Felicia Dujon Browne is a St. Lucian human and gender rights advocate. As a lecturer in Philosophy at the University of the West Indies, Browne reads and conducts research in the areas of Legal  and Political Philosophy, Metaphysics, Feminist Philosophy, Aesthetics and African Philosophy. Her advocacy includes human rights, women and children’s rights, child trafficking and Domestic Violence. In 2012, she founded the Caribbean Mentorship Institute which provides mentoring programs to youths across the Caribbean. Her philosophy is that “every youth has the potential to succeed.” Browne was recently nominated as Ambassador For Peace by the Universal Peace Federation(UFP) for her work and contribution in gender-justice rights. She enjoys gardening and encourages agriculture for holistic development. She is a true advocate for women and children and continue to use her life in the most altruistic ways to make a difference in the lives of others. It is a huge honor to interview her for my “Loverly People” profiles.

 

 

Lovee: Hi Felicia, thank you for taking the time to be interviewed. It is such an honor to get to explore your brilliant mind and to introduce you to my readers…

 

Felicia: Thank you kindly and it is indeed a pleasure Loverly.

 

Lovee: I feel so inspired and empowered when I see young women like you with such a wonderful sense of vision and purpose. I can feel your passion for your work, the youth and in making a positive difference in the lives of others.  What inspires you?

 

Felicia: My inspiration is drawn from the motivation of others- directly and indirectly. We live in a world in which many –including young persons have been doing many great works amidst the challenges that they may encounter.  We have been privileged to have good values from our society where education and developing yourself have been paramount to our understandings of self and civic responsibility. I grew up in Castries in the time where children were motivated to aspire regardless of his/her immediate circumstances. Neighbours, siblings, parents, teachers, bus-drivers, – the average person played a kin interest in knowing that you are doing what is right – which always encourages the social structures of disciples, kindness, compassion and having a sense of responsibility.

 

 

Lovee: Indeed. We were all ‘village children.’ Every-one seemed to have had a hand in raising us. I tell people all the time, it’s one of the great benefits of being raised on an island. I know someone who shares my sentiments about your brilliance and is extremely proud of you- it’s your beautiful sister Juliette. (Smiling) She said, “My sister should be featured on ‘Loverly People’ because she is!” And I have to agree! (Smiling) I am so happy she introduced us because you are the epitome of why I started ‘Loverly people.’

 

Felicia: My sister is a powerful woman. I have watched her journey in amazement at the triumphs that she has made. Though I am the eldest, I always looked up to her –rather than to my side. She is someone who is honest and noble – such characteristics which define a unique being. Without her knowledge, I have continuously observed her strength in character and her humble nature of caring for other –even when she could have hardly cared for herself.  I will share a unique story with you – we grew up with large family of seven siblings- we were the eldest.   We had very little, but our bond as a family is overwhelmingly transcendent. In our early teens, having a silver chain was a symbol of wealth and popularity.   Our parents could not afford it –so we saved our pennies which we obtained from Sunday masses- we gave the church the ‘bigger coins’ and the ‘smaller’ ones towards our chain. We were able to save twenty dollars within months. We decided to purchase it at the local market as it was cheaper and our friends wouldn’t notice its lack of authenticity. But we only had enough for one. Juliette decided that it would be fair that we both couldn’t have one and decided that it wasn’t worth it after all. I remember her saying, “Don’t worry momon, one day we will have so many chains, we will not know what to do.” So to this day we say ‘silver chain’ when we believe each other needs to be inspired. The money was spent on ice-cream instead. (smiling)

 

Lovee: Ahhh, that was beautiful to read. It’s experiences like these that remain etched in our memories forever. I share similar profound stories of my siblings and I also, and every time I think of them, I get emotional.  Thank you for sharing it.  I believe the work you are doing and the example you are setting for the young people is very admirable. How did you get started on the path that you are now?

 

Felicia: As the older sibling, there is always a sense of responsibility. My parents were entertainers so I was afforded the experience of going to various hotels with them and experiencing different types of persons and cultures. At an early age, I had a drive to wanting to do good things- but wasn’t clear what was needed to be done but there was a desire.  Academics were encouraged as my dad worked at the public library and reading was always encouraged.  He was also a magician who brought smiles and laughter to us and other young children.  My dad is really a good friend to us – my siblings and I were his first audience as he showed us the new tricks he was studying for as well as played practical jokes which made our hearts leap for joy.  Every day was a magical show.

 

My mother was ill during her formative years and never completed primary school. She always insisted that if there is one thing she wants us to do – it was to educate ourselves. “I cannot read and write – but I will make sure you’ll have something in you’ll minds (in creole).” That deep sense of regret, yet the willingness to inspire was overwhelming for me. She ensured that homework was done even when she couldn’t understand what the answers would be – but helped us worked through them. If anything else, I knew I couldn’t fail someone who sacrificed herself to ensure that someone receives the presumed dignity of an education. She worked three jobs, washing and cleaning in order to purchase our textbooks and school materials. Very little was spent on other entities- if she had to purchase a book as opposed to something else…school came first.

