Remembering Dana – 6 years after her murder

SIX years after her death, family and friends of the late Dana Seetahal, SC, paid tribute to her memory by giving care packages for all essential workers at the Port of Spain magistrates court.

Seetahal’s sister, Susan Francois, and her niece, Danielle, said they had tried to think of ways to remember her this year during the covid19 pandemic, “without too much gloom.”

In the past, candlelight vigils have been held in remembrance of Seetahal.

In a video message, Francois said they chose a “random act of kindness,” by providing cheer, through snacks and chocolates, to workers at the court “as auntie would have done.”

Hygiene care packages, which were provided by a friend, also formed part of the gift, since Seetahal “had a thing about toothpaste, because she read an article which said that prisoners and refugees feel dehumanised when they can’t clean their teeth"

In addition to toothbrushes and toothpaste, sanitisers and masks were also included.

“We would like to thank everyone who helped make this happen. We would also like to thank everyone for loving and remembering Dana."

The elder Francois said they chose to commemorate a major part of Seetahal’s character of generosity.

She said her sister had a fearsome legal mind and did not keep it to herself and her paying clients, but shared it with the world at large, at no cost.

“And one way of showing our appreciation is through our random acts of kindness,” she said.

Francois also said students at UWI also received care packages, since Seetahal, during her time as a student experienced hardship, “and would have contributed if she was here.”

Danielle Francois said on behalf of her family and those who contributed to the effort, “We urge others who are reasonably comfortable to see what they can do to help others during this time. Every little bit helps, even a smile,”

Seetahal was shot dead in the early hours of May 4, 2014, after leaving the Mau Pau casino in Woodbrook.

Ten men are before the court charged with her murder.