TAMPA, Fla. — Jan. 1 isn’t just New Year’s Day, it is also Haitian Independence Day. After a 13-year revolution, Haiti gained its independence from France on Jan. 1, 1804.

It has been 221 years since Haiti became the first Black republic, and since then, the diaspora has celebrated with the ‘Freedom Bowl,’ also known as Soup Joumou.

The hearty Haitian soup is made from pumpkin, squash, beef, and a mix of vegetables and spices, some sourced directly from Haiti.

“This is all the vegetables,” said Polinice Pierre, who owns Klas-La Restaurant in Tampa

During the pandemic, Pierre retired from the field of nursing to open the restaurant.

“To serve not only the Haitian community but all the cultures,” he said.

He’s preparing the soup for New Year’s Day — a traditional meal to celebrate Haitian Independence Day. Soup Joumou was once a delicacy reserved only for slave owners. That all changed after Haiti won their revolution.

“That’s one thing we are so proud of,” said Pierre.

Pierre asserts that the new year presents an opportunity to reflect.

“It’s a lot in a short period of time,” he said.

Looking back, he says 2024 has been one of the most challenging years for the nation and its diaspora. The country is still trying to stabilize its government amid increased gang violence.

“We have to think about the people in Haiti who are suffering right now,” said Pierre.

Pierre mentions that cancelled flights have also stalled the import of certain Haitian products to his store.

“It’s hard to find them right now, and the price has tripled,” he said.

Pierre said he tries not to focus on what he can’t control, but plans to approach 2025 with more purpose and intention.

“Hopefully, Haiti will be good one day so I can bring my kids and grandkids to show them where I came from,” he expressed.

Until that happens, he said he will continue to bring a taste of home to Tampa.

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization has added the Haitian soup to its ‘Intangible Cultural Heritage List.’