In her inaugural address at Government House, newly appointed Senator D’Asante Small has committed to leveraging her legislative position to champion enhanced safeguards for The Bahamas’ most vulnerable citizens. The recently sworn-in lawmaker articulated a comprehensive five-pillar agenda focusing on critical social issues during her acceptance ceremony upon receiving the Instrument of Appointment.
Senator Small identified public safety reform as her primary objective, emphasizing the necessity for a strengthened national framework addressing missing persons cases. She specifically highlighted the urgent need for improved protocols concerning missing children and adults with cognitive conditions such as Alzheimer’s and dementia, noting that each case represents a beloved family member or friend.
Mental health transformation constitutes another cornerstone of her legislative vision. The senator characterized psychological well-being as a pervasive national concern affecting all sectors of society. Her proposed initiatives include establishing a dedicated mental health emergency hotline, enhancing community-based support services, and eliminating societal stigma surrounding mental health treatment. She asserted that mental wellness warrants equivalent attention to physical health and that no individual should endure silent suffering.
Gender equality and women’s empowerment feature prominently in Senator Small’s platform. She pledged to create expanded opportunities for female leadership through specialized training programs, mentorship initiatives, and ensuring meaningful participation in decision-making processes. The senator affirmed that advancing women’s representation directly correlates with community and familial progression.
Confronting gender-based violence remains a critical priority, with Senator Small vowing to intensify national efforts through improved protective measures, enhanced reporting mechanisms, survivor-centric services, and sustained public awareness campaigns. She unequivocally stated that every Bahamian deserves security within their household and nationwide.
Prime Minister Philip Davis endorsed the appointment as part of a broader strategy to incorporate younger generations and more women into prominent governmental roles. He recounted Senator Small’s distinguished trajectory from youth organizations through academic excellence at St John’s College and the University of Tampa, to her professional contributions with the Public Hospitals Authority and international representation at UN forums on gender equality. The Prime Minister emphasized that her substantial pre-Senate experience has prepared her for significant legislative responsibilities.