Trini mas for CHOGM

I quote -
 

1. Instead of steupsing in a corner, let us use our creativity to set a new agenda for Deepening Democracy in Trinidad and Tobago, in accordance with one of the main themes of the CHOGM.

 

2. Let us ‘bring out’ a Carnival Band in the People’s Space under the Banner DEEPEN DEMOCRACY:Represent ALL interests in  a CIVIL SOCIETY SENATE

 

3.A Civil Society Senate would provide the essential mechanism for monitoring, on an on-going basis, the FOUR essential foundations of democracy:

 

Equity, 

Accountability.

Transparency

Respect for Diversity

 

(Once our Carnival Band succeeds in stimulating national discussion on transforming the Senate, a broad consensus will subsequently have to be negotiated regarding the role and processes for the selection and operation of the Senate and responsibilities of Senators re representing their groups’ interests. This would then have to be entrenched in the new Constitution.) 

 

3. In the tradition of all Carnival Bands, there will be sections. The following section names are proposed, subject to adjustments, to represent the broad range of Civil Society concerns:

 

1.Sustainable Resource Planning

 

2.Food Security

 

3. Lifelong Learning 

 

4.Health & Wellness

 

5. Childrens Rights & Parenting

 

6. Disadvantaged/Elderly Citizens

 

7.Youth and Sport

 

8.Justice and Rehabilitation

 

9.Workers’ Rights and Responsibilities

 

10. Employers’ Rights and Responsibilities

 

11.Housing, Utilities and Transport

 

12. Governance Issues

 

13. Professional Organizations

 

14. Creative Artists

 

15. Cultural Heritages

 

16. Energy Sector

 

17. Manufacturing

 

18.Marine Industries and Livelihoods

 

19.Social Workers

 

20.Regional  Representatives

 

21. Media Associations 

 

 

4. Only civil society organizations themselves can decide which category  or alternate name  best covers their areas of interests. Consequently, we propose to allocation a colour code to each category so that we can advertise: 

Bring/wear your colours and come jump in a section!

 

5. The formation of the Band, hopefully accompanied by Tassa and Pan should be seen as a joyous occasion for stimulating cooperation and collaboration among civil society organizations."

End quote.-

Bertrand says "The above is meant to encourage you to find out more of your responsibilities for living in a community. Do Contact T&T Citizens CAN for more info as you feel that burning itch to fix things.

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