The Home Journal

Chapman's Challenge

"It goes without saying that we will continue to urge that programs offered federal assistance to states and territories include the Virgin Islands, and that other programs now in operation here be retained. But it is reasonable to expect that the greater share of responsibility for your own well-being and progress will shortly be yours."

Those were the words of Oscar Chapman, Secretary of the Interior, in a message which was read here at the cornerstone-laying ceremony for the new hospital.

Mr. Chapman emphasized that how "you cope with those responsibilities will depend primarily on how you handle your political obligations." The development of a party system, and the participation in politics and government by able persons who now hold themselves aloof from these activities were held to be the most important objectives of a people seeking greater self-government.

Although we believe that the people of the Virgin Islands are prepared to assume a greater measure of self-government, we have to admit that we have not yet developed proper political mechanisms. Everyone deplores the lack of political parties, but the most we do is talk about it. We have not made any
We leave it to others to do the task for them. Many citizens are too timid or complacent to take an active part in politics. Too many believe it is beneath their dignity.

The appearance of new candidates in the special election of May 24, and the expected entry of many more in the general election in November are encouraging signs.

If the Democrats, who have announced they will take an active part in local politics act as if they are alive we may have the beginning of the system which, everyone recognizes, is a prerequisite to political advancement.