The National Assembly of Belize was honoured to welcome Honourable Doris Tomasa June Garcia (nee Cayetano) during a special visit yesterday. Affectionately known as “Miss June,” Honourable Garcia made history as Belize’s first female President of the Senate, serving with distinction from December 21, 1984 to July 31, 1989.
Born on March 7, 1942, in Dangriga Town, Stann Creek District, Honourable Garcia attended Sacred Heart Primary School and Austin High School, later completing agricultural training in Tegucigalpa, Honduras. She became a respected farmer and a member of the Citrus Growers Association, while also establishing herself as a successful entrepreneur as the owner of June’s Beauty Cove, making her Dangriga’s first licensed cosmetologist.
Her strong commitment to public service was demonstrated through her role as Deputy Mayor of the Dangriga Town Council (1983–1985). In 1984, although she did not secure the UDP nomination as standard-bearer for Dangriga, she was appointed by then Prime Minister Manuel Esquivel to serve as President of the Senate—an appointment that marked a historic milestone for women in Belizean leadership.
During her visit to the National Assembly, Honourable Garcia unveiled an updated portrait of herself in the National Assembly foyer, where portraits of former Presidents of the Senate are displayed. She was warmly welcomed by Madam President of the Senate, Honourable Carolyn Trench Sandiford, along with the Clerk to the National Assembly. She also received an official guided tour of the renovated National Assembly building.
The visit concluded in one of the committee rooms, where Honourable Trench Sandiford hosted Honourable Garcia for a short meeting.
The National Assembly remains proud to recognize the invaluable contributions of Honourable Doris June Garcia, whose life of service continues to inspire future generations of Belizean leaders.
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