‘Gender balanced VIP team will translate to better representation’ – ‘Roxie’ Romney
The prominent businesswoman and daughter of the late Chief Minister Mr Cyril B. Romney was speaking as part of the women’s rally held at the Sir Olva Georges Plaza in Road Town on Sunday May 31, 2015 which coincided with the launch of the party’s manifesto.
Romney said the people have made it clear that they welcome the increase of women on the VIP ticket, which boasts some six women in the Districts and At Large candidacy. In addition to Romney in the Fourth District, there are Zoe J. Walcott-McMillan in the Fifth District, Oleanvine Pickering-Maynard in the Seventh District and three At Large candidates in Charmaine R. Rosan-Bunbury, Sharie B. de Castro and Irene F. Penn O’Neal.
“As a female entrepreneur I have personally experienced challenges women have to overcome…from the glass ceiling in the corporate arena to the unequal rewards for our skills and talent.”
She noted that, historically, Virgin Islands women have been known to be high achievers in public service, sports and education.
The VIP, she added, continues to foster this legacy by including the number of women on its team. Noting that it was not just symbolic, she said the inclusion highlights the fact that gender balance can and will translate into better representation for all.
A matter of necessity
Romney highlighted that most single parent households are headed by women who make economic decisions every day.
“The VIP and I are convinced that gender equality is a matter of necessity if we are to harness the brightest minds from a cross section of this community, as women are powerful drivers of the economy,” she said.
“Better days are coming where women will be recognised not based on their gender but on their merit.”
She called the women juggling family life and business the true role models for women in the society and added that there is nothing more rewarding than achieving success and sharing the path to that success with others who aspire to follow the example of hard work and commitment.
“My pledge to you tonight and that of the Virgin Islands Party is that we will be relentless and we will be committed to working with you to drive our economy in one direction – Forward!” Romney said.
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31 Responses to “‘Gender balanced VIP team will translate to better representation’ – ‘Roxie’ Romney”
(1) She has a solid and impressive vision for bringing commercial traffic to Crafts Alive and the Main Street shopping area. A high-quality and successful tourism product is in her DNA. This is very important to the vendors in these areas, who will have to market themselves super hard when the landside cruise pier development comes on stream.
(2) Her plans for the softball field are encouraging. Roxie sounds committed in improving the condition of the field and promoting the sport itself.
(3) Improving residential neighbourhoods in D-4 is an attractive proposition. I believe Roxie will succeed in uplifting the general appearance of these residential areas and ensure the provision of facilities that will foster pride and a raised quality of life in these areas, especially for the young people.
(4) The persistent litter problem and sludge, particularly in the main ghut close to the Fire Station, is unforgivable. I should hope that under Roxie's watch, this would be a thing of the past. Roxie, with her hospitality industry background, is keenly aware of the value of aesthetics and a good sanitation system for residents and visitors alike.
Roxie should be given a chance. I know that she may be regarded by some people as being stuck up, though I feel she will try to get to know her constituents well. She did in fact make that commitment. Sometimes it is those whom we least expect who will turn out to be the real champion fighter. Roxie has an A-game when it comes to her business dealings, and I believe she will bring her A-game in representing D-4. I believe the 4th District is ready for a change.
I hope I am wrong. Politicians always say whatever they think you want to hear,
Instead of talking the truth.