The Speaker's Chair - The Importance of Civic Responsibility to Democracy
Civic responsibility helps to strengthen a democratic society.
The sentiment of speaker of Montserrat’s parliament, Honourable Charliena White.
On her radio show, the Speaker’s Chair, she stated that by being informed and involved in political issues, the public can hold elected officials to account, and by so doing, strengthen democracy.
She also explained how civic responsibility and volunteerism benefit the public.
Honorable White believes that civic responsibility can be considered a catalyst for social cohesion as it fosters a sense of community, reducing social divides that may be encountered.
She adds that civic responsibility drives positive change with the advocation for social justice and support sustainable environmental practices.
President of the Nevis Island Assembly and attorney at law, Honourable Michelle Slack joined Honourable White’s discussion, and states that it is a privilege to engage in democracy as persons in other parts of the world do not have that opportunity.
Former Member of parliament in Trinidad and Tobago, Dr. Bhoendradatt Tewarie, who also took part in the discussion, explained that democracy could not exist without national responsibility.