Sister’s Tribute to Femicide Victim Dr. Cerina Fairfax

The profound grief and devastating impact of femicide are rarely more evident than when a loved one breaks their silence. In a heartbreaking tribute, Arisce Wanzer, the sister of Dr. Cerina Wanzer Fairfax, has spoken out for the first time since her sister was tragically killed by her husband, former Virginia Lt. Gov. Justin Fairfax.

A Sister’s Heartbreaking Tribute

Arisce penned a deeply emotional message on Instagram, revealing the horrific circumstances of her sister’s death. “My oldest sister Cerina Wanzer Fairfax was murdered by her husband on April 16th,” she wrote. “Outdated gun and divorce laws in Virginia have destroyed my family and life will never be the same.”

She described her sister as a vital pillar in their family structure, a “loadbearing column” whose loss has caused an irreparable collapse. Arisce shared cherished memories, recalling how Cerina supported her dreams, even taking her to her first modeling competition and teaching her to ignore negativity.

Remembering Dr. Cerina Fairfax

Dr. Cerina Wanzer Fairfax was more than just a politician’s wife; she was an accomplished dentist, a loving mother, and a respected community leader. Friends and colleagues remember her as a vibrant, curious, and fearless individual who set a high bar for success and inspired those around her to achieve their own goals.

Her sister emphasized that Cerina was a real person with her own accomplishments, whose example gave them the freedom to forge their own paths while always knowing they had a strong support system at home. The loss has left an unfillable void, with Arisce expressing, “I still need you. I still love you. Forever.”

A Call for Action

Tragically, Dr. Wanzer Fairfax was one of many Black women who fall victim to femicide. Statistics highlight that a vast majority of Black women murdered are killed by someone they know, and they are killed at a significantly higher rate than white women. This stark reality fuels Arisce Wanzer’s urgent call to action.

She stressed that thoughts and prayers, while comforting, are not enough. “Voting and advocating for women’s rights, especially in divorce cases, and stricter gun laws are the only things that will prevent this kind of devastating tragedy from happening to anyone else,” Arisce stated, urging for systemic change to prevent future heartbreak.