Haitian-American Pastor Dieufort Fleurissaint has been named Bostonian of the Year for 2024 by the prestigious Boston Globe newspaper.
In a year marked by remarkable achievements and inspiring efforts, Pastor Dieufort Fleurissaint, known to many as Pastor Keke, has been named Bostonian of the Year by the Boston Globe.
Recognized for his tireless dedication to the Haitian immigrant community, Pastor Keke has spent more than four decades working to improve the lives of newcomers to Massachusetts, helping them overcome the challenges of settling in a new country.
Born in Haiti, Pastor Keke arrived in the United States 43 years ago with dreams of a better life, but faced immense hardships, including homelessness and grueling 12+ hour workdays.
Over time, he gained legal status and established himself as a vital resource for Haitian immigrants. Through his church, Total Health Christian Ministries in Mattapan, and his non-profit organization, True Alliance Center, he has become a steadfast advocate for the disadvantaged, the Boston newspaper recognized.
Whether it’s lobbying for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitians or fighting so that immigrants without legal status can get their driver’s licenses, Pastor Keke’s advocacy work has been instrumental, the prestigious American newspaper explains.
His efforts have become even more important this year with the arrival of over 11,000 migrants in Massachusetts, many of them Haitian.
Despite limited resources, Pastor Keke has worked tirelessly to mobilize translators, collect donations and expand access to essential services such as healthcare, education and housing.
“He has been the leading advocate,” Dr. Geralde Gabeau, founder of the Immigrant Family Services Institute, told the Boston Globe. “He brings people together and makes sure they have hope.”
Pastor Keke’s impact resonates far beyond his immediate community, embodying the resilience and strength of Boston’s immigrant population.
While Pastor Keke stands out for his humanitarian work, the Globe also honored several other individuals and groups for their contributions to the city and beyond:
The Change Makers: Nick Korn, Liz Miranda, Royal Smith, Brian Worrell and Chris Worrell.
This team made history by spearheading legislation to expand liquor licenses in Boston, focusing on underserved neighborhoods such as Mattapan and Hyde Park.
Their efforts have opened up economic opportunities for communities of color, often excluded from Boston’s restaurant boom.
The coalition’s work has already begun to reshape the city’s economic landscape and ensure equitable access to licenses for entrepreneurs who need them most, eemarking Boston Globe.
Zeyneb Magavi, executive director of HEET, has redefined energy solutions by creating a revolutionary geothermal heating and cooling system in Framingham. Her innovative community approach to renewable energy is a model for states and countries seeking sustainable alternatives to natural gas.
Boston-born actress Ayo Edebiri, star of The Bear, won hearts and awards this year, including a Golden Globe and SAG honors.
A Dorchester native proud of her Barbadian and Nigerian roots, Ayo Edebiri remains committed to her immigrant heritage and working-class upbringing, even as her Hollywood career takes off.
Massachusetts natives Frederick Richard and Stephen Nedoroscik were also recognized by the Boston Globe. They brought glory to the U.S. men’s gymnastics team with a bronze medal at the Paris Olympics, ending a 16-year drought.
Their sporting achievements and determination have inspired millions, proving that greatness can be achieved through teamwork and perseverance.
A year of impact
From championing social equity to Olympic glory, these Bostonians left an indelible mark on the city.
Pastor Keke’s selflessness and commitment to serving others is a shining example of what it means to lead with compassion, making him a well-deserved recipient of the title “Bostonian of the Year.”
“Better days are ahead,” Pastor Keke often tells those he helps. This year, his optimism and actions have made Boston a brighter place for all.
This article is based on the Boston Globe’s Bostonians of the Year series. For complete coverage, visit bostonglobe.com.
You must be logged in to post a comment.