After being named Bostonian of the Year by the prestigious newspaper Boston Globe, community leader Dieufort Fleurissaint, better known as Pasteur Keke, has been honored once again.
This time, it was the Immigrant Family Services Institute (IFSI), of which he is one of the co-founders, that decided to pay tribute to this tireless defender of immigrant rights.
A ceremony was held on Thursday to pay tribute to the exceptional contribution of Pasteur Dieufort Fleurissaint, described as one of the most fervent advocates for immigrant rights.
“If we’re here today, it’s only because of this man,” IFSI Executive Director Dr. Geralde Gabeau told an audience of the organization’s employees and other personnalities. “He worked alongside me. We had to face extremely difficult situations, and Pastor Keke was always there to lend his support. He was always one phone call away,” she added.
The ceremony was attended by several influential figures from the community, including Boston City Council President, Ruthzee Louijeune, who was full of praise for the reverend pastor. “Pastor Keke is an inspiration to us all. His devotion to the rights of immigrants and his commitment to equality are exemplary,” she said.
Surprised by his IFSI colleagues, Pastor Dieufort Fleurissaint expressed his gratitude to the immigrant organization and all those who supported the initiative. “It’s an honor for me to receive this recognition, but above all it’s a reminder of the importance of continuing the work we do together for the rights and well-being of immigrants,” he said with emotion.
Pastor Keke, an iconic figure in Boston’s Haitian community, has dedicated more than four decades to defending the rights of immigrants.
As the founder of several community initiatives and an active member of numerous local organizations, he has played an essential role in improving the living conditions of immigrant families. His leadership and vision have been catalysts for change, particularly in the areas of immigration, access to education, legal services and food security.
His work took on particular significance during the COVID-19 crisis, when he coordinated efforts to distribute food, provide masks and ensure access to information for the most vulnerable members of the community. His organization also worked with other local institutions to distribute and sensitize community members to the need for vaccination.
Pastor Keke is also credited with his tireless advocacy for the repeated redesignation of temporary protected status for Haitians. He has participated alongside other leaders in numerous events in Washington in favor of respecting the rights of immigrants, both Haitian and from other nations. Local immigration officials often refer newcomers to Pastor Keke for cases concerning their immigration status.
Despite the recognition he has received, Pasteur Keke remains focused on the future. “There’s still a lot to do. My dream is to see a society where every immigrant can live with dignity and access the opportunities they deserve,” he says.
With his unwavering commitment and inspiring career path, Pasteur Dieufort Fleurissaint continues to leave his mark on the community through his hard work and love of social justice.
Community leader Pasteur Keke doubly honored this year
