NewsNBC 6 South FloridaMay 27, 2026Miami-Dade County
Miami Gardens Councilwoman Reflects on Her Haitian Heritage and Path to Public Service
Miami Gardens Councilwoman Linda Julien, the first Haitian American elected to the city's council, shares how her family's immigrant experience and early life challenges shaped her commitment to community advocacy.
Read the full story at NBC 6 South FloridaWhy It Matters
The article highlights the personal background and motivations of a sitting Miami Gardens council member, providing context for her approach to local policy and constituent advocacy.
Key Facts
- Linda Julien is the first Haitian American elected to the Miami Gardens City Council.
- Julien's mother immigrated to the United States from Haiti on a raft in the late 1970s.
- Julien lost her father when she was 12 years old.
- As a child, Julien acted as a translator and advocate for her mother, helping to find resources for rent and utilities.
- May is designated as Haitian Heritage Month.