Jo-Ann Garnier

I am born and raised in Haiti and became involved in humanitarian activities at an early age, volunteering at a rehabilitation center for women and children. I am trained in nonviolent conflict resolution through mediation with the philosophy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. at the Martin Luther King Jr. Center in Atlanta. I was influenced after meeting Coretta Scott King and Martin Luther King Jr. III. I have volunteered in Mayan communities in Mexico as a community facilitator, and I am the founding member of ‘Femmes En Démocratie, Vital Voices,’ which promotes women’s participation in all spheres of society.

I studied law in Haiti and apply my knowledge, skills, and passion to tackle issues of poverty, abuse, and exclusion. I also accompany the most marginalized people, particularly women, children, and persons with disabilities, to defend their own rights. I work with multiple stakeholders on inclusive social development strategies and programs aimed at respecting the rights recognized in various human rights instruments. I was honored as a ‘Human Rights Hero’ by the Embassy of the United States in Haiti and have been recognized by the Ministry of Women for my advocacy to promote the rights of women and girls. I love my dogs—all 14 of them! I talk to them, and they talk back.