PAHO honors health workers of the Americas for their commitment and resilience during the COVID-19 pandemic – PAHO/WHO

Washington, DC, September 29, 2025 (PAHO) -The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) presented a sculpture that pays tribute to the health workers of the Americas for their resilience and dedication during the COVID-19 pandemic. The ceremony took place at Paho headquarters in Washington, DC, as part of the special events of the 62nd Directorate Board.

Pandemia left a deep mark in the Americas, with more than three million deaths in the region, which represents approximately 43% of the global toll.

«This sculpture is a deep expression of gratitude, memory and solidarity. It is a time to stop, reflect and honor those who held us during one of the most devastating health challenges of our time,» said Dr. Jarbas Barbosa, director of Paho.

During the emergency, the overwhelmed hospitals and the shortage of essential supplies led to health systems at the edge of collapse. However, the response of the health personnel was exemplary. In addition to their work in hospitals and intensive care units, health professionals maintained the continuity of essential services: administer vaccines, deliver medicines and guarantee care for priority groups such as children, pregnant women and older adults.

Dr. Barbosa emphasized that recognition is dedicated to all health workers in the region (Nurses, doctors, technicians and volunteers) that «demonstrate every day that their knowledge, skills, heart and spirit are dedicated to protecting people, especially when they need to recover their health and well -being.»

The tribute also recalled the leadership of Dr. Carissa Etienne, former director of Paho, who guided the organization’s response to the pandemic with timely decisions focused on protecting health workers.

The sculpture stands out as a permanent reminder of courage and humanity demonstrated during the pandemic and as a call to strengthen health systems in preparation to face future challenges.

The design of the piece reflects the institutional values ​​of Pah (capital, excellence, solidarity, respect and integrity) and symbolizes the interdependence of all health workers in the first lines of combating the disease.

The piece was originally conceived in 2006 for World Health Day by artist Gilles Collette, who used to work for Paho. After the Covid-19 pandemic, it was considered timely to transform this symbol into a three-dimensional bronze sculpture, reviving their message as a tribute to health workers in the Americas.

This tribute aims to inspire future generations to value dedication, service and solidarity as pillars to build healthier and more equitable societies.