HERE are thoughts on a variety of current issues.

A few weeks ago, staff members of the U.S. Congress paid a courtesy visit to the Guam Legislature. As the request to have the meeting in the public hearing room was rejected, the meeting occurred in Speaker Won Pat’s office.

Remaining at the table meant that we are insistent in having our voice influence – in any and all ways – decisions being made about us. Remaining at the table means we know exactly what occurred. We are the vehicles for transparency for this meeting. We know because we were there.

Sen. Guthertz is respected for making a statement. In the end, as she presented her thoughts through writing, we presented ours verbally. Then, we shared with her and the public what was said.

Three branches

A short civics lesson: There are three branches of government. All are of the people, by the people, for the people. Each branch has a function. One is to make the laws, one is to execute the laws, and one is to determine a question of laws. The judicial system serves to determine if laws are broken. While Lady Justice takes awhile, we must trust that the time is well vested – so that the opinions/decisions are complete and well-made. The question of 2010 election violations is being determined by the courts.

Full attention

While there are government models where there is a state level and a local level, a bi-cameral house, and many miles to travel to meet, the Guam model is unique. We have one law-making house that does not have to make airline reservations to meet with the Executive branch. As well, people are able to walk into our offices and speak about their concerns and dreams.

And, they do.

As representatives of all people, our accessibility is essential to our people believing that their voice counts. They – we – don’t always get what we want; but, at the very least, voices can be heard.

This type of work provides a connectivity check as we craft policy in the best interests of the people in an evolving community. The cultural competency of the Guam Legislature is an accessibility that nurtures connectivity, collaboration and responsiveness for all people.

Election reform

Since January 2011, Guam election statutes have changed. From early voting to voting machines, ballot forms, ballot paper, campaign signs – measures addressing these aspects have been passed. Other measures addressing aspects, such as independent candidates and the Uniformed & Overseas Citizen Absentee Voting Act, are on the horizon.

After reviewing the transcripts and reports addressing 2010 violations filed with the Guam Election Commission, it is clear that training and full support will fortify the integrity of the election process. A performance manual needs to clearly and simply describe who does what, who is who, what is done when, how a task is to be done. There must be ample time for training and practice. There must be enough people to help. There is confidence that Executive Director Maria Pangelinan’s leadership will serve us well.