In a historic moment for the Commonwealth of Dominica, Sylvanie Burton was sworn in as the 10th President and the first woman to hold this esteemed office on October 2, 2023. During her inaugural address to the nation, President Burton expressed her commitment to be a unifying figure for all Dominicans, emphasizing her dedication to serving “all citizens of our beloved Dominica.”
President Burton’s vision is clear: she aspires to be a unifying force for all of Dominica’s People, transcending boundaries and embracing diversity. Her presidency, she firmly believes, should serve not just one group but the entire nation.
Her message resounds with empathy, courage, and honor. President Burton emphasized her commitment to advocating for the rights of vulnerable women and children. She plans to utilize her position to bring attention to the challenges these groups face daily, seeking enlightened solutions to their struggles. Importantly, her advocacy extends beyond gender, recognizing that young men also confront unique challenges.
Educational disparities were a central point in her address, particularly the gender gap observed at the Dominica State College (DSC), where a significant majority of students are female. The President stressed the urgency of targeted interventions to address this imbalance and its potential link to a growing disregard for the rule of law.
President Burton, acutely aware of the evolving world, spoke about preparing Dominica’s youth for the challenges of the future, characterized by rapid technological advancements and artificial intelligence.
She called for innovative and bold approaches to ensure Dominica remains competitive on the global stage. On the issue of climate change, President Burton conveyed the harsh reality facing Dominica, including more severe hurricanes, declining rainfall, rising temperatures, and the looming threat of rising sea levels.
Her call to action was simple but powerful: every citizen should contribute by planting trees and ending indiscriminate deforestation. Reflecting on her unexpected journey to the presidency, President Burton expressed gratitude to Prime Minister Roosevelt Skerrit and his government for their trust. She also acknowledged the dedicated service of former President Charles A. Savarin and his family in shaping Dominica’s progress.
Closing her inaugural address, President Burton requested the nation’s prayers and support as she embarked on her journey. Her presidency carries the weight of history and the promise of a brighter future for all Dominicans. As she unifies voices and nurtures hope, President Burton’s leadership will undoubtedly leave an indelible mark on Dominica.
This article is copyright © 2023 DOM767
