The Bureau des Avocats Internationaux (BAI) and Institute for Justice and Democracy (IJDH) invite you to join our Virtual Annual Gathering on December 2 to commemorate an eventful 2026 for the rights of Haitians in Haiti and the US.

We will celebrate the historic victories that BAI and IJDH helped make happen in 2026, and reflect on the tragic losses that caused great harm to our friends in Haiti and the US. Most of all, we will discuss how we can build on this year’s progress to maximize the opportunities that 2027 will bring for concrete progress in short-term and long-term struggles for Haitians’ rights. 

We hope that you’ll join us at this special event to hear from leaders of the fight for justice and liberation for all Haitians in Haiti and the United States. Panelists include:

1. Boston City Councilor At-Large Ruthzee Louijeune, a fierce advocate for Haitian immigrants’ rights in Massachusetts and nationally, will talk about the fight to defend Haitian Temporary Protected Status in the United States. 

2. IJDH Executive Director Brian Conncannon will speak about the challenges and victories of IJDH’s work advancing Haitian human rights in Haiti and the US in 2026, and the fight and opportunity that lie ahead in 2027.

3. BAI Leadership Council Member Marie Kattia Lefruy will provide an on-the-ground report of the BAI’s work in Haiti, including defending sexual violence survivors, advancing the rights of women and girls, and supporting civil society. 

4. IJDH Board of Directors Member Dr. Joia Mukherjee will bring her decades of experience as a human rights advocate in Haiti and internationally to moderate the panel.