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Preparations Underway for the 6th Caribbean Multihull Challenge. Arrangements are on fire for this historic event

SINT MAARTEN (SIMPSON BAY) - Entries are coming in for both the Race and the Cruising Rally. Plans are setting up for the introduction of the new Time Trials for Cruising Multihulls™. Our many prestigious sponsors are making their activation plans. The music line-up and parties for all nights at CMC headquarters - the Sint Maarten Yacht Club in Simpson Bay – and at rally overnight stops in Dutch-side Great Bay, French-side Anse Marcel, and in St. Barth are almost completed. 

Committee boats for Racing and the Rally Time Trials are identified with excellent officiating crew aboard. An early glance at registrations on Yacht Scoring point to some great match-ups in CSA 1. That class that will see five races with three of them distance romps; i.e. the 60 mile around St Bath’s Sprint™ sponsored by FKG Rigging; the Around Saba Dash™ sponsored by the Sint Maarten Tourism Bureau, and the around island Circle Race™ sponsored by Amstel Bright Beer. All other classes will have racing in various formats.

Riccardo Pavoncelli’s 66’ Gunboat Mana and the 66’ HH Nemo owned by Todd Slyngstad will face off with Nemo looking to defend its winning performance in previous CMC editions. (Which builder/skipper will have the fastest boat?).

Perennial winner Anthony McVeigh’s speedy 2 2 Tango - a Schionning 53 will face off with a newcomer – Richard Wooldridge’s Triple Jack Kelsail 47 for another interesting match-up. And we welcome back the legendary Guy Chester aboard his rugged Crowther trimaran Oceans Tribute – there to set new records.

The Rally will see first timer – Harry Fugate and Off-Piste; another HH - but this time a 50’ cat - flying through the water from Dutch-side to French-side stops and overnights. We will also have another first timer – Pierre-Yves Legris’s Alibi 65 Surprise in the rally.

In a class growing faster than a jitterbug – we will have at least ten VPLP designed French-built Diam 24 open trimaran’s racing for four days in and around the southern shore of St Maarten. We can remember a few years back, when Pierre Altier – Agent for the Diam’s entered only four boats; promising that in future years, the class will grow. Good job Pierre!

And finally – as arguably the most innovative regatta in the Caribbean - CMC organizers announce another breakthrough; i.e. the previously mentioned ‘Time Trials for Cruising Multihulls’. This an answer for those skippers who do not want to officially race, but who want a chance to grab a podium spot at a prize giving. 

NOT A RACE; but rather a timed event with a parade start and no turning marks where collisions can happen, the Time Trials will test a skipper’s speed through the water point A to point B adjusted for a simplified rating each skipper will receive from CMC officials. Never tried before, we will have to see how this works out. Early reports are that some of our entered boats like this idea.

To cap all of this off for CMC VI we have partnered with the Caribbean Cetacean Society and CLEAR Caribbean to raise money for their marine mammal and coral reef preservation operations through the sale of the new official CMC sailing polo from the Netherland’s Magic Marine. Available in limited quantities at $60.00 US; 10% of the sale price will be donated 50/50 to these two organizations.

For info on CMC VI, CaribbeanMultihullChallengecom/. To enter the race or the rally, YachtScoring.com/

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SXM Padel Club Revolutionizes Player Experience with Introduction of Live Streaming for all matches and events

SINT MAARTEN (BELAIR) - SXM Padel Club, a leading Padel facility in the Caribbean, is proud to announce the launch of its cutting-edge live streaming service for all matches played on its three courts. This innovative addition aims to enhance the player’s experience and contribute to the continuous development of Padel enthusiasts at the club.

The live streaming services, powered by local internet carrier FLOW, were unveiled during the International Senior Padel Tournament held at the club last week for the second consecutive year. 

Utilizing an innovative and simple to use Video Service Platform provided by www.sporfie.com, viewers from around the world can now witness the action in real time by visiting our Club's page at this link: https://www.sporfie.com/company/sxmpadelclub

This initiative not only brings the excitement of Padel matches to a global audience but also provides players with an invaluable tool for self-improvement. Participants can replay their sessions, clip highlights, and review their performances at any time, learning from their mistakes, observing standout plays, and elevating their Padel skills to new heights.  

