Tynetta Mckoy
Founder and Executive Director, Saint Kitts and Nevis Alliance for Equality
Tynetta Mckoy (she/her), a courageous activist from the beautiful twin islands of St. Kitts and Nevis, is making a remarkable impact in her community. Known as a passionate advocate for the LGBTQI+ community, Mckoy proudly embraces her cultural identity.
Mckoy is the Founder and Executive Director of the Saint Kitts and Nevis Alliance for Equality (SKNAFE) and has served her community for the past eight years. She has tirelessly raised awareness on crucial issues such as health, rights, and education, focusing on empowering the LGBTIQ community, women and girls, and persons living with HIV. Under Mckoy's leadership, the organization has prioritized addressing vulnerable communities' pressing challenges. From advocating for equality to championing the rights of marginalized groups, she has fearlessly led her organization to tackle these critical issues.
In 2022, Saint Kitts and Nevis's High Court deemed sections 56 and 57 of the colonial era "Offences Against The Person Act" unconstitutional, thereby decriminalizing consensual same-sex conduct. The Saint Kitts and Nevis Alliance for Equality and Jamal Jeffers were victorious in court, challenging the country's anti-sodomy laws. These laws were used to provide legal cover for police to harass and target LGBTQIA+ people and to justify the exclusion of LGBTQIA+ people from social protections. While LGBTQIA+ community members continue to face harassment and discrimination, decriminalization marks a significant step forward in the fight to end stigma and discrimination.
Mckoy's unwavering commitment to creating a more inclusive society has made her a beacon of hope for those in need. With her continued efforts, she is determined to bring about positive change and uplift the voices of the marginalized.
In addition to her activism, Mckoy is a prominent sports figure in her federation, leading as the Captain of the St. Kitts National Women's Cricket Team. Her dedication to health, fitness, and sportsmanship shines through in her daily life.