The Jamaican diaspora and the Maryland community are mourning the loss of Ambassador Curtis A. Ward, a figure celebrated for his work in diplomacy and with the Caribbean American community in Montgomery County, who passed away this past Sunday, Montgomery County Government announced.
Councilmember Laurie-Anne Sayles shared her deep sadness upon the ambassador's death, noting his vast influence that reached from his birthplace of Treasure Beach, St. Elizabeth, to the halls of the United Nations Security Council from 2000 to 2001; his career was marked by his expertise in areas like counterterrorism and sanctions enforcement, and later evolved into a role as Chair of the Maryland Caribbean Community Council where he made sure Caribbean American residents and organizations were included in state policy dialogues, this legacy of inclusion and advocacy was what earned Ambassador Ward a Governor’s Citation as emphasized in statements obtained by Montgomery County Government.
Ward's commitment extended to serving as a founding member of the Caribbean American Advisory Group to the Montgomery County Executive, ensuring the voices of the Caribbean community were represented, as recounted by Venice Mundle-Harvey, Immediate past Chair of the Montgomery County Caribbean American Advisory Group, “Ambassador Curtis Ward was a proud son of Jamaica and a champion for the Caribbean region. He dedicated his life to service—uplifting, advocating, and shaping opportunities for others. As a founding member of the Caribbean American Advisory Group to the Montgomery County Executive, he worked passionately to ensure that the Caribbean community in Montgomery County was seen, heard, and represented. His legacy of service and leadership will not be forgotten,” as noted by the same press release.
Emulating the principles exemplified by Ambassador Ward, Sayles, herself the daughter of Jamaican immigrants, recognized his impact as a model public servant, his efforts to uplift Caribbean American voices across the United States are a testament to his dedication; according to a statement she made to Montgomery County Government, “Ambassador Ward’s legacy reminds us of our shared responsibility to build bridges, strengthen community, and lead with purpose.”
The upcoming Montgomery County Council Caribbean Heritage Month celebration will be yet another opportunity where Councilmember Sayles plans to honor and celebrate the late ambassador, reaffirming a commitment to the mission Ward so passionately championed throughout his life.