Ricardo Perez, Managing Director of the SXM Padel Group, expressed pride in being the first facility outside the continental United States and its territories to deploy Sporfie's latest video technology. "SXM Padel Club, despite celebrating only its second anniversary, is now offering services comparable to top sports facilities worldwide," said Perez.

He emphasized that the streaming service not only promotes St. Maarten as a premier Padel vacation destination but also contributes to the global growth of the fastest-growing sport.  Advertisers can leverage this platform to showcase their products or services locally and internationally, depending on the viewers' locations. SXM Padel Club, boasting three Padel courts, operates from 6 am to 11 pm daily. 

The facility features the most comprehensive Padel pro-shop in the Caribbean, offering rentals and sales of Padel equipment. A lively bar adds to the post-match experience, providing a space to unwind with a refreshing drink.

Individual and group classes cater to all skill levels, from beginners to advanced players. The club is conveniently located in the Belair area, opposite the Belair Beach Hotel. 

For more information on SXM Padel Club and its live streaming services, please visit sxmpadelclub.matchpoint.com.es/#1 or call at 721-520-4319This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

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SMMC unveils weeklong Christmas Cheer program

SINT MAARTEN (CAY HILL) – St. Maarten Medical Center (SMMC) is thrilled to announce the launch of its weeklong Christmas Cheer program, a heartwarming initiative to spread joy and cheer among its patients, families, and staff during the festive season.

The program runs from Monday, Dec 18th through Friday, Dec 22nd and will feature captivating musical performances by local musicians who have generously volunteered their time and talent to uplift the spirits of those in our care, their families and our staff. Their melodies will fill the hospital corridors with the enchanting sounds of Christmas, creating an uplifting atmosphere that resonates with the true essence of the season.

Local musicians that are set to perform are Dow’s Musical Foundation, the Tribute Troupe & Friends, Chrisincia Mathew & Friends, Fire Coral, Maestro Amajan and Company, and several talented SMMC staffers including a special performance from SMMC’s Cardiologist Dr. Emiko Bird-Lake, IT System Administrator Cecile Griffith and Radio-Diagnostic Technician Farida Abionie.

"We are deeply grateful to the talented musicians who have selflessly committed to sharing their gift of music with our community," said Dr. Felix Holiday, SMMC’s Medical Director "Their generosity will undoubtedly bring comfort and joy to those who are spending the holidays in or passing through our hospital."

SMMC’s Christmas Cheer program will encompass a variety of activities and initiatives designed to spread holiday cheer throughout the hospital. These include festive decorations of the public areas done by SMMC’s Social Committee and volunteers from the St. Maarten AIDS Foundation Youth Wing and open mic sessions. SMMC hereby asks you to join us for joyous caroling sessions, filling the hospital with the heartwarming melodies of Christmas.

“Together, we can make this Christmas truly unforgettable for those who rely on our care. Join us in spreading the spirit of giving and spreading Christmas cheer throughout the hospital!”, concluded Dr. Holiday.

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Anguilla Teachers' Union and WITU St. Maarten Forge Historic Partnership with MOU

SINT MAARTEN/BARBADOS — In a landmark move towards fostering collaboration and solidarity, the Anguilla Teachers' Union (ATU) and the Windward Island Teachers’ Union St. Maarten (WITU) have officially entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The signing ceremony took place today in Barbados, solidifying a commitment to joint initiatives that will benefit teachers in both territories.

The purpose of this MOU is to establish a comprehensive framework for cooperation and collaboration, promoting the interests and welfare of teachers in Anguilla and St. Maarten. Both unions recognize the importance of shared information, joint initiatives, and mutual support in ensuring the well-being and professional development of their members.

President Stuart Johnson expressed his enthusiasm about the collaborative efforts, stating, "This Memorandum of Understanding marks a significant milestone in the history of our unions. By working together, we can address common challenges, share resources, and ultimately enhance the educational experience for our teachers and students."

President Terron Azille highlighted the importance of solidarity, saying, "Our partnership with WITU signifies a commitment to the well-being and professional growth of our teachers. Together, we can amplify our voices, share best practices, and create a positive impact on the education sector in both Anguilla and St. Maarten."

The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding took place in Barbados on December 12, 2023, symbolizing a shared vision for the future of education in the region.

