Haitian Heritage Month, and the pursuit of equal justice, celebrated at New York County Supreme Court
The court’s Equal Justice in the Courts Committee marked Haitian Heritage Month with a May 18 panel discussion titled “Haiti’s Legacy in America’s Path to Freedom: From Independence to the Rule of Law.”
Guests gathered in the Ceremonial Courtroom at 60 Centre St. for the program, which brought together legal professionals, scholars and members of the public for a conversation on Haiti’s historic and contemporary impact. They learned more about Haiti’s role as the first Black republic in the Western Hemisphere, and discussed how its revolution and independence shaped democratic ideals, legal frameworks and liberation movements throughout the Americas.
Panelists included François Pierre-Louis, PhD, professor of political science at CUNY Queens College, and Jean Eddy Saint Paul, PhD, professor of sociology at CUNY Brooklyn College.
The discussion was moderated by Lisa-Marie Pierre, PhD, of the New York County Supreme Court, who guided the conversation focused on Haiti’s contributions to the development of the rule of law and equal justice. The program was offered both in person and virtually, with lunch provided for in-person attendees.
Artwork by Frenal Mezilas was also displayed at the courthouse, adding a cultural dimension to the event and highlighting Haitian artistic contributions.
The Haitian American Lawyers Association of New York was among the event’s sponsors.
Attendees included several members of the judiciary, among them Hon. Shahabuddeen Ally, Hon. Mary Lynn Nicolas-Brewster, Hon. Valerie Cartright, Hon. Ben Darvil Jr., Hon. Philippe Solages Jr., Hon. Norman St. George, First Deputy Chief Administrative Judge Hon. Edwina Richardson, Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for Justice Initiatives Hon. Anne-Marie Jolly, Hon. R. Nadine Fontaine, Hon. Patricia Brimais-Tenemille, and Hon. Adam Silvera, Deputy Chief Administrative Judge for the New York City Courts.
