Marie Burge, a dedicated advocate for the people of Prince Edward Island, passed away at the age of 88 in Charlottetown. Throughout her life, she championed causes such as workers’ rights and land preservation, striving to create a fair and just community on the island.
In 1984, Burge played a key role in establishing the Cooper Institute, a non-profit organization focused on research, education, and community development. Joe Byrne, a close friend and colleague at the institute, highlighted Burge’s unique ability to inspire others to challenge themselves and approach issues from new perspectives.
Before her involvement with the Cooper Institute, Burge was deeply engaged in community initiatives. She joined the Sisters of St. Martha in 1958 and contributed to education at Kinkora High School. Additionally, Burge spent five years in the Dominican Republic with Sister Teresa Currie as part of the Latin American Mission Program, where they bravely sheltered a young man from danger.
Upon her return, Burge was transformed by her experiences and became even more driven to support marginalized groups. Known for her fearless nature, Burge delved into various social issues and became a unifying force within the community, as noted by Mary Murphy, another member of the Sisters of St. Martha.
Burge’s advocacy extended to various causes, including fair wages and environmental protection. She actively supported the idea of a basic income guarantee for Prince Edward Island, emphasizing the importance of inclusivity in social systems.
Throughout her career, Burge received several accolades, such as the Order of P.E.I. and prestigious medals from Queen Elizabeth II and King Charles III. She was instrumental in advocating for land and water rights as a founding member of the Coalition for the Protection of P.E.I. Lands and supported the National Farmers Union.
In addition to her professional achievements, Burge was remembered by her peers as someone who always maintained a sense of humor and humility. Despite her significant contributions to the community, she consistently deflected credit, emphasizing that the work belonged to everyone.
The New Democratic Party of P.E.I. also paid tribute to Burge, recognizing her unwavering dedication to creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Her positive outlook and belief in the power of individuals to enact positive change will be dearly missed on the island.