January 1st, 1804

Haiti becomes the first Black nation to gain freedom and Independence.

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For far too long, Haiti and its people have been subjected to negative stereotypes and systemic neglect—overlooked, misunderstood, and unfairly portrayed on the global stage. At the Mathurin Family Foundation, we believe in the power of narrative change. Jennifer and Bennedict Mathurin proudly embrace their Haitian heritage and are deeply committed to celebrating the richness, resilience, and beauty of Haitian culture.

Through visibility, representation, and community-centered initiatives, they aim to dismantle outdated narratives and uplift voices that reflect Haiti’s strength, creativity, and potential. Changing the story means changing the future—and we’re here for that change.

Haitian Independence Day

For the past three years, Bennedict and Jennifer Mathurin have proudly celebrated Haitian culture and Independence Day at Gainbridge Fieldhouse. Thanks to the incredible support of the KeyBank Guest Chef program and the involvement of the Pacers organization, hundreds of Pacers fans have joined in the celebration—many getting their first taste of the iconic Soup Joumou, a traditional dish enjoyed on January 1st to honor Haitian Independence Day.

Plates of assorted food, including fried chicken, beef, plantains, fried egg, and rice with vegetables, along with a bottle of soda, a bottle of juice, and a large soft drink cup on a wooden table, with lottery tickets and a magazine with a basketball player on the cover.
A colorful magazine or pamphlet celebrating Haitian Independence Day and New Year's, featuring a page with information about Haiti's history, celebrations, and a picture of a traditional Haitian dish called Joumou soup. The page promotes following the organization PACERS on social media and downloading their mobile app.
A table with various Takeout food containers, including skirt steak, chicken wings, and a soup, with Pepsi cups, a bottle of soda, and a game program with a basketball player on it, celebrating Haitian Independence Day.
Poster celebrating Haitian Independence Day, featuring a man in a basketball uniform, a Haitian flag, and text about Haiti's independence, Haitian culture, and traditional soup 'Soup Joumou'.
GAMETIME magazine cover featuring a basketball player in an Indiana Pacers jersey celebrating Haiti Independence Day, with logos of Indiana Pacers and Los Angeles Clippers, and a message wishing a Happy New Year 2023.
A woman stands next to a signboard promoting a guest chef program at a food court. The signboard lists menu items and a chef's name, with a bustling food court and people in the background.