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Philipsburg to Transform into a "Maagical" Festive Weekend Extravaganza

SINT MAARTEN (MADAME ESTATE) - This holiday season, Philipsburg is set to become a winter wonderland as Xtratight Entertainment proudly presents "Philipsburg becomes Maagical," a joyous event taking place from Friday, December 15, to Sunday, December 17, on the Boardwalk. The community is invited to immerse themselves in the holiday spirit and kick off the festive season with a weekend full of entertainment, shopping, and family-friendly activities.

Friday Night Concert - The festivities begin on Friday evening with an electrifying concert featuring a killer lineup of DJs and live bands. DJ Chubs, Nexxt Level, Generation New Status STM and Destiny Band will take the stage, ensuring a night filled with infectious beats and dancing. The event kicks off at 5:00 PM, setting the tone for a weekend of celebration.

Saturday and Sunday Christmas Market Extravaganza - On Saturday and Sunday, the Maagical experience continues with a Christmas market boasting over 60 vendors offering a wide array of holiday goodies, punches, personalized items, baskets, clothes, and gift items. Families can enjoy the bouncy castles for the kiddies while indulging in the festive atmosphere.

Saturday's entertainment lineup promises a diverse range of performances, including DJ Chubs, Ebony Steel Orchestra, Family String Band, See5, Control Band, and Ruff and Ready Band. The festivities commence from 1:00 PM, ensuring a full day of fun for attendees.

The Grand Finale on Sunday features DJ Chubs, Sweet Pan, Bottle Neck Blowing Stars, Generation New Status STM, Benjamin Bell, and TMO with the event closing out in spectacular fashion with a breathtaking fireworks show. Festivities begin at 4:00 PM, creating a perfect conclusion to the weekend celebration.

Mr. Bertaux "Rude" Fleming, Managing Director of Xtratight Entertainment, expresses gratitude to the countless vendors who have registered for Philipsburg becomes Maagical. The event would not be possible without the support of sponsors including St Maarten Tourist Office, Flow, Viva Signs, GEBE, Quality Sweepers, and Genesis Music Group. We appreciate our sponsors and vendors immensely. Without you, there would be no event. We look forward to a fantastic weekend filled with surprises, music, dancing, and beautiful memories as we countdown to Christmas," says Mr. Fleming.

FLOW will bring the festive spirit to life with an array of fun activities and delightful surprises. Additionally, Kooyman will be spreading the joy of the giving season with endless giveaways, providing you with the perfect opportunity to win something special just in time for Christmas.

Families are encouraged to bring the kids, as a special visitor from the North Pole will be making an appearance on the boardwalk. Capture precious family moments with a unique photo opportunity against the festive backdrop.

Xtratight Entertainment looks forward to welcoming the entire community for a Maagical weekend that promises to be the highlight of the holiday season. Join us for an unforgettable celebration of joy, unity, and the magic of Christmas.

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Ministry of Justice Initiates Public Tender for Law Enforcement Institute of Sint Maarten. Cutting-edge learning facility for the personnel of the Ministry of Justice

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY) - The Honorable Minister of Justice, Anna E. Richardson, is spearheading the establishment of a cutting-edge learning facility for the personnel of the Ministry of Justice. In a significant move towards this goal, Minister Richardson has officially published a public tender, inviting architectural firms to submit proposals for the design of the proposed school, which will be referred to as the Law Enforcement Institute of Sint Maarten (LEIS). 

The vision for the facility will encompass classrooms, a vehicle repair shop, Forensic lab (small), gymnasium, shooting range, social spaces and administrative offices.

The allocated property for the LEIS project is on Orange Grove Road, Cole Bay. The Ministry of Justice is committed to enhancing its services to the country, and thus the creation of LEIS is a crucial step towards continuously building and strengthening Sint Maarten's law enforcement capacities. 

Furthermore, the Ministry of Justice is extending an open invitation to eligible consulting firms to provide technical and financial proposals for consulting services for the development of a conceptual design of LEIS.

The scope of services includes the development of a conceptual design, rendering of the LEIS building, initial cost estimates, and budgetary requirements. 

Interested parties must incorporate a Terms of Reference (TOR) which will serve as part of a bidding package for services to prepare the full design, considering guidelines and norms. 

Minister Anna E. Richardson expressed her enthusiasm about the much-needed and long-overdue accredited education facility. "I am thrilled to see the Law Enforcement Institute of Sint Maarten become a reality. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to the continuous improvement of law enforcement capabilities. We will also work closely with the Ministry of Education to ensure that the facility and its curriculums meet accreditation standards and educational codes, providing our personnel with the best possible training,” summarized the Justice Minister. 

