Christopher Scott:
As voices rose in prayer inside the Christian Cultural Center in Brooklyn, a powerful message of unity, remembrance, and purpose echoed through the gathering: freedom must be defended beyond borders. The sanctuary became the site of a moving prayer vigil and rally for Haiti, organized by the National Action Network (NAN), where faith leaders, elected officials, and community members came together to stand in solidarity with the Haitian people amid ongoing political and humanitarian crisis.
Held in honor of Juneteenth, the event highlighted the connection between the historical emancipation of African Americans and Haiti’s legacy as the first free Black republic. The gathering sought not only to commemorate freedom but to mobilize awareness and compassion for a nation in turmoil.
Rev. Al Sharpton, President and Founder of NAN, addressed the audience with a call for moral clarity and collective responsibility. He emphasized that Haiti’s current struggle must not be ignored and urged attendees to recognize the parallels between past and present fights for justice. His presence underscored NAN’s commitment to international human rights as part of its broader mission.
Also present was New York State Attorney General Letitia James, who spoke passionately about the need for solidarity and sustained support for Haiti. She reminded attendees that the fight for liberation and dignity is not confined to any one country or moment in time.
The event featured powerful interfaith participation. Among those offering prayers was Imam Muhammad Shahidullah, CEO of Save The People USA & a faith leader, who delivered a solemn and heartfelt du’a in support of the Haitian people. In his prayer, he invoked mercy, healing, and global unity: “O Allah, replace fear with safety, replace despair with hope. Unite us as one humanity, so we may stand with Haiti not just in prayer, but in action, generosity, and love.”
The vigil also included contributions from pastors and clergy from across the city, all of whom spoke to the moral and spiritual imperative of standing with those suffering—especially during a time that commemorates hard-won freedom. For many, the night served as both a memorial and a moral checkpoint, reminding all in attendance of the ongoing work that freedom demands.
The program closed with a shared moment of silence and joined hands, a gesture that symbolized the evening’s message: that faith, when united across traditions, can become a powerful force for justice and change.
This Brooklyn gathering was more than a symbolic event—it was a solemn call to action rooted in history, faith, and shared humanity. By linking the legacy of Juneteenth with the present crisis in Haiti, the event reminded all present that the pursuit of justice must always extend beyond borders.
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