Sixteen years after Haiti’s catastrophic 7.3-magnitude earthquake, the nation continues to honor the memory of the tragedy while reaffirming its commitment to disability inclusion. On the anniversary of the January 12, 2010 disaster that claimed approximately 300,000 lives and left hundreds of thousands injured, Secretary of State for the Integration of Persons with Disabilities Génard Joseph delivered a poignant address recognizing the enduring impact on Haitian society.
The seismic event, lasting merely 35 seconds but resulting in over 280,000 fatalities and 1.6 million displaced persons, fundamentally transformed Haiti’s social landscape. Secretary Joseph emphasized how the tragedy exposed the profound vulnerabilities faced by individuals with disabilities while simultaneously revealing their remarkable resilience and determination.
In his commemorative speech, Joseph declared the government’s unwavering dedication to improving living conditions for disabled citizens through collaborative efforts with disability organizations, civil society groups, and international partners. The administration’s focus includes enhancing access to essential services, promoting socioeconomic and educational integration, and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
The Secretary framed disability inclusion as both a moral imperative and political responsibility for the Haitian state, noting that the earthquake’s legacy necessitates continuous action toward building a more equitable society. His address called for national solidarity in creating a Haiti where human dignity remains paramount and no citizen faces exclusion.
Joseph’s remarks highlighted how the collective memory of the disaster serves as both a tribute to those lost and an inspiration for constructing a more inclusive future. The anniversary observance underscores Haiti’s ongoing journey from tragedy toward transformation, with disability rights at the forefront of national recovery efforts.