By Pacific Island Times News Staff
Sen. Joanne Brown has taken a firm stand against misconduct within the 37th Guam Legislature, including advocating for accountability and condemning the troubling behavior exhibited by Sen. William Parkinson during a recent emergency session.
During legislative deliberations about critical funding for the Mayors’ Council of Guam, Guam Cancer Care, and other agencies, Parkinson made an inappropriate sexual gesture, which sparked outrage and condemnation from his colleagues and community leaders.
Brown highlighted the importance of dignity and civility in legislative deliberations: “While professionalism is essential, our conduct as public servants is paramount. The values we uphold in the Legislature—respect, integrity, and accountability—reflect our commitment to the people we serve.”
Brown’s remarks were echoed by Piti Mayor Jesse Alig, who expressed he was “appalled, outraged, and insulted” by Parkinson’s actions, emphasizing that such behavior undermines the very fabric of our community.
Brown’s call for accountability underscores the need for a political environment that promotes respectful dialogue, especially regarding vital community needs.
"Senator Parkinson's actions exemplify the pervasive culture of disrespect and entitlement that too often permeates our political institutions," Brown said. "His attempt to deflect criticism through disinformation only serves to reinforce the need for a collective call for action against behaviors that perpetuate a ho
She added that Parkinson’s attempt to characterize this blatant misconduct as a misunderstanding is not only disingenuous but also indicative of a troubling pattern of evasiveness. This tactic serves to shift the focus away from the seriousness of his actions, allowing him to evade accountability.
Brown reinforced the necessity for lawmakers to uphold the highest standards of conduct: “For the health of our democracy, we must maintain a space for respectful and constructive dialogue within our legislative halls. While tempers may escalate during intense deliberations, we must rise above these challenges and actively oppose toxic, intimidating environments that allow misogyny and disrespect to go unchecked.” (Guam Legislature)
Comments