Dessalines Day is observed in Haiti every September 20, commemorating the birth of Jean-Jacques Dessalines, a key figure in the Haitian Revolution and the first ruler of the Empire of Haiti. Dessalines, who declared Haiti's independence from France on January 1, 1804, is revered as the father of the nation for his role in abolishing slavery and leading the country to independence. In 2020, the Haitian government established Dessalines Day as a public holiday, allowing citizens to honor his legacy alongside his death anniversary on October 17. The day is marked by various commemorative activities, reflecting on Dessalines' contributions and the historical significance of the Haitian Revolution. This dual recognition of his birth and death underscores the profound respect Haitians have for Dessalines and his impact on their national identity.