First Time Voter

Today, February 26th 2018, I got the opportunity to execute my civil duty and head to the voting polls to cast my vote for the first time ever.  Everyone except me was excited that I finally had a chance to make an important decision on who will run our country. The reason why I wasn't excited was simple. I was just conflicted.  Conflicted as to who was worthy of my vote, conflicted that I would accidentally vote for the wrong person, conflicted that I might panic and fill in the ballot incorrectly. 

Arriving at my polling station, My father, mother and I took our spots in the line, which was pretty long for 8 am. The characteristics that were portrayed in the line showed the spirit of a true "Seh Maahtener"; funny, friendly and caring.

​Conversation starters ranged from "How are you doing, long time no see." to "Boy, I gah go work nuh, they taking long." to "Buh neighbour, how you throw us away so." Chuckling at the various discussions, my mind was racing. I still did not know who I was going to vote for? In the words of my friend Astra, "Impossible." 

As the police officer motioned for me to enter the building, I stood in line debating, whether I should start singing campaign jingles and vote for the one that pops up in my head in booth. I quickly scratched off that idea, knowing I would end up singing a jingle for a candidate that's on a party I would never support. 
I handed my voting card to the first lady, she read out all of my government information and I was handed my voting ballot. I quickly scurried to the voting booth, struggling to unfold the document. Finally finding my party, I picked up the red colouring pencil and chose a candidate. 

It was that simple. The action reminded me of doing my multiple choice exams for CSEC, which I struggled with more than actually voting. 

I was panicking for no reason. However, it was a good thing to take this election very seriously. This election will actually show the true decision of the people of Sint Maarten. It can end extremely bad, or extremely well. We will just have to wait and see. 

Let us talk about why voting is extremely important. 

The right to vote is a right that has been fought for. Our people fought, shed blood and tears to be able to dictate their destiny and the future of  generations to come. We are that generation. Now you might be fed up with the persons that are in charge, but how can you change that if you don't vote them out? Your vote can make or break the results of the elections. Your vote can change the destiny of the future generations. We should all be happy that we have the opportunity to vote. 

Now I know persons might say that they could care less about the politics of the nation, but one must remember this. Whatever is decided in the legislature will effect you, your family and everyone else. Even if it isn't a direct threat to you, don't you think it would be nice to be the voice for the people that can't vote. Be a voice for the immigrants, the youth, the elderly, the poor? 

So this is my advice to you today, if you live in a country where you have to register to vote, make sure you register now , like today. Also be sure to have all the necessary documents, such as photo IDs ready for when it is time to vote. 


I am Kamilah Gumbs, an official voter, and I approve this message. 

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