Sept. 7, 2006 – As Democrats and other party members go to the polls on Sept. 9, I want to remind them not to forget about the smaller races that will be determined that day. Most Virgin Islands residents are discussing politics and promoting their choice of governor, lieutenant governor and senators. But as you go and exercise your right to vote, don't forget to cast your vote for the members of the Democratic District and Territorial Committees.
The Democratic District Committee usually comes into the forefront during election time. The committee hosts meet and greets, forums, beach parties and other activities designed to introduce Democratic candidates to the public allowing voters to make more informed choices at the polls.
The Democratic District Committee is made up of hard-working committed persons who, together with the membership effectuate these events. I, Melody Rames-Wiggins, am running for a seat on the St. Croix Territorial District Committee and am asking for your vote on Sept. 9.
I have been attending district meetings on a regular basis since returning home in 2002. I have been involved in the Committee's activities such as toys for children at Christmas, feeding the homeless and other outreach activities. During this campaign season I have assisted with all the successful events hosted by the party as well as supporting new and incumbent Democratic senators in their campaigns.
According to the by-laws, the district committees should be engaged in outreach, education and fundraising. I have spoken out at many meetings about the need to do additional community outreach. Some of the activities I have suggested are setting up computers in the Democratic Headquarters and offering professional resumes to youth who bring in their information. I have talked about doing housing and credit recovery seminars at the headquarters and other educational outreach activities, even a free tax service in April.
This is the reason I am seeking a seat on the committee – to assist in getting these activities moving. I want to have a greater voice in the decision-making because I see the need for the Democratic Party to re-connect with the people by offering grassroots solutions and assistance to the community at the grass roots level.
The Democratic District Committee is a civic as well as political organization. Why can't we get together and paint the Boys and Girls Clubs? Why can't we raise money and donate supplies to a school? Why can't we give assistance to a person whose home was destroyed by fire or help a single mother with several small children have a Happy Thanksgiving? Why can't the Democratic District Committee devise innovative ways to help the community? Doing these activities will help change the perception "disenfranchised democrats" have of the party and bring them back to being "true Democrats."
The District Committee is on a roll now. They have hosted one successful event after the other. Meet and Greet, televised forums, Labor Day beach party and a rally, but we must continue to be active and visible all year round. That is my goal as a member of the committee if I am elected.
Please give me a vote on Sept. 9; my number is #5. I am a dues paying member of the committee. I have been actively involved in St. Croix through my participation in several boards and community service organizations for more than 30 years. I am presently employed as the public relations officer for the Democratic Majority in the 26th Legislature.
I truly love my community and I will continue to serve whether elected or not, but I truly believe this is the time for me to actively seek this office. Allow me to put my experience and commitment to work for you.
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