PHILIPSBURG:--- As the country of Sint Maarten continues to navigate the Covid-19 pandemic and continues to rebuild after Hurricanes Irma and Maria, the island has entered one of its most polarizing eras within the political spectrum. More than ever, people are engaging with the day-to-day workings of the government and parliament. While the uptick of this engagement has some positive insights, we must be wary of the negative impacts this has on our day-to-day civic engagement.
The Sint Maarten Youth Parliament, a youth organization dedicated to educating the youth of this country about parliamentary procedures, leadership, and civic engagement, encourages all members of society, both young and old, to participate in political dialogue. However, with the current standards of political conversations, we are concerned that people are focused more on theatrics and politics and not asking the right questions to those who are in charge. In order to properly critique those who were elected to serve the country, we ask for you to utilize the following steps:
1. Figure out your point of concern. Many times people start addressing an issue and tend to go off track on a multitude of concerns. While all concerns are valid, sticking to one point at a time helps the dialogue and holds the person accountable for that specific question.
2. Listen, then react. We tend to be passive listeners and listen to rebut and not listen to learn. When having these dialogues, it is important to listen to learn or understand, so when it is time for a follow-up or give a rebuttal, it is actually well thought out.
3. Be respectful. It's ironic that in a society that drills obedience into children, we aren't respectful in public spaces when discussing, and interacting with politics. While we understand emotions can get a hold of someone, it is always important to treat others with respect.
As the island continues to be more politically involved, we hope that you are engaging properly and making your own opinions on what is right for the country. We at the Sint Maarten Youth Parliament are also giving you the opportunity to engage with your elected officials. On Friday 25th March 2021, at 7:00 pm, we will be hosting our first ever Mid-Parliamentary Debate in collaboration with IslandGalTing. If you have any pressing questions to ask Members of Parliament, you can email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Make sure to add the date on your calendar and follow us on social media at St. Maarten Youth Parliament on Facebook and sxm_youthparliament on instagram, and IslandGalting (@islandglating on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter) to learn more about the event!
