In response to the recent protests by students and educators in the island district of St. Croix, Senator Marise C. James, chair of the Committee on Education and Workforce Development, reaffirms her unwavering commitment to the island’s youth and their right to protest for better learning environments.
“The conditions our students face in their classrooms today are unique to their generation, vastly different from what many of us experienced a decade or more ago,” Sen. James said. “I stand with these students and their right to voice their concerns, and I recognize that their experiences deserve attention and action.”
The First Amendment of the United States Constitution guarantees freedom of speech and freedom of the press to all, including students. James emphasized that “Students do not check their constitutional rights at the schoolhouse doors. Protests provide an opportunity for students to voice their concerns and advocate for change. Their voices can influence policy decisions.”
Safety remains a paramount concern for the senator. She said, “While I support their right to express themselves, I am deeply concerned about their safety. Therefore, I am offering the legislative conference room on St. Croix as a platform for these students to articulate their issues from their unique perspective, unfiltered by adults or teachers—expressing the lived experience as students in our public school system.”
Furthermore, Sen. James extended an invitation to the student leaders of the recent protest, provided they have their parents’ consent, to testify at the legislature at a mutually agreed upon date and time. Interested parties can contact Senator James’ office at 712-2326 or 712-2269, or send an email to senatormcjames@legvi.org to arrange their participation.
Senator Marise C. James is resolute in her dedication to championing the rights and concerns of the next generation. She encourages open dialogue and engagement with the community to effect positive change in the island district of St. Croix.
