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FYI: Governor Asks Citizens to Vote and to Reject Candidates Who Seek to Divide Us

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Nov. 3, 2008 – Governor John P. deJongh Jr. recorded the following message, which has aired as a public service announcement on radio stations across the territory in the days leading up to Tuesday's general election in the Virgin Islands.
"Today, I want to speak to you not just as your governor, but as a citizen — a proud Virgin Islander and a proud American.
"Like so many of you, and indeed I hope a majority of our fellow Americans, I am filled with excitement and anticipation as we come into the final days before our nation's presidential election.
"The very real possibility that Barack Obama will be elected as our next president is, for me, one of the greatest opportunities America ever had to confirm to ourselves, and to the world, the fundamental American principle that, indeed: All Men Are Created Equal.
"And as the nation approaches this historic Election Day, I believe we in the Virgin Islands also have an opportunity to confirm our commitment to the very same principles of equality.
"I call on each and every Virgin Islander who goes to the polls this Tuesday to reject all who speak of divisions, all who seek to divide us, and all who preach hate and prejudice.
"As Virgin Islanders, we must act as we hope the majority of Americans will act, in a way consistent with and in celebration of our fundamental principles and freedom.
"I ask the voters in our local elections to reject anyone, of any political stripe, who feels that the way to achieve their goal is by a divide and conquer approach, anyone who believes that there can be a future worthy of our territory, or our country, that is achieved by appealing to distinctions of race, creed, or national origin as the basis for their election to public office.
"It is both our duty and the responsibility as citizens of this great country to go to the polls and vote on Election Day, to vote in a way that celebrates our dedication to the principles of equality and justice for all.
"Thank you and may God bless you and the Virgin Islands."

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