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In observance of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Amnesty International has spotlighted the remarkable contributions of 10 Haitian women who are driving change in human rights, gender equity, and community empowerment. Their leadership has become a crucial force in addressing Haiti’s overlapping crises and advocating for sustainable, locally-led solutions.
Fighting violence and inequality at the grassroots
The 10 women, each working in diverse yet interconnected fields, are pivotal in addressing Haiti’s challenges, including systemic corruption, gender discrimination, and the impact of escalating violence. Their efforts extend beyond immediate aid, advocating for institutional reforms to protect women, girls, and marginalized communities.
Among them is Novia Augustin, founder of Ref-Haiti, which provides safe spaces and essential services for marginalized women, including rape survivors and LGBTQIA+ individuals. She stresses the importance of civil society’s role in human rights advocacy and highlights the need for accountability mechanisms within Haiti’s Multinational Security Support Mission (MSSM).
Katia Bonté, leading Groupe d’Appui aux Rapatries et Refugies (GARR), focuses on the rights of deportees and migrants, calling for clear protocols and accountability for potential human rights violations under the MSSM.
Women as leaders, not victims
The honorees reject narratives that cast Haitian women solely as victims. Pascale Solages, co-founder of Nègès Mawon, emphasizes that Haitian women are “actors, leaders, and survivors,” advocating for gender equity and providing comprehensive support for survivors of violence through her organization’s Sisterhood program.
Similarly, Regine, general coordinator of MIEFH, challenges ableist practices by empowering women with disabilities, highlighting how Haiti’s socio-political crises and gang violence exacerbate inequalities.
Addressing impunity and building future leaders
Haiti’s entrenched culture of impunity poses significant obstacles to justice, as noted by Nadine Louis, director of Fondation TOYA. Her organization trains girls to become leaders while pushing for ethical professionals to support survivors of sexual violence.
Daphné Valmond, a leader in anti-corruption activism with Nou Pap Domi, combines economic empowerment with advocacy by creating job opportunities for women survivors of violence. She insists that empowering individuals is key to igniting change, asserting, “Haitians should thrive in their country, not just survive.”
A call for Haitian-led solutions
Amnesty International underscores the critical role of Haitian feminists and human rights defenders in crafting lasting solutions to the nation’s crises. Activists like Carine Jocelyn, founder of the Haitian Women’s Collective (HWC), advocate for local leadership, transparent accountability in the MSSM, and stronger protections for women and girls.
“The international community must center Haitian voices,” says Nathalie Vilgrain, co-founder of Marijàn. “A Haitian solution must be found for a Haitian crisis because imposed solutions have never worked.”
A legacy of activism and resilience
As Haiti grapples with systemic challenges, these 10 women exemplify resilience and leadership. Their work—spanning advocacy, community support, and institutional reform—lays a foundation for a more equitable and just future. Amnesty International’s recognition highlights the importance of amplifying their voices and ensuring their inclusion in decision-making processes.
