On the Passing of Anne Robinson 1929 – 2026

Friend and Long-time Member of Project Harvest – Guatemala

Ann Robinson was a friend, a champion of social justice and an inspirational woman.

Her relationship and importance to Project Harvest is like what water is to a living plant. Soil may hold all the ingredients necessary for a plant to grow but it needs the medium of water that will bring moisture and nutrients to it for the plant to live and thrive.

Anne for many years was the medium that helped Project Harvest to grow and sustain itself and to become what it is today. Today, it is a model for supporting the women with whom it works to have a greater voice in decisions that impact their lives as well as putting nutritious food on the table for their families.

Anne devoted her time and energy to these ideals and she helped Project Harvest achieve them.

Anne brought to Project Harvest her intellect, her wisdom, her well informed opinions, and her clear-headed thinking. When Project Harvest was making decisions on critical issues, Anne brought clarity to an issue based on an historical perspective of her many years of commitment and work on justice issues.

What was especially invaluable was her lived experience of being on the ground in a number of countries in the global South.

In addition to her clear thinking she brought her heart by way of her spirit and her tenacity.

She was a woman of action. Well into her 70s she didn’t hesitate to travel alone to Guatemala, to go into and visit isolated mountains communities and meet first hand with the families with whom Project Harvest works. She would listen to their stories and walk with them on their narrow mountain passes.

Once, the story goes, a path she was climbing up was too steep and Anne took a tumble and went head over heels down the side of a mountain. On landing she sprang to her feet and gave a strong impression, with a thumbs-up, that all was okay. It wasn’t of course, but she would never let on.

Anne’s attitude, optimism, and determination greatly contributed to the idea that a small project, such is Project Harvest, can make a difference in the lives of hundreds of families and thousands of people in the distant land of Guatemala.

Her philosophy was predicated on the idea that a small group of people can make a significant difference in the lives of people by working together on a common goal. She epitomised this in so many ways – both in the field and at the planning table. She hosted the organization’s monthly board meetings around her dining room table. At that time, they were day long meetings which would be gratefully interrupted midday with a flurry of clearing all of our papers off the table and enjoying a great potluck meal. Anne’s leadership and sense of purpose inspired many to continue to appreciate the value of our work.

Anne brought to Project Harvest her deep sense of solidarity with people who struggle to survive with very few resources. She had, as has been mentioned many times, a clear love for justice for those who because of systemic inequalities do not live the dignified lives they deserve. Anne responded in a loving and caring way to bring about a world where people do live with dignity.  

On a personal level, Anne was a special friend to me and my family. She and Eric brought joy to all of our gatherings. She was a mentor, a true elder and a wise woman who will be forever remembered and cherished.

Viva …… Anne Robinson Viva….., Long live……… Anne Robinson…. Long Live ………

By Paul Lemieux