Dear Source,
The Source has been a fantastic medium for speaking the mind of the people.
After reading the editorial posted by the writer of "Turnbull, Hack or Hero"
and the article from the teacher who stated they must pay for xerox supplies
using their own credit cards, due to the government's lack of fiscal
responsibility, I wonder what options are left for the people of the Virgin
Islands. It's frightening.
If the government doesn't invest in the people and future generations, you have nothing. To think that a government would intentionally cripple it's young through inadequate education is perhaps one of the greatest offenses of all. Yet, as witnessed through your readers, this same government is notorious for it's wasteful ways.
As a person who had the opportunity to visit St. Thomas and St. Croix this past year I've gained a fascination for the islands. However, the lack of responsible government is a grave concern, not only to those who currently live there, but also to any of us contemplating a move. It is apparent the government is not working "for" the people and is not "of" the people. Making "common" workers pay for a license to support their families is ludicrous. I can understand the need to generate additional funds, but not on the backs of the working poor. The people of the USVI should have their own government, but at what point does the US do the responsible thing and stop bailing out the VI, but engrafts them in as the 51st state (or sales the islands to another country, after all, it is a "commonwealth) and assist in solving the money issues? Perhaps a fresh face and perspective is needed. Hopefully, soon, someone will arise out of the ranks with integrity, who truly has his finger on the pulse of the islanders and makes a difference, no matter how unpopular it is. This individual will have the wisdom to incorporate the concerns of the constituents he serves into effective government, whereby all issues can be addressed.
Perhaps in the year 2000, the residents of the USVI will truly say, "Out with the old….In with the new!"
Marie Smith
South Bend, Indiana
