FOKAL honored by “Sant La”

May 4^th, 2024 – Sant La Philanthropic Gala

FOKAL is honored to receive this award from Sant La.

I wish Lorraine and I, and our wonderful team, could be there with you and speak to the public in person about the exceptional relationship that, for the past decades, is being nurtured between Sant La and FOKAL.

Commitment, engagement, are not just words neither for FOKAL nor for Sant La. When we speak of being engaged in our communities, committed to processes of enfranchisement, of learning, of sharing, of solidarity, of empathy, we are talking about a common vision of who we are as a people, and the values of respect and dignity that are grounded in our line of action.

And we also share the joy of being together whenever we have a chance to meet whether in Haiti or in Miami. I have fond memories of our meetings in Cap Haitian with cohorts of fellows listening with attention to our conversations about Haiti’s history and culture, and about FOKAL’s programs dedicated to upholding and promoting what Haiti really is: its creativity, its capacity to resist in adverse conditions, its continued struggle to survive and be free.

How not to evoke Leonie’s contagious laugh that always brings humor in the discussion, and Gepsy’s beautiful smile reaffirming our complicity, their constant presence, the importance of their work in keeping Sant La a safe and learning place, a collective endeavor to serve the community.

On behalf of FOKAL’s Board and Staff, I want to communicate our heartfelt thanks to Sant La and reiterate that we are profoundly honored by this award. Thank you, dear Arielle Dominique, for accepting the award on our behalf. Wout la long men nap mache ansanm pou nou wè solèy leve.

Wishing Sant La a long and prosperous life!

 

Michèle Duvivier Pierre-Louis
President of FOKAL