Having a say!

One of the fundamental tenets of our democracy is having a say. The right to have a say is something that should not be taken lightly.

If we consider that it was around 60 years ago that a group of resolute women fought for their right not to be overlooked in the electoral process in the Cayman Islands, we would recognise that activism has long been a feature of these beloved islands.

Now we see various groups being formed and coming together to ensure as wide an engagement as possible among the people of Cayman on major issues impacting our society. We applaud their efforts to press forward to let their voices be heard, whether on the issue of wanting a referendum on the port project or to preserving public access.

That is the essence of democracy. Regardless of which side of the fence you sit on any of these issues, Caymanians should be proud of the right they have to stand up and be counted. Having a say on major issues is not simply confined to the four-year election cycle but by sharing your views – hopefully in a respectful manner – when the need arises.

Caymanians should be proud of such rights and not sit back willy nilly and let others be their voices. Don’t rabble rouse just for the sake of doing so, but educate themselves on the issues of the day, so they can make an informed choice. That is how democracy is meant to work. So, let us keep our democracy alive in a respectful and informed manner.

This is the year to have your voices heard. Let us hear what you have to say.