The Consultant is expected to deliver within a period of two (2) months, which will be followed by the required review and approvals by the Ministry of Justice. 

Interested parties are invited to visit the websites of the Ministry of Justice www.ministryofjusticesx.com or Government of Sint Maarten www.sintmaartengov.org for full tender details to place their bids in accordance with the provided guidelines. 

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Carib Swim Team Shines in Recent Competitions and Hosts Successful Guardian Group Swim Meet

SINT MAARTEN (COLE BAY) - Carib Swim Team (CST) hosted the Guardian Group Swim Meet on November 17th and 18th, welcoming fellow swimming enthusiasts from Anguilla Aquastars, St. Maarten Super Splash Swimming Team, and Dolphin Swim Club. Each year the Guardian Group Sponsors this amazing local event which showcases exemplary sportsmanship and skill from all participants. 

"The Guardian Group Swim Meet provided a platform for swimmers to demonstrate their dedication and passion for the sport. Even though the season just started, great results were met! We extend our appreciation to the participating teams, volunteers, and sponsors for contributing to the success of this event," said Eline Broere, Coach at Carib Swim Team. 

The event wouldn't have been possible without the invaluable contributions of Guardian Group Insurance and our dedicated volunteers, whose efforts behind the scenes ensured the smooth execution of the meet. It is important to offer opportunities like this to our local and regional student athletes. A heartfelt thank you was extended to the Anguilla Aquastars, St. Maarten Super Splash Swimming Team, and Dolphin Swim Club for their spirited participation. 

The Carib Swim Team takes pride in the achievements of its students, many of whom achieved personal best times during the Guardian Group Swim Meet, reflecting their dedication to continuous improvement. 

The CST athletes greatly enjoyed the meet and the opportunity to showcase their skills locally. “We had a lot of fun this meet! It was great to have 2 sessions so we could race more events than if it would have been just 1 session. Also, to have a session in the evening changed the setting completely. We are excited for the rest of the season and our next meet on December 10th,” stated some of the team members. 

The Carib Swim Team looks forward to building on these successes and continuing to foster a culture of excellence, sportsmanship, and community engagement among its young athletes. Competitive sports play a pivotal role in the holistic development of children and teenagers, fostering physical, mental, and social well-being. Engaging in organized sports not only promotes a healthy and active lifestyle but also instills essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, resilience, and goal setting. 

Through competition, CST athletes learn the value of hard work and perseverance, gaining a profound understanding of success and failure. Overall, competitive sports provide a structured and positive outlet for energy, helping shape the character of children and teenagers, preparing them for life's challenges, and fostering a sense of community and belonging. 

Guardian 2

 Guardian 5

 Guardian 7

 

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Brison wants clarity on local banks' role in forcing ‘Revolut’ exit from St. Maarten

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) – Member of Parliament (MP) Rolando Brison on Monday raised a pressing concern regarding the withdrawal of services from St. Maarten by digital bank Revolut, apparently as a consequence of actions taken by local banks. MP Brison directed his question to the Minister of Finance, seeking intervention and clarity on the matter and expressing his apprehensions about the actions of local banks and the potential hindrance to local economic diversification.

It vexed the MP that the same banks, that offers no innovation of fintech services, are now obstructing opportunities for locals and stifling economic growth. He underscored the need for a more inclusive approach from local banks, urging them to actively contribute to the growth of ecommerce rather than impeding progress.

Brison acknowledged the prerogative of companies to make decisions about their operations, stating, "That's a company decision, and I would think anyone would have to respect it." However, he delved into the matter by highlighting the grievances of local residents who were informed by Revolute that the service would no longer be available to persons with addresses in St. Maarten.

This service is incorporated as a bank in countries like the United States, Canada, Singapore, Japan, Australia, New Zealand and also in Portugal, but their online banking services are available globally in any country that does not expressly forbid it by law. St. Maarten is legislatively one such country that does not legally forbid citizens from using foreign online banking, while the USA does have such restrictions. Benefits and features vary and include easy money management, travel perks, and investment opportunities.

Some users, Brison explained, in pursuit of understanding the abrupt decision, sought answers from Revolut's help desk. According to Brison, the responses indicated that commercial banks in St. Maarten had expressed complaints about Revolut, escalating the matter to the Central Bank. Allegedly, the pressure exerted on Revolut by local banks led to its decision to exit the local market.

