The Youth are Watching

As we watch with dismay the growing political turmoil in national and local government, the public seems to have forgotten the presence of a mostly silent, but definitely large group watching our actions – our youth. One has to wonder about what behaviors are being modeled for them.  

 Are we telling them, based on the actions of those in charge, that it is okay to defy the rule of law when it suits their personal interests or the interests of those in charge?  It certainly seems so nationally, based on actions in the Trump administration, and locally as well, based on recent decisions of some in the Executive Branch of our government.  If our actions say that some people can defy the law with impunity, can we really hold our youth accountable if their behavior should reflect that too?

Are we telling them, by our actions of those in charge, that the Press should not be allowed to speak out against wrongs perceived in government but must, instead, turn a blind eye or be punished? What does this mean for the Territory if we cannot allow for a free Press?

Are we telling them by local government actions that it’s okay for a person to accept a government job or government benefit that is unlawfully given? Would we be able to hold the youth accountable for accepting a gift unlawfully given or bought ( e.g., accepting or buying stolen items)?

Are we telling them by our actions that it’s okay to take much more for ourselves in salaries when there are many more people with so much less? While it’s not illegal, what does it say about the quality of the society we create or live in here in the VI?

What is the future of our community or nation if we raise a generation that sees it possible for some to break the laws with impunity or can take more and more when there are so many others in need, or if we have a Press that fears to speak out if doing so aggrieves those in charge? The young people are watching. Frankly, we fear a future based on the behaviors we see being modeled for them. Where do you stand?

League of Women Voters of the US Virgin Islands

Gwen-Marie Moolenaar, President