Nassau County Legislator Carrié Solages (D–Valley Stream) attended the 17th annual National Haitian American Elected Officials Network leadership summit, held Jan. 30 through Feb. 1 in Washington, D.C.
NHAEON is a nonpartisan 501(c)(3) organization focused on education, empowerment and civic engagement to amplify the voice of the Haitian American community. The organization includes 170 elected and appointed officials — 77 current officials, 70 former officials and 23 judicial members — representing millions of constituents across 22 states and the District of Columbia while advocating on domestic policy, legislation and issues affecting Haitian Americans. Following his 2011 election, Solages became the first Haitian American to serve in the Nassau County Legislature.
In 2025, Solages was named NHAEON Member of the Year after gaining international attention for leading Haitian Americans and allies in protests against then-presidential candidate Donald Trump’s rally at Nassau Veterans Memorial Coliseum and condemning what he described as racist and false statements about Haitians.
The summit took place amid heightened concern for the Haitian diaspora, as the Trump administration is expected to move forward with plans to end Temporary Protected Status for Haitian migrants. A court order has delayed the policy’s implementation beyond the anticipated Feb. 3 deadline.
“My heart and prayers are with our Haitian brothers and sisters facing so much uncertainty,” Solages said. “You are not alone. I am here to offer guidance, resources and support to help you understand your options and prepare for what comes next.”
