Congratulating Dr. Donna Christensen

Floor Speech

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Ms. PLASKETT. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise to congratulate my predecessor, the Honorable Dr. Donna Christensen, on the unanimous approval of the Virgin Islands legislature to rename the Charles Harwood Memorial Complex in her honor.

Dr. Christensen has spent her life as a public servant and a leader in each of her roles, whether it is medical, educational, or political. For decades, she has built a legacy as a pioneer. She was the first female physician to serve as a Member of Congress, the first female to represent an offshore territory in Congress, and the first female to represent the Virgin Islands in this body.

Acutely aware of the unique challenges faced by Virgin Islanders, Dr. Christensen has remained a staunch advocate for health equity for minorities in the territory and underserved communities, such as her influential work for minority health in the Affordable Care Act. In my work, I continue to build on her legacy through the tireless battle to attain equitable treatment for the people of the Virgin Islands.

I thank Dr. Christensen.

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