Coalition of guest workers

Hundreds showed up in today's general membership meeting of the newly formed Coalition of United Guest Workers (CNMI) at the Garapan Central Park. But they said the word "Guest" will soon be deleted from the group's name, in light of federalization.

The gathering was festive -- lots of Bangladeshis, Chinese, Filipinos and local supporters, free food, free entertainment (live bands, dances). The group now has a formal set of officers led by Irene Tantiado. Jerry Custodio of the Human Dignity Movement is also among the officers.
The guest speaker, Guam-based businessman and senatorial bet Alfredo Antolin's message was that of "patience." He said one year after Bush signs the measure this month and the CNMI immigration will be federalized.

Dekada leaders did not show up, although the coalition has been trying to reach out to them for the sake of real unity -- the same that was shown during December's historic unity march. Maybe in a few days or weeks, we will see one solid group of guest workers in the CNMI.