The people gathered as one

Though the evening was overcast as the people gathered at the Garapan fishing base this past Wednesday, the mood was festive and alive. There was optimism in the air as we united to create a momentum to let the government, the Legislature, and CUC know that “enough was enough.” The government must openly and honestly serve the people, and CUC must operate effectively to provide basic services on a timely and consistent basis.

There was a wide spectrum of people: men, women and children; the young and the old; the local indigenous, other Pacific islanders, mainlanders, and a wide array of foreign national contract workers. There were easily 500 to 1,000 in attendance, and no doubt many more than who were there in spirit; unable to attend due to work, family commitments, or a lack of transportation.

A wide range of speakers took the microphone and expressed their frustrations and financial losses due to the shoddy and inconsistent provision of power by CUC. Sleepless nights, damaged appliances, spoiled food, loss of income, and even days without water and sanitation were highlighted by the comments presented that night.

A petition calling for federal emergency relief, court-appointed receivership of CUC, and audits and investigations of all federal and local funds received and expended by CUC over the past 10 years was signed by over 400 people. And I am told that about one third of the signatures were of the local indigenous people.

I noticed that after the program concluded many people remained near the stage. It appeared that they wanted more, that they “meant business” and would only be satisfied by continuing the momentum built up that night. It appears that this gathering of the people was only the beginning. The time is now to join in the efforts to seek a solution to ineffective government and abysmal results of the CUC.

As I walked to my vehicle and drove home it dawned on me that all of us need to make real efforts to be a part of the solution to our dire problems. And I am thinking that we can make a significant impact if we all contact our representatives and let them know of our concerns and suggest real, practical solutions that they can go to work on. Phone them, email them and physically meet with them; and look them in the eyes and tell them what we want. They represent us and their job is to carry out our will. They were elected to serve the people.

Let there be light. Power to the people.