“The same banks, that have done absolutely nothing to help our local people get into e-commerce, are now complaining about alternate services and telling them they shouldn’t be in St. Maarten. If the banks were taking the initiative to properly offer online international e-commerce for artists to use like musicians who want to sell their music online and collect it via a service like Spotify that would be one thing. But none of that is being offered,” MP Brison said, adding that this latest action by the banks once again shows the system of banking on St. Maarten has continued to ignore innovations that should come from within.

Returning to the issue on Tuesday during the Central Committee meeting, MP Brison explained that in light of our current legal framework, as outlined in Article 2 of the banking oversight ordinance, it's essential to clarify that only banks physically established in Saint Martin are required to obtain a banking license from the Central Bank. Drawing a parallel with the Business License Ordinance, which applies similar rules to physical stores operating in St. Maarten, he said it becomes evident that online entities, like Amazon, facilitating transactions for citizens in St. Maarten, do not require a specific license to operate.

The existing law, he pointed out, that dates back to 1994, does not mandate online banking services to obtain a license to operate in St. Maarten. This legal perspective, as pointed out by MP Brison to Minister of Finance Ardwell Irion, is particularly crucial given the current circumstances where local banks are not offering comparable online services. Legally speaking, he stressed, there is no impediment for citizens of St. Maarten to subscribe to online banking services from external providers.

MP Brison emphasizes the importance of acknowledging this legal reality and encourages a welcoming stance towards such services. He asserts that until the time when local banks can match these offerings, there should be no obstruction to citizens utilizing these services. Brison advocates for updating legislation in line with the evolving financial landscape, ensuring a balanced approach that accommodates both the needs of the citizens and the growth of the local banking sector.

Brison argued that if there is a requirement for international banking services to obtain a license, it should be done transparently and fairly. Brison advocated for continued efforts, such as the Payment Services Act from the Central Bank, to regulate these entities and foster a conducive environment for financial innovation.

Brison further criticized local banks for their lack of initiatives in offering online international ecommerce solutions to the community. He emphasized the importance of supporting local entrepreneurs, artists, and small businesses in their efforts to engage in ecommerce and diversify the local economy.

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A Review: Celebrating the St. Martin Unity Flag; spelling St. Martin Day and its meaning, by Rhoda Arrindell, PhD

SINT MAARTEN (GREAT BAY) - Firstly, let me congratulate my brother, President Louis Mussington, and his team for taking the initiative to put on the Unity Flag activities during the week leading up to St. Martin Day, and particularly those involving the school children, the ones who are inheriting the effects of the decisions we make today. I am both humbled and grateful for the invitation and opportunity to substitute for my other brother Lasana Sekou to highlight this important symbol of our culture, the St. Martin Unity Flag.

As each year we celebrate St. Martin Day on November 11, let us be reminded that November 11 is NOT a celebration of the “discovery” of the island by Christopher Columbus; it is NOT a celebration of the division of the island by the Dutch and French or the 1648 Partition Treaty, also known as the Treaty of Concordia.

Whereas the Treaty of Concordia—officially named the Partition Treaty by its architects—divides the island and exploits it in the interest of Europe, the Unity Flag, by contrast, underscores the historical unity of the island’s people.

The Curacao historian A.F. Paula wrote in his book Vrije Slaven that, certainly by 1816, the Blacks of St. Martin had already constituted themselves as a “united” community of enslaved people—and, according to Sekou, “we may add to that with certainty the centuries-long centrality of the Great Salt Pond at the foundation of that community.”

This unity helped the majority of the island’s people to survive the centuries of enslavement and later colonialism. It is also why today that we still have close relations with our immediate neighboring islands like St. Eustatius, Saba, Anguilla, St. Barths, St. Kitts and Nevis, St. Thomas, and St. Croix based on trade, family, and friendship.

So, yes, November 11 is the celebration of the oneness—not the division—of the St. Martin people. We know that the date was settled on in 1959 by two legendary, elected leaders of the St. Martin people, Claude Wathey from the south and Dr. Hubert Petit from the north, with the support of their contemporaries, especially Clem Labega and Felix Choisy, as a people’s celebration.

