Born, Port-au-Prince, Haiti, 1946, at 25 years, Keder Hyppolite immigrated to Canada, 1972, as did many Haitians that year, to escape the oppressive Duvalier regime which had ruled over Haiti since 1957. Settling, Montreal, where a majority of Haitian Canadians had taken up residence, over the past 28 years, Keder has devoted much of his time and energy as an activist for human rights, focusing on the integration of minorities and the resettlement of immigrants. After receiving a B.A., University of Quebec, Montreal, and acquiring a second degree in Social Administration and a Certificate in Human Rights, University of Prince Edward Island, Keder Hyppolite has passionately served his community. A Judge of the Human Rights Tribunal of Quebec and Member, Youth Centre of Montreal, Keder has run as an NDP federal candidate and twice has run for Montreal’s City Council. President and Founding Member of both the National Council of Citizens of Haitian Origin and Alliance of Cultural Communities for Equality and Access to Health and Social Services, Keder is also a Member of the Board Quebec Movement to combat racism and is a Second Vice President, Harambee Centres Canada. For his efforts to serve and promote the Black presence in Canada, Keder was awarded the Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada. He also received, February 2, 2000, The Round Table of Black History Month Award in recognition of significant contribution to compatriots, community, and to the city of Montreal. In this view, Keder shares a proud moment with Jean Doré, former Mayor of Montreal. [Photo, courtesy Keder Hyppolite] |