 

In essence, the foundation was laid out very clearly and strategically. I decided to continue the works my parents started and chose Philosophy as my field of study – mainly the nature and source of all knowledge.

 

Lovee:  It seems your mom’s words are the echo of most Caribbean parents. I imagine the young men and women reading this can relate to the words of your mom by their own parents, and yes, in creole too! (Laughing out loud) Ahhh, those sacrifices they made for us and those profound words of wisdom. Thank God for their dedication and sacrifice. I guess, there’s no need to ask where all this wisdom and passion derives from (smiling), it seems you were born into it. What ignited this fire within you to speak out loud and be a voice for so many?

 

Felicia: I am part of that voice. We are all part of this voice of humanity. I believe that my wisdom and passion stems from my own experiences and those of others – immediate or remote. The causes are fundamental human experiences in which we all can relate on the premises of compassion and reciprocity.  It is not a voice of hegemony or dominance – it’s somewhat of a sublet resistance to injustices which must be atoned.

 

Lovee: Who are the influences in your life and how have they helped to shape the woman that you are today?

 

Felicia:  At this stage of my development: everyone – living and deceased. I have learnt from every human experience that I have had. In the end it becomes your story – what makes one unique.  The ordinary man on the bus, the market lady, the priest, the teacher, the foe, the friend, every experience – (good and not so good) is part of the life experience. Some make you smile, cry, angry, disappointed, overwhelming- but in the end, they all have their purpose- seen and unseen.

 

Lovee: Oh my! I love that! Such depth and so true! I believe this to the core and reinforced it in my book, “A Girl Like Me.” Very well said! I shall be quoting you madam (Smiling).You are very involved in Women’s issues. Would you describe yourself as a feminist? How would you define feminism?

 

Felicia:  There are different strands of feminism- radical, Marxist, liberal (…), each having their own philosophical and historical prospective. Feminism was derived from the need for equality of a gender-based in balance. Women in many traditions were perceived as the “other” / “weak” and as a result suffered many social and political injustices, even death, mainly because of their biological determinate – i.e. that they were female.  These traditions dominated the various facets of societies (social, political, economic, and religious).

 

The notions of ‘woman’ or “female” were heavily framed into an oppressing structure in which at every front the woman was deemed as a ‘vessel’ mainly to procreate- in particularly  without political or economic power.  The history of Feminism is fascinating as it developed a sense of being and purpose other than a vessel of reproduction or caretaker of others.

 

I uphold the principles of equality- Equality in purpose and being. If this is what Feminism is – then I am a feminist.  However, I believe that feminism is not entirely women wanting men’s positions or wanting to do without them or better than them- Feminism from my analysis is to assert that both men and women need to be equal partners in the development of Nation and family; that we are complementary in nature and kind.  Thus, I am a humanist who supports feminist movements that bring about change for peace and justice for all. Therefore a man can become a feminist. (Smiling)

 

 

Lovee: I love that!  I especially love your open minded approach to what is such a controversial word/subject.  How would you describe the Caribbean woman and how would you like to see us all evolve?

 

Felicia: The Caribbean woman – more than any else have toiled through transformational existence. She has grown to appreciate and develop a unique culture that isn’t only African, Indian, Spanish or French, Dutch. She is one who sees herself, not from an island but from a collective culture of greatness and consistency. She is an educated woman – in spirit and culture.   We can begin to connect with others’ strengths and weaknesses to enable / build a unity that our male counterparts have not been able to do effectively (feminist talking now).

 

Our women need to become politically active and ensure that our concerns, our beliefs and our historical dispositions are placed in Parliament. We cannot continue to allow our male counterparts to decide on our bodies, our freedom and our future.  We must dis-mantle the myths that we are our own enemies and begin to work with our commonalities. I am yet to see the day when we no longer fight for a man –but channel our anger towards the man for deceiving us both- (Laughing out loud)…

 

Lovee: Touché! (Laughing Out loud) just had to say that…please continue…

 

Felicia: (Smiling)… We must begin to embrace, encourage and most importantly love each other. Loving a sister is so powerful; it brings her to her greatest potential and also provides that courage that is so needed to success.

 

Lovee: Powerful! Ditto…What are some of the biggest challenges do you believe that women in the Caribbean face today and how are you using your voice, your role to help raise awareness and a sense of consciousness on these issues?

 

Felicia: Our greatest challenge is political involvement.  Many women will prefer to see a male ‘in charge’ than a woman of their own kind. We campaign, nominate and support male candidates, yet hardly would support a woman to have the voice that it is needed to balance the House.  Every aspect of society is grounded in our policies. For instance, the age of sexual consent (16years). Who would determine that a woman would be legally able to have consensual sex at this age? These are the types of concerns which I wish that we as women can observe and amend. But such changes can only be done with a collective voice.

