Haitian American elected officials, community leaders, and cultural influencers gathered at the Museum of Contemporary African Diasporan Arts (MoCADA) Gallery + Café in Brooklyn on April 13, 2026 for “A Night for Haiti,” a vibrant celebration honoring Haitian football star Duckens Nazon ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Among those in attendance were New York State Assembly Member Rodneyse Bichotte Hermelyn, New York City Council Member Farah Louis, District Leader Josue Pierre, and Debbie Louis. Debbie Louis serves as assistant secretary of intergovernmental affairs at the New York State Executive Chamber and is an adjunct professor at York College.
The invitation-only event sparkled with excitement as media figures, civic leaders, and members of the Haitian diaspora gathered to joyfully celebrate Nazon’s achievements and Haiti’s long-awaited return to the world’s biggest soccer stage.
“It was a night for Haiti, a night of Black excellence, success, and resilience,” said Debbie Louis in an interview with Caribbean Life Newspaper.
Haiti is set to compete in the FIFA World Cup for the first time in over 50 years. The country’s only previous appearance was in 1974 in West Germany. Haiti officially qualified for the 2026 tournament on Nov. 19, 2025. They secured their place with a 2–0 victory over Nicaragua during CONCACAF qualifiers and finished at the top of their group.
With the nation eagerly preparing for its long-awaited return, the Brooklyn event shone as a vibrant celebration of Haitian pride and a heartfelt recognition of one of its most influential athletes.
Nazon, Haiti’s all-time leading goal scorer, is expected to play a key role for Haiti at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. He was recently honored with the Key to the City of North Miami Beach on April 11, 2026. This award recognizes his impact on international soccer and the Haitian community.
During the event, elected officials enthusiastically presented formal citations and proclamations in honor of Nazon’s outstanding contributions to the sport and Haitian national pride.
“Today we celebrate not only Haiti’s return to the World Cup after years of absence, but also one of the great players making this possible, Duckens Nazon,” said Josue Pierre, District Leader for the 42nd Assembly District.
Assembly Member Bichotte Hermelyn praised both Nazon and the Haitian national team.
“Duckens, we are here to honor you, and we honor the entire Haitian national football team, a team that embodies courage, that fights not just for victory but for identity,” she said. “Because of your leadership in 2026, the world won’t just hear about Haiti’s struggles; they will see Haiti’s strength on the world stage,” said Bichotte Hermelyn.
She added, “For 52 years, our nation has waited to return to the world’s biggest stage. Through trials that would have broken others, you have remained resilient. You are Haiti’s all-time leading scorer, and you represent courage and perseverance.”
Council Member Farah Louis highlighted the broader cultural significance of the moment.
“Tonight is not just about sports. It’s about pride, representation, and the global presence of the Haitian community,” she said. “As we look ahead to the World Cup, we are witnessing Haiti on one of the greatest stages in the world. That moment carries hope, history, and resilience.”
Nazon expressed confidence and pride as he prepared to represent Haiti internationally. “I am here to represent Haiti, to play and to win. My teammates are ready. We’re not afraid. The world will see Haiti,” he said.
Mabï Artisanal Tea blend, Haitian Powerhouse, Café, Pâtisserie & Bakery, and other cultural stakeholders presented the event. This reflects strong diaspora support for the Haitian athletes who will play on the global stage.
Organizers and attendees said the event joyfully celebrated athletic excellence and proudly honored Haiti’s vibrant cultural influence and far-reaching global impact. As Haiti prepares for the 2026 World Cup, leaders and supporters say the occasion bursts with more than sport; it stands as a powerful symbol of resilience, unity, and Haiti’s triumphant presence on the world stage.
The event featured a lively, curated reception catered by Rogers Burgers. Guests enthusiastically described the intimate gathering as impactful, celebrating the profound unity and pride of the Haitian community.
The event would not have been possible without Mickael Marabou, who played a significant role in bringing the evening together. Marabou is a Haitian-American artist, creative, and cultural ambassador. She is recognized for her signature “Afro Kreyòl” sound, blending Caribbean, Afrobeat, and global influences. Additionally, she recently made history as the first Caribbean artist to lead an Audiomack Connect event in New York City, further solidifying her impact on the global music and cultural landscape.
