Joan R. Platt (In Memoriam 1945-2020)

Human Rights Watch is saddened to report the death of board member Joan R. Platt, who passed away in London on November 23, 2020, after a long illness. She was a dedicated and passionate advocate for the rights of women and children. She devoted herself to multiple organizations focused on human rights and documentary film and was ardently committed to the Joan and Lewis Platt YMCA of East Palo Alto. Joan, a staunch supporter of the Women’s Rights Division, helped to lead and build their advisory committee and joined Human Rights Watch’s international board of directors in 2009.

“Joan was generous, fearless, and thoughtful. She was a straight shooter – you always knew where you stood with her,” said Amy Rao, co-chair of Human Rights Watch’s board. “She was a passionate supporter of women’s rights, and she also delighted in taking researchers out to share her love of good food and wine, and good company. We will miss her very much and send our deepest condolences to her family.”