 

Lovee:  WOW! Did you say consensual sex at sixteen? I was not aware that this was lawful. Education and advocacy therefore is essential in raising awareness and addressing some of the issues that are affecting us directly as women and permeating this vicious cycle.

 

Felicia: It is important that the law protects the vulnerable in particular when their bodies are left for public approval and scrutiny.

 

Lovee: I know that you are extremely passionate about the youth. Your work speaks for itself.  Tell us a little more about the groups that you are involved in and the difference it is making in the lives of young people…

 

Felicia: The Caribbean Mentorship Institute was founded to provide mentors for young persons. I founded the organization out of a need for young persons and other organizations to connect with each other to create social change. The organization is a platform to share information and knowledge to anyone who needs guidance –such that though youths are the focus; everyone needs a mentor even in late stages of our lives. Everyone can attest to someone who made a difference in his/her life and I am hoping that this organization can assist in this.

 

Many youths are powerful in their ability and knowledge but need some form of positive guidance- to motivate and inspire. I believe it is urgently needed as many are losing hope for various reasons and we cannot afford to miss out on their contributions as citizens. If we look at many great men and women, their geniuses usually started at a very early age from Mary Seacole to Issac Newton to Mandela to Dame Pearlette Louisy, I believe in our youth because there were people who believed in me and it is a small way to say “thank you”.  Mentoring is shaping the positives of another.

 

 

Lovee: It’s amazing how our philosophies and mission are so aligned.  It’s great to be in such great company. Together we can achieve the extraordinary, as there is so much strength in unity. How do you think we as a society can help the Caribbean youth become more motivated and positive?

 

Felicia: We can begin by being the examples of motivation and positivity. Our youths are human beings and observe more than we do because they are in the developmental stages of their character and identity. They are seeking to find themselves and also create themselves. It is why it is very important for them to connect with people that care for and support them. They are very vulnerable and can be easily led astray by the motives of others. It is better to have them do wrongs and keep them oppressed – rather than train and guide them to become better than who we are? How often do we say to young people that they can aspire to become a professional, or further their education, or become compassionate in a field of his or her choice… can we advise a young person to become better than we are today? We are observing a shift in paradigms in which the youth are looking toward guidance in things and people which can destroy their nature.  They just need someone to listen to them and guide them. They need people to recognize that they are human beings with the same rights as every other citizen – even though they are young.

 

Lovee:  Brilliant!  This is the whole truth and nothing but the truth, and we know this, because we have also been that vulnerable youth who understands the power of role models and mentorship. Do you have any political aspirations?

 

Felicia:  I do as I believe it is where real change can be done. It is the highest constitution of any living ecology. My first political participation was undertaken in November 2011, in St. Lucia. I ran as a candidate for a third –party- the LPM with very little chance of winning. However, given the political climate then, an independent voice was needed.

 

My message and purpose was clear- to Educate and mobilize.  It taught me a very grave lesson, that our political system is truly a dichotomy very much like gender – male or female.  The causes have not changed and neither has mine.  Elections are dated for 2016.  We should all prepare.

 

Lovee:  Love your fire and determination. Keep the faith and keep the vision alive-always! If you were to become a Minister of Government, what do you think would be your centralize focus? What would you like to see improved and/or changed in our society?

 

Felicia: When I become a Minister of Government, (time is not of essence), my centralized focus will be Education – academic, vocational, civic. The youth and women of my mother’s generation will be enrolled in effective learning programs to assist their families in attaining the necessary knowledge for nation-building while at the same time train them in various fields for economic efficiency- Agriculture (Water-management, Food and Energy), Industry(Science, Technology, Entrepreneurship, Tourism, Aviation) and Peace. Peace as a natural industry- one in which will ensure our stability and security.  We must to be of sound mind, healthy bodies and a sustainable ecology.   Scientific and Technological advances –including ethical practices must be the touchstone of all our policies.

 

In essence, education should be a tool for empowerment –not to get a job or to work for someone. It is to build character and civic responsibility. We must begin to see education in various facets- training in all fields and sectors while at the same time providing mentorship and leadership training.

 

 

Lovee: AHA! I love your confidence and assurance when you said, “When I become a Minister of Government!” That’s the spirit my sister, you have to believe!  You mentioned some poignant issues and focus. You already have my vote. (Smiling) You write some really thought provoking and inspiring quotes. I enjoy reading them. Have you written any books?

 

Felicia: Not as yet. I have spent many years striving to complete my studies in the academic area.  Education is indeed a luxury as it can be an expensive undertaking. I spent 5 years completing undergrad as I couldn’t afford full time status and another 2 years for my Masters. I have a few published reviews but I believe that I haven’t the courage to print my provoking views as yet.  You may have sparked a thought.

