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VOX POPULI
Should the CNMI continue celebrating Constitution Day?
Today, Dec. 8, is CNMI Constitution Day, when the Commonwealth commemorates the adoption of its constitution in 1978. However, more and more residents are becoming unaware of the significance of this holiday, so we asked random people to get their opinion whether the CNMI should continue celebrating Constitution Day:
“The Constitution in a lot of ways benefits people and better shape the government. …So, yes, I think we should continue the commemoration of Constitution Day.”
—Issac Perez
Koblerville
“We should celebrate the holiday because it’s fun to celebrate a holiday—no school, no work, just time with family.”
—Karmen Ohri
Chalan Piao
“I think we still should celebrate Constitution Day because I don’t see anything wrong with the way we run our government. Our Constitution is similar to the U.S. Constitution because we followed their lead. And also because of all the privileges we have being born on Saipan. And we are also U.S. citizens, we have the privilege of becoming U.S. citizens when we are born here on Saipan, and Tinian and Rota.”
—Alayssa Mondido
Koblerville
Growing up I wasn’t fully aware of the significance of the CNMI Constitution Day. I looked at it as just another ordinary holiday with no school, so of course we celebrated it. Until I later learned a bit of the importance of it. In my personal opinion I believe that we should continue to observe Constitution Day. It what makes the CNMI a Commonwealth, reminding us that we are U.S. citizens and have our own rights that are protected, giving us so many opportunities that others don’t have.
—Joannie Laniyo
Oleai
I believe celebrating events like Constitution Day is important. To move forward and develop as a nation, it’s important to understand where we come from. It’s important to reflect on the principles and ideas that founded our islands and our nation to better improve our way of life.
—Jeremiah Fernandez
San Antonio
