On the eve of the 220th anniversary of the assassination of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, the Ministry of National Education and Vocational Training (MENFP) organized a day of reflection on the life of the founder of the nation on Friday, October 16, 2026, at the National School of Pétion-Ville.<\/p>

This celebration became an opportunity for MENFP officials to invite reflection on the legacy left by Emperor Jacques I. The event brought together numerous students from various public and private schools in the capital around the theme "In the spirit of Dessalines, let us work hand in hand for peace."<\/p>

In his opening remarks, the director of the National School of Pétion-Ville, Jean-Marc Charles, portrayed Jean-Jacques Dessalines as a remarkably heroic figure in the various struggles aimed at achieving the independence of the Haitian nation. "Dessalines reminds us of the battle fought by our ancestors for freedom, dignity, and independence of the country. This legacy invites us to reflect on the responsibility we have towards the nation," said Mr. Charles, urging every citizen to unite in the spirit of Dessalines.<\/p>

Speaking at the ceremony, the regional director of education for the West, Etienne Louisseul France, emphasized that this celebration should be seen as a "moment of reflection and awakening of our civic conscience." "This commemoration of the assassination of Emperor Jean-Jacques Dessalines offers us the opportunity to question our collective responsibility in building a fairer, more united, and more peaceful Haiti. The theme chosen for this celebration calls us to take responsibility in seeking and constructing the peace that our country so desperately needs," he asserted.<\/p>

More than a duty of memory, October 17 reminds us of an irreparable loss in national history, highlighted Mr. France. He took the opportunity to call for vigilance against divisions, arbitrariness, and indifference that ultimately render the suffering of others acceptable. "Let us honor Dessalines by giving independence a concrete meaning in our collective life," he echoed.<\/p>

The day was marked by exhibitions of photos of the founding father, cultural performances, and lectures on the life and struggle of Emperor Jacques I.<\/p>