 

Lovee: And I am very happy to have ignited that spark. You have such a great gift and a lot to of knowledge and wisdom to share. Please don’t deny the world of such greatness and knowledge. (Smiling). One of the things that I really admired about you after getting to know a little more is the positive energy that you continually put out to the universe. We all know that it’s not easy to keep positive in a world that can be so negative. How do you remain positive?

 

Felicia: At times, you have very little choice but to stay positive. It is the positives that lift the spirit to move on and work harder. The negatives are also needed to remind you that it will be challenging- but in the end, one cannot allow it to be the dominating factor.  In my undergrad years, I loved Computer Science and did a double major in Philosophy and Computer Science. In my first semester, I observed that a Mathematics course was being offered in the summer. I thought it would be a great idea to enroll as it was cheaper – $400.00 as opposed to $2000.00 during the semester. So I enrolled in this “Basic Mathematics” course. I struggled and in the end received an “F”. The first thing which came to mind was, “Oh no- I have to pay $2000.00” now!”  My sister, I was living, eating, drinking and sleeping Math; by the time the new semester recommenced I was providing private tutoring in the course.  So at times, it is the negatives that motivate the positives.  I received a “B” but that was a success for me.

 

Lovee: Kudos to you, because I have yet to conquer Mathematics at any level! (laughing out loud) But, you are so right, we have to challenge ourselves and allow the negatives to motivate us, not dominate us. Oh, and I must also add, I love that you love to encourage and support others, do you think this is lacking in our culture? Is that sense of community we grew up with still there, or are we more divided as a people? How can we improve that?

 

Felicia: It is there. We need to focus on the good that there is –no matter how small. Our people perhaps are divided by political afflictions but have a deep sense of peace and justice. The political divide is mainly due to the fact that they truly care about the status of their country. It is one of the reasons why they are so passionate.  Our culture is an intense and emotional one- mainly, we tell it like it is—(who vex, lose). I am proud to be a St. Lucian regardless of the different challenges that we may have. It is an identity which is unique, spiritual and connected. It is my identity. One special trait about St. Lucians is our deep sense of humor. We can laugh with a deep spirit and it is easy for a joke to be shared even at the most trying moments.

 

Lovee: As always, love your optimism and it is no denying you are truly a daughter of the soil-a true patriot. I wrote a children’s book about growing up in Saint Lucia. Perhaps you can share your experience about growing up there and the impact it had on your life…

 

Felicia: Yes, I have read your book. And it is this kind of connection and storytelling we need to bring our people together. I remember the good times, the market scenes, the patios- which made the connection with others – the vegetation – mango season being my favorite, and the not-so good times like domestic abuses, illiteracy and the poverty( not having enough to share with others). But it has strengthened us as young nationals to inspire and help others. These experiences have allowed me to not only speak on behalf of others but also of myself because I can say WE feel this way- but rather- THEY feel this way.

 

Lovee: Oh yes! You are giving me goose bumps with your responses. It’s so refreshing to know that someone else’s thoughts are so aligned with my own. On a lighter note, when you are not busy inspiring others and making the world a better place, what do you enjoy doing?

 

Felicia: I enjoy gardening.  My grandparents were farmers and the desire to grow and harvest has remained a deep part of my being. It is very therapeutic in allowing the mind to rest.

 

Lovee: That’s wonderful. In closing, what advice would you give to that young man or woman who has lost their way, lost hope in humanity and in their hopes and dreams?

 

Felicia:  Believe in yourself.   No one can determine your strength nor weakness but yourself. Don’t be afraid to ask for guidance – we all need advice and guidance on the way forward- it is not a sign of weakness but a willingness to do better. My grandmother used to say- “as long as you are alive, you can make any changes you want. It is never too late to start something new or start over again. ”

 

Lovee: Well said. You were recently nominated as an Ambassador for Peace by the Universal Peace Federation. What does this mean and what does your role entail?

 

 Felicia: An Ambassador for Peace seeks to create peaceful resolutions in various areas in society. They are designated as peace and conflict mediators seeking to complete solutions to various social, political and economic concerns. Ambassadors for Peace are chosen from various countries, religious groups and professions. My role as an Ambassador for Peace is to advocate for equality, justice and peace within the Caribbean Region.

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Lovee: Well deserved:)…Thank you for such an insightful and profound interview. You are a great inspiration and your purpose and passion is apparent. Continue to let your voice be heard and continue to allow your light shine in a way that illuminates the lives of all you meet directly and indirectly. I know that the almighty is still working on you and the best is yet to come. (Smiling) To learn more about Felicia, visit her website at www.caribbeanmentor.org.

 

 

Felicia: Thank you Loverly. (Smiling)