Also available in: Español
Source: cvccoalition.org
Executive Director of TransWave Jamaica Neish McLean is the 2019 recipient of the Robert Carr Award for Human Rights.
The award is named in honour of one of CVC’s founders, Dr. Robert Carr, who was a stalwart in the global human rights and HIV Responses and is presented by Jamaica’s Ministry of Health and Wellness to an individual or entity that has contributed significantly to improving the human rights situation of persons living with or affected by HIV. It’s also a recognition of important contributions in fostering improved access to healthcare for Key Populations. The award was presented to Mr. McLean on Wednesday (November 13, 2019) at the Ministry of Health and Wellness’ 29th Annual Review and Planning Retreat in St. Ann.
In reacting to the award, Mr. McLean expressed gratitude for the recognition. “It’s an honour to be recognized by the Ministry of Health and Wellness, through the HIV/STI/TB unit. I’m quite grateful to accept the award and do so on behalf of the team at TransWave Jamaica”, he said.
Being recognized during this significant period for the trans community made the award even more special for McLean. “This award comes during Trans Awareness Week, which is celebrated from November 13-19 each year; so it has an added level of significance for me, my team and my community. As an organization, TransWave Jamaica has made strides towards promoting trans health and well-being and this award serves as another milestone of our advocacy, visibility and community engagement. The award affirms the work I’ve been doing over the past four years and encourages me to continue to provide the leadership and support while seeking out opportunities for partnership”, he pointed out.
“Robert Carr is known for his legacy of advocating for vulnerable and marginalized groups. He is indeed a giant in the HIV response. I’m humbled to receive an award in his name and hope to leave a positive mark on the trans community. There is much work to be done to ensure that trans people in Jamaica are affirmed and meaningfully included. I hope this award will serve as an inspiration to others to continue to be TRANStastic by being unapologetic and bold. I’m very proud of the team at TransWave. I lead a fiercely committed and passionate group of trans persons. The future of trans advocacy is bright. I’m humbled to see how far we’ve come and I’m excited to see where TransWave will be in the coming years”, McLean added.
Meanwhile CVC Executive Director Ivan Cruickshank in congratulating McLean said Transwave has made a huge impact on the local and regional HIV response to the benefit of persons of trans experience; “CVC wholeheartedly congratulates Neish and the team at TransWave Jamaica on all the hard work they’ve been doing to create a more inclusive environment for persons of trans experience. We’re happy to have been able to support their work in the past and we look forward to a continued and strengthened partnership.”