The President of the United States, Barack Obama, and the U.S. First Lady, Michelle Obama, have recognized former Grenada Ambassador to the United Nations Dr. Lamuel Stanislaus as “a part of our great American story.”
In a White House letter to Dr. Lamuel Stanislaus, made available to Caribbean Life on Sunday, the Obamas asked Stanislaus to accept their “belated best wishes for your 95th birthday.”
The ailing Stanislaus celebrated his 95th birthday on April 22 in Brooklyn, with close friends and relatives.
“You have been a part of our great American story, lending your voice to the vibrancy of our nation, and offering your experience and wisdom to those around you,” wrote the U.S. president and the first lady.
“As you mark this occasion, we hope you get the chance to celebrate with friends and loved ones, and to reflect on all the memories you have made,” they added. “You have our warm wishes for a great year ahead.”
Stanislaus told Caribbean Life Sunday night that he felt “humbled that the president has recognized your contribution and took the time to let you know.”
The White House’s recognition came after the U.S. Congress last month hailed the ex-envoy as a “true hero in our society.”
In commemoration of Stanislaus’ birthday, and recorded in the United States Congressional Record, U.S. Congresswoman Yvette D. Clarke, told the U.S. House of Representatives that Stanislaus’ “exemplary work, done as the UN Ambassador of Grenada, furthermore cements his legacy, contributing to the well-being of not only his country but [to] the host of eleven [actually 14] other small commonwealth countries; in particular the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) in which I deeply express my gratitude.
“Mr. Speaker, it is with great honor that I ask [that] we recognize Dr. Lamuel A. Stanislaus not only for his achievements he’s done for the global community but, most importantly, [for] being a family man, a father to his children, a loving husband and a true hero in our society,” said Clarke, who represents the 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn.
Born in Petite Martinique, Grenada’s smaller sister island — the other is Carriacou — Stanislaus, a retired dentist by profession, has been the recipient of numerous professional, civic and political awards, which include the Insignia of Commander of the British Empire from her Majesty the Queen of England, (CBE); The Lifetime Achievement Award from the District Attorney of Brooklyn; and an Honorary Degree of Doctor of Humane Letters from St. George’s University.
Clarke noted that, on Feb. 7, 2016, Dr. Stanislaus was recognized under Grenada’s National Hero’s legislation and was named Knight Commander, “which provides for him to be referred to as Sir Lamuel– KCNG.”
New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo also said he was “delighted to send greetings and heartfelt congratulations” to Stanislaus, as he commemorated “the auspicious occasion of your 95th birthday.”
In his letter, Cuomo wrote that Stanislaus’ “special milestone provides an opportunity for neighbors, friends and family to pay tribute to an extraordinary individual who has led a full life and who continues to make the most of each day.
“You have witnessed remarkable changes during your lifetime and, through many decades, you have shaped our nation,” Cuomo said. “I applaud your contribution to your family, your community, and to New York State.
“Your longevity inspires all who have been fortunate to know and love you, and I am honored to extend my best wishes for a memorable 95th birthday celebration,” he added.
Dr. Stanislaus said he was “not ok” health-wise, disclosing that he is “suffering with the ravages of cancer of the prostrate and cancer of the bones.
“You see, I have to keep trying,” he said in an exclusive Caribbean Life interview. “But, with my faith in God and [with] the help of my family, I’m lingering on with a lot of hope. I’m not giving up.”
When asked if he should reveal the nature of his illness to the public, Stanislaus retorted: “It’s God’s sickness. I’m not ashamed to say this.”
Stanislaus again complimented Derek Ventour, a premiere Grenadian-born entertainment promoter in Brooklyn, for being instrumental in soliciting the White House, U.S. Congressional and New York State’s recognitions.
He said Ventour has been keeping him abreast of developments in the community, saying that they mean “a lot to me.”
