. They were about community.

“This is what we need,” she said.

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