Michaelle Jean Marks International Women's Day in Haiti
The Governor General of Canada, Michaelle Jean spent International Women's Day in Haiti where she paid tribute to women leaders who lost their lives in the devastating earthquake of January 12. Among the women leaders she honored were Myriam Merlet, Magalie Marcelin, and Anne Marie Corialan, founders of advocacy organizations who worked tirelessly to improve the lives of women and young girls in Haiti. During her trip, which included a visit to her hometown of Jacmel, Ms. Jean met with President Renee Preval, Prime Minister Jean Max Bellerive, and Minister of Women Affairs Marjorie Michel.
"I chose to arrive on March 8, International Women's Day because we must remember that hope lies with women, that without their involvement, perspectives, and solutions, it would all be for naught; nothing would be viable."