According to Dr. Petit, the founders of what is still the island’s only jointly celebrated day, were very clear that “the St. Martin people needed a celebration for themselves,”1 and they were not going to celebrate the division of the island by the two colonial countries.2

These political leaders who had grown up in the Traditional St. Martin period were clear that the day would henceforth be labeled St. Martin Day, using another symbol of our culture, the English language as we know it, to correctly represent our day. They must have also been mindful of the dangers of division and refrained from using the slash that is regularly used by some today.

You see, when we write “St. Maarten/St. Martin,” we are literally putting a slash—a symbol of conflict, division, and violence—between the official names for the two territories, while at the same time we claim we are celebrating our unity.

While some may choose to use the slash (in English) to show that two things are closely related, it is mostly used to represent the word “or” and to show opposition, and it is avoided in formal writing.

When we use the slash, we are in essence referring to either one of the two parts of the island, and not the entire island, and we are showing just the opposite of what the intention of the celebration is. Actions like these are what author, revolutionary thinker, psychiatrist Frantz Fanon would refer to as the schizophrenia of the colonized mind.3

Further, when the apostrophe is used in English, it is to indicate possession or omission. An apostrophe after “St. Martin” indicates that either the day belongs to St. Martin (possession) or that something is missing between “St. Martin” and the letter “s” (omission).

As stated previously and repeatedly, November 11 is the celebration of St. Martin people’s oneness, with “St. Martin” functioning as an adjective to modify the word “day.”

The correct way then to represent what we celebrate on November 11 in writing, as in spoken language, is “St. Martin Day,” just like when we say Aruba Day, Saba Day, or Independence Day.

On November 11 we also celebrate our spirit of inventiveness, of not allowing our present condition to become an insurmountable obstacle to our coming together as a family; it is that sprit of overcoming adversity through our creativity that we celebrate on St. Martin Day.

That spirit gave birth to cultural forms like the quimbé song (as it did for others with, for example, kaiso in the cane fields), the ponum dance, and the age-old practice of jollification.

On August 31, 1990, when the Unity Flag was launched at Philipsburg Jubilee Library by the Information Committee on National Symbols (ICONS),4 it was presented to the people of St. Martin for their endorsement, to honor that spirit of unity and inventiveness.

The launch was pre-dated and followed by a long period of research, writing, and dialogue with various people and organizations, particularly with elders residing on both parts of the island. In fact, the book National Symbols of St. Martin – A Primer, first published in 1996, was one of the outcomes of that period of study, writing, and discussion.5

Over the years, the island’s people have embraced the flag in several ways and given it names such as “the national flag,” “the people’s flag,” “the cultural flag,” “the St. Martin Flag.” And, yes, “Unity Flag.”

The flag has been flown on buildings, marking the tradition of raising a flag on the highest point of a building under construction. The Unity Flag has also been used in marches, pageants, school programs, church ceremonies, weddings, graduations, sports competitions, conferences, and carnival performances—at home and abroad. Recently, the St. Martin Unity Flag was hoisted on Mount Everest in the Himalayas, Asia and on Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa.6

These are some of the ways the St. Martin people have validated the Unity Flag as a symbol of their identity, for over 33 years. Some of our youngsters here to celebrate St. Martin Day 2023 were not yet born, at least not during the first two decades of the growing uses of the flag symbolizing our unity.

When on September 16, 2020, the people of our island decided to protest the closing of the border at Bellevue, the response came not from the “French side” or “Dutch side” but from the people island-wide, regardless of their backgrounds. At that moment, they were all St. Martiners, and the symbol they rallied around was the St. Martin Unity Flag.7

One reason why it was so easy for the people to embrace the flag was because of the symbols, in which they saw themselves and the very natural environment of our island. Not only could they relate to the bold and beautiful colors of the flag, but they could also connect with the symbolism of the other icons such as the sacrifice of the crowning brown pelican, the strength of the tamon (tamarind) tree, and the healing properties of the aloe plant.

So, when the council of the Collectivity, and subsequently the government in the South, made the decision to officially endorse the Unity Flag as a cultural symbol, “affirming the unity and identity”8 of the St. Martin people, it seemed like a natural progression in a process of (re-)validation of the flag. Like with all bona fide campaigns, the governments followed the lead set by the people for over three decades.

Editor’s Note:

Rhoda Arrindell, PhD, president, One SXM Association; linguist, author; lecturer, Howard University.

(Article prepared for the first anniversary of the recognition of the St. Martin Unity Flag; panel discussion organized by the Collectivity of St. Martin. Lazy Bay, November 10, 2023.)

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