Celebrating the Life and Impact of Dr. Carissa F. Etienne: A Tribute by DFP

Dominica Freedom Party 2nd December, 2023

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The Dominica Freedom Party (DFP) deeply mourns the passing of a remarkable individual, Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, who departed this world on December 1st, 2023. Dr. Etienne’s departure is not just a loss for the Dominican community, but a profound void felt globally, as her legacy reaches far beyond national borders.

Dr. Etienne’s illustrious career spanned pivotal roles as the Director of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) and as the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Director for the Americas. In these positions, she demonstrated exceptional leadership, focusing on health system renewal and tirelessly working towards reducing health inequalities. Before these international roles, Dr. Etienne played a pioneering role in the 1980s and 1990s in developing and leading Dominica’s primary healthcare system, widely hailed as one of the best globally.

Beyond her professional accomplishments, Dr. Etienne was known for her down-to-earth and warm personality. Proudly embodying Dominican mannerisms and friendliness, she became a source of national pride. Dr. Etienne not only exemplified global excellence emerging from a small island but also symbolized the indomitable spirit and intellectual prowess of the Dominican community. Her legacy, along with several internationally renowned Dominicans, shows that as a people we are capable and driven to greatness. Her life and achievements stood as a beacon of hope and inspiration, illustrating what Dominicans can achieve with the right enabling environment and opportunities.

As we extend our deepest condolences to Dr. Etienne’s family and friends, let us also acknowledge her legacy more concretely. In this moment of reflection, we should honor her memory by actively showing that Dominicans are capable of transformational societal impact – both in our homeland and on the global stage. Beyond mere tributes, let us take up the mantle she carried and strive for excellence collectively, ensuring that our achievements go beyond individual brilliance to encompass collective brilliance and accomplishments for the entire Dominican community.

Dr. Etienne’s passing leaves a profound void in Dominica’s global presence, but it also serves as a poignant reminder of the need to continue our pursuit of excellence and progress. In honoring Dr. Carissa F. Etienne, let us acknowledge not just a loss but an opportunity to carry forward the torch of her vision, resilience, and commitment to making a meaningful impact in the world. May her memory inspire us to strive for a brighter, more collectively accomplished future for the Dominican community she so proudly represented.