Newsroom
16 Jun, 2024
Honoring the Haitian Flag and Addressing Immigration Stress:Event Recap
Honoring the Haitian Flag and Addressing Immigration Stress: Lakay Acces Sante's Event Recap
Date: May 18, 2024
Time: 12:00 PM – 3:10 PM
Location: Hillside Library
Attendees: New and long-time Haitian immigrants in New Jersey, alongside friends from various nationalities.
On May 18, 2024, Lakay Acces Sante orchestrated a moving gathering at the Hillside Library, dedicated to honoring the Haitian Flag and tackling the pervasive issue of immigration stress among Haitian immigrants in New Jersey. The event served as a beacon of unity, drawing together individuals from diverse backgrounds for a day of reflection, education, and community support.
The proceedings commenced with a warm welcome from volunteer Rose Natacha Joseph, followed by insightful moderation by Stephania. The atmosphere was further enriched by Mr. Joseph Yachniv's stirring rendition of the Haitian National Anthem, setting a tone of reverence and pride. Lukenson Francois, CEO of Lakay Acces Sante, then delivered a heartfelt opening speech, articulating the organization's commitment to serving the Haitian community.
Throughout the afternoon, attendees were treated to a series of enriching activities and presentations. Attizai.com's illuminating video shed light on the historical genesis of the Haitian flag, while another offered a captivating glimpse into the traditional celebrations of Haitian Flag Day in Cap Haitian. A highlight of the event was the interactive Kahoot game, which engaged participants in a spirited exploration of Haitian Flag history, fostering camaraderie and knowledge-sharing.
Dr. Ghislaine Meance, a distinguished psychologist from the Multicultural Counseling Testing Center, delivered a thought-provoking presentation on stress management. The session, which spanned 45 minutes, delved into the multifaceted nature of stress, its physiological and psychological impacts, and strategies for coping and resilience. Several attendees courageously shared their personal experiences, shedding light on the profound challenges faced by Haitian immigrants, from the trauma of gang violence to the everyday struggles of adaptation and survival.
In addition to educational sessions, participants indulged in interactive activities aimed at promoting holistic wellness and self-care. From learning relaxation techniques to engaging in personalized wellness assessments, attendees embraced the opportunity for introspection and growth.
The event culminated in a moment of gratitude and recognition, as Lakay Acces Sante honored Dr. Ghislaine Meance and Dr. Amanda Birnbaum for their unwavering dedication to the organization's mission.
In his closing remarks, Lukenson Francois expressed heartfelt appreciation to the attendees and reiterated the importance of collective action in supporting Lakay Acces Sante's initiatives. He extended invitations for continued involvement, including volunteering for ESL classes and health education workshops.
An evaluation of the event revealed overwhelmingly positive feedback, with participants lauding the organization, presentations, and the significance of the topics discussed. The success of this event underscores Lakay Acces Sante's unwavering commitment to fostering health equity and community well-being among Haitian immigrants in New Jersey.
Leave a Comment