BAI and IJDH brought Haiti’s fight for restitution to the second session of the Permanent Forum on People of African Descent, taking place from May 30 to June 2, 2023 at the United Nations (UN) Headquarters in New York City.
BAI and IJDH ensured that Haitian voices were included in the session. One of the convening’s themes, “Global Reparatory Justice,” provided a springboard for BAI Managing Attorney Mario Joseph to explain how Haiti can make a unique contribution to the global fight for reparations, but only if those who care about reparations first help Haiti regain the democracy that presenting its restitution claim requires. Mario was a featured speaker at a roundtable side-event for leaders of reparations struggles from around the world, spoke with Caribbean leaders and activists at an official event, interviewed on NY’s Radio Soleil, and strategized with activists from throughout the African diaspora. Time ran out before the full convening had a chance to hear Mario’s remarks, but you can watch short Kreyòl and English versions below and read his remarks in English here and French here. Mario concluded powerfully that “Haitians still fight for reparations for all Africans. Right now we need your help. We need you to tell your own governments to stop propping up leaders in Haiti who serve the powerful countries rather than your Haitian cousins.”
Watch in English:
Watch in Haitian Creole: