Sen. Alicia V. Barnes held her second annual International Women’s Day Roundtable Discussion on Friday, March 6, on St. Croix. Female student leaders from public, private and parochial schools, junior and senior high schools on St. Croix, as well as from the University of the Virgin Islands participated in the discussion on “An Equal World Is an Enabled World” — the theme of International Women’s Day 2020!
Carol Burke, national committeewoman of the Virgin Islands Democratic Party and former senator, served as the moderator of the engaging and insightful discussion. Approximately 25 students participated.
Discussions centered on creating an environment where females are empowered to have a place in every space — be it work, church or recreation. Barnes told the students that they are free to celebrate being female, because they are powerful beyond what they can imagine. The senator reminded them to know their worth and value and to never allow their worth or value to be defined or undervalued by others.
Many of the students spoke of being perceived as aggressive when they speak up and speak out. Many stated that they have been told that they should be seen and not heard or have had their accomplishments diminished because they are female. Burke told students that they will be faced with obstacles but they need to own their power and it is okay to demand what you want and to have a voice.
Students thanked Barnes and Burke for listening to them and validating their experiences. Participating schools included St. Croix Central High School, St. Croix Educational Complex, Good Hope Country Day School, University of the Virgin Islands and the Pearl B. Larsen K-8 School.
Sen. Barnes thanked all the student leaders and encouraged them to recognize the greatness that resides within them.
