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Sept. 8, 2005 – The Senators of the Democratic Minority Caucus of the 26th Legislature today sent their condolences to the Dominican government on the passing of former Prime Minster of Dominica Dame Eugenia Mary Charles. Known as "The Iron Lady," Charles was the Caribbean's first female head of government and ruled Dominica from 1980 to 1995. Her role in the U.S. intervention in Grenada in 1983 elevated her to the status of an internationally known figure. She was 86.
Virgin Islands Senator Louis P. Hill, who is a native of Dominica, recalled the influence Charles had on his political career. Hill was a member of the youth faction of the Dominica Freedom Party, which Charles co-founded and which helped Dominica win independence from Great Britain in 1978. "I remember her with great admiration and respect for her uncommon ability to lead the nation through some of the most daunting challenges without sacrificing the people's welfare or compromising our pride and dignity," Hill said.
Dame Eugenia Charles has created a legacy, which has firmly ensconced her in the annals of history. She will forever be remembered along with other women leaders such as Indira Gandhi, Golda Meir and Margaret Thatcher, who have lead at the highest levels in their countries.
Democratic Minority Caucus Senators Craig Barshinger, Roosevelt St. C. David, Pedro M. Encarnacion, Juan Figueroa-Serville, Louis P. Hill, Neville James and Ronald E. Russell extend their personal condolences to all who loved Dames Eugenia Charles. We pray that her soul rests in peace.