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 Executive Branch actions that it’s okay to take much more in salaries for those in charge 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?
—Gwen-Marie Moolenaar, a St. Thomian, earned a PhD in Physiology (concentration in
Neurophysiology) at Indiana University in 1972, did postdoctoral studies at Cornell University Medical School, and was a tenured faculty at the Howard University School of Medicine for 19 years before returning to the VI in 1990 where she became the VP for Advancement and later the Provost at UVI before taking an early retirement in 2005. She is the recipient of many honors, including an Honorary Doctorate of Letters from her undergraduate college, St. Elizabeth University for her many accomplishments and was their commencement speaker in 2013. Dr. Moolenaar is currently President of the League of Women Voters of the VI.
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
