Aaaaagh! Parliament!
So, being Barbados, obviously they welcome me in a bar, because in what universe would they not?
And they gift me a drink. Then Ruth takes me around!
I’m her first tour since the pandemic! So, I feel super special.
She takes me around and explain how the Bajan government works.
I really hope I’m explaining this correctly, because I’m going off of what I retained and remember, not like official things haha. So… if this information is super important to you, like, fact check me, just to be sure.
My understanding is that you only vote for your local representative. And whatever party wins the majority gets the Prime Minister. And then, the prime minister appoints the majority of senators (and the minority party gets to appoint some other ones).
So, the winning party will always have all the branches.
On the one hand, this is so awesome, because you could actually do things in power. On the other hand, this is scary because imagine all another party could do.
But, in Barbados, apparently all parties believe in things we argue about here – healthcare for all, abortion access, etc.
So, you’re just voting for more nuanced things, and also how you tackle the issues that basically everyone agrees on.
Anyway, Parliament was gorgeous. I got to see both chambers and the cute walkway between.
I was so so grateful to Ruth and Wilfred and everyone. What an incredibly special day!
And then I’ll get back to the rest of the trip tomorrow!