Haiti’s fight for independence began in the late 18th century and culminated on January 1, 1804, when the country declared itself free from French colonial rule, becoming the first Black republic in the world. Before independence, enslaved Africans and the lower classes were forbidden from eating joumou (pumpkin or squash soup), a dish reserved for the French colonizers.

After independence was won, Haitians reclaimed the soup, transforming it into a powerful symbol of freedom and equality. Ever since, soup joumou has been an integral part of New Year’s Day celebrations, embodying the joy of liberation and the unity of a nation that overcame unimaginable odds.

​As the calendar turns to January 1st, Haitians around the world celebrate not just the start of a new year but a profound moment in history: Haiti’s independence. New Year’s Day is more than a holiday—it’s a day of pride, resilience, and remembrance, marked by the cherished tradition of sharing soup joumou. This hearty, flavorful soup carries centuries of history in its rich aroma, symbolizing freedom, community, and the enduring spirit of the Haitian people

At our school, we believe that every child deserves an education, no matter their background or circumstances. That’s why we’re proud to serve the children of Haiti, especially those facing hardship, displacement, and uncertainty.
One of our latest students, Stacy, a 10-year-old seventh grader, is a testament to the resilience of children in Haiti. Stacy arrived at our school just one month after we opened, but her journey to get here was anything but ordinary.
When Stacy and her mom arrived, they had no documents, no report cards, and no information to provide us about her schooling history. The reason? Stacy’s previous school had been forced to close only a few weeks after it opened, leaving her education in limbo.
Stacy’s family lives in Christ Roi, a neighborhood on the outskirts of Port-au-Prince that has unfortunately been overtaken by gangs. Fearing for Stacy’s safety, her mother made the brave decision to use back roads to bring her to Rodaille, a safer area where they could stay with a friend. Despite the challenges, Stacy’s mother was determined to ensure that her daughter could continue her education without interruption.
We are incredibly grateful that Stacy found her way to our school, where she now has the opportunity to receive a high-quality education in a safe and supportive environment. Stories like Stacy’s remind us of the importance of providing uninterrupted education for vulnerable children in Haiti—children who, despite facing unimaginable obstacles, still have dreams of a better future.
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