Haitian-American Foundation for Democracy

#ThrowbackThursday: HAFFD x Haitian Ladies Network Engaging with Haiti panel at Haitian Ladies Weekend! Taking a moment to reflect on the panel “Engaging with Haiti – What’s the State of Affairs,” which took place during Haitian Ladies Weekend. This discussion focused on the key issues facing women in Haiti. It was moderated by Monique CLESCA and our panel featured: - Danièle Magloire, who shared insights on the sociopolitical landscape and the necessary policy reforms to support women’s rights. - Velina Elysee Charlier who spoke about the fight against corruption and its impact on governance and development. - Pascale Oriol discussing the role of community-driven solutions in urban planning for a sustainable future. We engaged in meaningful conversations about challenges and opportunities for women in Haiti. Thank you to everyone who participated in this vital dialogue! If you attended this panel, tell us what this conversation left you with in the comments.

Statement of the Haitian-American Foundation for Democracy Tuesday, September 10, 2024 Once again, the Trump/Vance team shamelessly exploits Haitians as scapegoats during their bid for the presidency. Vice Presidential candidate JD Vance and several congressional leaders have spread dangerous falsehoods, demonizing Haitian immigrants as homeless and hungry invaders that represent a threat to Ohioans — even suggesting they pose a danger to pets. This reckless fear-mongering puts vulnerable communities at risk, stokes division, and incites hate crimes. Local law enforcement, faith communities, and social services must be supported in protecting these new community members from harm. The simple truth is that towns like Springfield, Ohio, whose economy were in decline, have been revitalized by the influx of Haitian and other legal immigrants. As these communities adjust to demographic changes, this transitional period should be viewed as an opportunity for growth and collaboration, not for sowing confusion and fear. We urge all Haitian-Americans and our allies to counter these vile attacks by actively engaging in the democratic process, promoting inclusivity. By doing so, we can help ensure that all members of society are treated with fairness, dignity, and respect. For more information, please contact Ariel Dominique, HAFFD Executive Director, at +1-754-277-5727. www.haffd.org

Productive discussions recently with Haiti’s Prime Minister Gary Conille and HAFFD Board Members on the pivotal role of the diaspora in driving progress and transformation in Haiti.

Great meeting last month at the State Department with HAFFD board members and staff Michelle Austin Pamies Ariel Dominique Jean-Philippe Austin Tamara Beliard Rodriguez Jocelyn McCalla, Alix Cantave from the W.K. Kellogg Foundation, and US Ambassador to Haiti Dennis B. Hankins. Constructive discussions on Haiti and diaspora support initiatives.

?? HAFFD’s Chairman, Dr. Jean-Philippe Austin, was awarded the prestigious Ellis Island Medal of Honor for his outstanding civic engagement work! Since 1986, this esteemed award has celebrated inspiring Americans striving for the betterment of our nation and its citizens. Dr. Austin now joins the ranks of distinguished Americans, including six US presidents, in receiving this honor. His dedication to our community exemplifies the spirit of service and leadership that the Medal represents. Congratulations on this well-deserved recognition! #HAFFD #EllisIslandMedalOfHonor #CivicEngagement #Leadership #Inspiration #MakingADifference #haitianamerican

Jocelyn McCalla, HAFFD Senior Policy Advisor, and Bill O’Neill, UN Special Rapporteur on Haiti, led a briefing on Haiti at the Vatican’s Dicastery for Integral Human Development. Speaking to thousands of people who had gathered on St. Mark’s square in Venice a few days later, Pope Francis said “the population [of Haiti] is in despair because of the collapse of the health care system, food shortages and violence that is forcing people to flee.” He also said he hoped this new Presidential Council would help Haiti restore “the peace and stability it so badly needs”.

Today at Haitian-American Chamber of Commerce of Florida’s Haitian American Emerging Business and Healthcare Innovation Summit, HAFFD’s Executive Director Ariel Dominique spoke on “Creating a Legacy: What Do we Want Haiti to Look Like,” highlighting the successes within our community and the need to build coalitions for positive change. #HAFFD #HaitiLegacy #CoalitionBuilding ????

Thank you to the panelists, moderators, and speakers who contributed their knowledge and perspectives to the “Haiti: From Crisis to Catalyst” symposium this week. Your commitment to understanding the complexities of the country’s crisis and exploring solutions is invaluable. #HaitiCrisisToCatalyst Roots of Development American University