On Friday the 12th, on the occasion of celebrating the 172nd anniversary of the proclamation of the independence of the Dominican Republic, local Dominicans raised their flag like every year, and this time they did something different and admirable.
On previous occasions we have heard about the values of those who had fought to achieve that independence they now enjoy, values that were deeply instilled in men and women who carry on their shoulders the responsibility to maintain that independence.
Over the years, many have migrated to this country where they have established families and involved in various activities, never forgetting where they came from.
On this anniversary, Casa Dominicana in coordination with the Consulate General of the Dominican Republic and the City of Lawrence selected four of its best compatriots, awarding them with the Juan Pablo Duarte Award.
Annia Lembert, her body weakened by cancer but not her spirit, appeared in a wheelchair to receive her much deserved award. In 1989, Lembert and a faith group formed by the Rev. Victor Jarvis, Father Jim Dukowski and Eric Kintner created MVP (Merrimack Valley Project) which she has presided several times, have managed to save more than 1,600 manufacturing jobs and protected more than 600 units of affordable housing in the valley.
Vidal Primiterio graduated from the Universidad Autónoma de Santo Domingo, First in America, with a medical degree, emigrated to the United States in 1990 and immediately joined the Massachusetts College of Pharmacy in Boston where he earned a Master Degree as Assistant Physician. As such, he has served at Holy Family Hospital in Methuen, Greater Lawrence Family Health Center and Lawrence General Hospital in Lawrence, Winchester Hospital in Winchester and Merrimack Valley Hospital in Haverhill, MA, among others.
Raymond Nunez’s objective when looking for a job was to find a challenging position in the education field, where he could make a difference in the lives of young people and their families. Today, Raymond has found the perfect job as Co-director of Dreams Basketball, the basketball team of Lawrence High School.
Born in the Dominican Republic, however, she has lived in the United States since age 12. What you need to know about Delia Duran- Clark is that she is passionate and committed to serving the urban population represented in her beloved city of Lawrence. As an educator and community member, Lawrence is where her heart is.
That little girl who arrived here without any knowledge of English language, in 2003, followed her passion for an education and Notre Dame Cristo Rey High School opened its doors to her, hiring her to serve as the Admissions Counselor/College Counselor. Presently she serves as NDCR School Principal.
We join in this celebration with the Dominican brothers and sisters and gladly provide our pages to highlight the achievements these families reach daily. Immigrants of this caliber guarantee the prosperity we all desire for our beloved Lawrence.
