5th VI Constitution Draft (5-13-09 Plenary)
Crucians In Focus invites the public to review and comment on the attached draft of the 5th VI Constitution from the May 13, 2009 Plenary Session. We have also included the red-line version for those wishing to see the changes that were made. This document will be considered at the next session currently scheduled for Tuesday, May 26th, 10:00am at The Drive In (Estate Grove Place, St. Croix).
Revised Draft Constitution From 5-13-09 Plenary Session
Revised Draft Constitution From 5-13-09 Plenary (red-line copy)
How does a rational and sane mind dialogue with irrational and insane minds? The problem may be organic, and the solution may be medication.
Though I do not agree with most positions of the “Educator”, you guys must admit that in addition to being intelligent she has one more positive attribute: she is BLESSED with much PHYSICAL BEAUTY!
I would like to debate the issues of the Proposed Constitution and present arguments supported by evidence. I would definitely rebut each and all opposing contradictions and fallacies, but I really do not see a need for debate, for the lines are already drawn. No one is changing anyone else’s mind.
Our generation has to be accountable for something positive and historical during our lifetime.
No debate: In the final analysis, as a native, I will vote for the Constitution.
Paraphrasing from a leader out of F’sted: If not this, then what? If not now, then when? If not us, then WHOM?
The person who keeps his eyes & hands all over me is my husband. However, I do even answer to him. My immediate supervisor is a school principal. The principal must adhere to the Collective Bargaining Agreement. My boss is the Governor of the USVI;he also has to follow the law.My criminal record is immaculate.I abide by the policies of the Department of Education and walk a very straight line. People who are out-spoken or oppose the political views of others are often targets. Hence, I am constantly watching my back and staying alert for flying chairs.Being incarcerated is not my idea of fun.The only drug that I am under the influence of is “LOVE.”
“GladtobeYoung:
I am delighted that you’re attending an Ivy League institution. Are you studying political science or taking a reading course? It is obvious that you lack proficiency in the English language.”
Thanks Verdel! Since I am clearly not writing a dissertation, I refuse to (consistently at least)revise comments posted on a blog. It’s just not that serious. Once you can get the point, my goal is achieved. Fortunately, the newspapers I have published articles in don’t seem to think the same of my writing
Kenrick, I appreciate your honesty. While I would probably never vote for an 18 year old for elective office, I would always, though, fight to the death for them to have the RIGHT to do so. It is a sad day for democracy when we say either that: 1. The electorate lack the ability to make sound decisions on who they elect or 2. Legal adults who can die on the battlefield defending our way of life cannot run for office.
Verdel:
“Did the drafters of this document stereotyped all persons under the age of 30 as being incapable of serving as a U.S. Senator?”
Not at all. I know that you are intellectually competent enough to detect and understand the difference between representing an entire U.S. state and representing a few thousand people in the V.I. legislature.
The Constitution prescribes that one be at least 25 years old to run for a U.S. House Seat. The language of the document also indicates that there was an assumption that one Representative per every 30,000 people would be the norm. Today, the average House Rep. represents about 400,000 people. The constitution is a living, breathing document, and its 25 year old provision is still in place. If a 25 year old is able to represent 400,000 (or more) people in today’s day and age, is an 18 year old not able to represent the 10,000 person average Senate constituency? (roughly 150,000 V.I. residents divided by the amount of Senators- rough figure = 10,000)
As I said before, I have no problem admitting that I would probably not vote for an 18 year old for elective office due mostly to questions regarding experience. The reasons given by previous posters, however, (sex, drugs, violence) reveal the most vile of stereotypes of the youth of the Virgin Islands, I cannot accept that rationale in good faith.
By the way- I fully believe that a 21 year old with a prestigious degree and experience living with the people and knowing their concerns can represent their island in the Senate far better than some current and former Senators ever can/could have- “I need big suits;” “I can’t pronounce the name Diageo, nor comprehend the contract;” etc. etc.
An 11-year old can wield & operate an assault weapon. The youths of today, all over the globe get plenty of practices. There are many games that simulate the operation of weapons, at the same time making the youths insensitive to the lost of human lives.The modern day babysitter (TV) also does an excellent job of keeping the youths occupied with viewing violent acts. Does this mean all youths have a propensity for violence? Of course not;it is possible for “a 21 year old with a prestigious degree and experience living ..can represent their island….”Statistically speaking, a chronologically older, experienced youth is more likely to be elected than his/her younger counterpart.It is a number game.
I concede that it is not always true that an older person can make sounder decision than a younger person. Should there, however, be any restrictions when it comes to application of the law? Should a convicted 8-year old murderer be incarcerated or be given a death sentence? Should an 18-year old be charged with statutory rate for having sex with his 13-year old girlfriend/boyfriend? When do we draw the line?
You must admit that age is often a consideration when it comes to making & inforcing the laws. We must, though, accept that there is always the exception to the rule.