WHILE the intent of your bill that was passed by both houses of the Legislature is indeed a good one, the governor has vetoed it. The bill aims to have both local languages taught in high school. While I support this intent, I believe such instruction should begin at the lower grade levels rather than being introduced later.
I began learning the language in elementary school, and it helped carry me through my junior year. However, it was not offered in high school, which limited its continued impact.
I will continue to lobby the Board of Education to jump-start such a program, as the attorney general’s opinion makes clear that it is the BOE’s duty to formulate and promulgate rules, regulations, and policies governing the Public School System. That said, I am honored that you, Senator Castro, are doing what is best for the students of the CNMI.
Guam, for the most part, is losing its local language, and we do not want the Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands to face the same situation. We all share the responsibility of protecting the language and culture of the CNMI. I will continue to write letters to our leaders in support of bills that benefit the CNMI — whether in economic development, education, public health, or other matters affecting our people.
Although I may be away from my home island of Rota, I continue to feel deeply connected to the challenges our people face. The United States has resources available, but accessing them requires effort and persistence. We must work for what we need.
Thank you, and I look forward to seeing more leaders introduce legislation that protects our culture while strengthening healthcare and economic development for our community.
Sincerely,
DEXTER PETER APATANG
Fort Lee, Virginia
