A new light shining

There’s a new light shining, and hopefully a new day beginning. OK, let’s not go overboard quite yet but, according to my statistics, there were a record number of the CNMI citizenry speaking up and shining their lights as they expressed their thoughts on an array of island concerns this past week or so.

There are now even teenagers weighing in with serious concerns and from-the-heart feelings and ideas. A very bright MHS student even was brave enough to address her aunties and uncles at the Legislature. Yes, you were blunt by the standards of some, but I would not say disrespectful. In fact, you expressed yourself ever-so-well, especially in the latter half of your letter. And you have captured in a “nutshell” the real issue concerning the Legislature: “This is not your time or your place.”

Yes, Kalani, we did elect the lawmakers to be our voice and to represent our ideals and values. And we did elect them to improve the way things are around here. And no, we did not elect them to disappoint us! And, yes again, there are many different people with many different ideas (I think we call that diversity). And diversity is a powerful concept if the people of the CNMI decide to take advantage of all the potential benefits it affords.

So, legislators, please take note of this island niece and, “start cooperating like adults.”

You are our elected representatives, so please get down to the real business of representing us. Many believe that not only is there a new light beginning to shine on Saipan, but a new day beginning to unfold as well. And many believe that the old paradigm of winning elections has seen its day…and that day is over. So if you want to regain your time and place, now and possibly in the future, take heed!

It would appear that it’s time to “get with the program.” Open up the government and its workings and debates and include the ideals, values and especially the will of the people. A good place to begin to roll up your sleeves is with the Open Government Act. It will provide the transparency and openness necessary to bring ethics, morality and honesty back into governance.

What have you got to lose, legislators? And what has the island and its people got to gain? Please think it over. There is a new light, and with it is coming a new day. Hurray! Power to the people.