May 1 is Agriculture and Labor Day (Fête du Travail et de l’Agriculture) in Haiti. It is one of the most celebrated traditions in Haitian culture. It is a day to recognize and honor workers, farmers, laborers, and the deep agricultural history of the country.

Labor Day is celebrated across the nation with fairs and exhibitions showcasing the work of the farmers and laborers with displays of their produce, fruit, and livestock. The large regional marketplace, Gwo Maché Mirak, had events planned all weekend. Agronome Wilner, Director of our Agricultural Training Center (ATC), gave presentations at the marketplace about the long heritage of Haiti’s deep bond with agriculture.  Afterwards, he gave trees to the children to plant and take care of because schoolchildren traditionally celebrate the day by getting involved in planting trees, to learn to continue the traditions their parents had before them.

After the exhibits, presentations, and tree planting during the day, there was preaching and singing and celebration into the night. Last weekend was a great testimony to the many blessings God gives to those who faithfully call upon His name with praise and thanksgiving. Our marketplace, the ATC, and Farmer John’s Abatwa are examples of how our Development for Sustainability outreaches improve life for so many Haitian families. Thank you for supporting this work. God Bless you.

Rad Hazelip, Assistant Executive Director