Maison d’Haïti calls for action after two women killed in Saint-Michel

Maison d’Haïti is calling for greater action against violence toward women following the deaths of two women in Montreal’s Saint-Michel neighbourhood within 48 hours.

The community organization is inviting residents and the public to take part in a march and vigil Saturday in memory of the victims and in solidarity with other women affected by violence.

In a news release Thursday, Maison d’Haïti expressed its “deep sadness, indignation and profound dismay” following the deaths of 44-year-old Leakkhena Seng on Aug. 15 and 41-year-old Kerline Jean two days later.

According to information made public and cited by the organization, both deaths were linked to domestic violence. Montreal police confirmed that Jean’s death occurred in a domestic violence context and that children were in the home at the time.

“Two women killed within days in the same neighborhood cannot be considered mere isolated incidents. Behind these femicides, there are shattered lives, traumatized families, and children who will bear the consequences of this violence for a long time. We must collectively refuse to trivialize violence against women,” said Arcelle Appolon, Director General of Maison d’Haïti.

The organization offered its condolences to the victims’ families and loved ones, with particular concern for children and family members who witnessed the violence.

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Domestic violence a societal issue

Maison d’Haïti said the deaths highlight the broader social impact of domestic violence, which it described as an issue of public safety, health and justice affecting society as a whole.

The organization also pointed to barriers some immigrant and racialized women can face when seeking help, including isolation, economic insecurity, a lack of awareness of available resources, linguistic or cultural barriers, and fear of losing family or social networks.

“It is imperative that support, shelter, psychosocial assistance and protection services be accessible to all women, without distinction based on status, origin or social condition,” the organization said.

With elections approaching, Maison d’Haïti is also calling on political parties to include concrete policies and measures to combat femicide in their platforms.

“We cannot wait for another tragedy to occur before we act. Every sign of violence must be taken seriously. Every woman who asks for help must be able to find an open door. Every child exposed to violence must be able to receive support. And every victim must know that she is not alone,” said Appolon.

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March and vigil planned for Saturday

The organization is inviting Saint-Michel residents and the general public to take part in a march and vigil Saturday in memory of Seng, Jean and other recent victims of violence.

The march will begin at 9 a.m. at the Papineau Square entrance of Frédéric-Back Park and will follow the park trail. Participants will return to Papineau Square at 10 a.m. for a gathering featuring speeches, readings and testimonies.

The organization is also urging community members to break the silence surrounding domestic violence and reaffirming its commitment to preventing violence against women and supporting immigrant women and their families.

“Leakkhena, Kerline, and all women who are victims of violence, you will always live on through our actions.”