We need proof and we need our money

It doesn’t matter where you put the money anymore. Both the board of trustees and lawmakers have no better solution. But at least, in today’s article, Gov. Fitial has a point. Only we just need proof. Like, for example, who are these beneficiaries? Are they relatives of the lawmakers who made that failed law?

If Richard Villagomez provides us with proof that what he is saying is all true, then why in the first place did he wait this long to tell the retirees about all these problems?

Lawmakers, you said that buyback of SS is the solution, yet the active members already expressed that they want their contributions back, so what’s holding you back? Is there something we need to know? What makes you think that Social Security is right for us?

Another thing: Since this money is being deducted from our paychecks, why can’t we be allowed to take it back?

Gov. Fitial and lawmakers, I’ve been to Rota for a funeral recently. Many families there whose paychecks have been reduced are facing poverty far worse than what I’ve seen before. Aside from that, making money or even small business is very hard because there are always other competitors that are better. Fishing and farming are also hard, because many jobless foreign workers are also fishing and going about the same business to make a living. Many times, too, our farm was vandalized by hungry families. And to hire laborers is also difficult with very little money. Loaning money is impossible as many of us already have lost our credentials to apply for a loan. Even those living under food stamp are facing hardships from reduced food stamps. Many families who are not eligible for Medicaid and are ill are getting worse because either they couldn’t pay for medical care or cannot afford to pay for their medication or purchase the food they need. So, if there is any humanity left in your heart, please give us our money back and let us invest it ourselves and find other means of making a living. Whatever your reason for holding the money, please open your heart and hear the cries of your people.

Not doing so is probably why those crimes on Saipan are happening already. Tourist are being robbed, murdered, children kidnapped, rapes, poker robberies and many more. Don’t wait for it to get worse. Find ways to help your people with their living necessities.

Again, open your ears and your eyes, and from your heart extend your hand to the cries of your people because you’re killing us.

Winnie Atalig
San Jose Village, Tinian