SXMElections.com

MARIGOT--St. Maarten/St. Martin Alliance for Equality (SAFE) hosted a successful screening of the very entertaining movie “Musical Chairs” at the Cultural Center in Sandy Ground on Wednesday evening.

The event produced a good turnout from a diverse public representing both French and Dutch sides. Elected officials present included First Vice-President and Senator of the Collectivité of St. Martin Guillaume Arnell, Second Vice-President of the Collectivité Ramona Connor and Territorial Councillor René-Jean Duret.

Clients of the Sister Basilia Center from the Dutch side also enjoyed the outing and SAFE wishes to extend thanks to them, their leaders and all other organisations that turned out for the event.

The movie caught the attention of all those who attended, SAFE noted in its release.

“The film which features both disabled and able-bodied actors in rousing dance scenes succeeds in conveying the struggles we all face, making our way, whether through life or on the dance floor, embracing people in all their diversity,” it said.

Janet Carrus, the producer of “Musical Chairs,” was present during the evening and answered questions at the end of the presentation, highlighting the importance of tolerance and respect for each other while accepting the fact that we are all different and unique. Acceptance can create a community where we are allowed to “dance to our own beat,” but can have fun, collaborate and respect each other’s values.

The evening, with free entrance, was fully sponsored by St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty. Audience members were given a brief introduction to SAFE and also encouraged to donate funds to the organisation’s causes; an opportunity several took advantage of. SAFE thanks all of those who contributed to their donation box and says that all funds will be used to benefit the LGBT community of St. Maarten/St. Martin.

This is not the first screening of Musical Chairs on the island, but this year’s turnout far surpassed the previous one and in keeping with the producer’s goal to have the movie grow by word of mouth, touching everyone with its message, SAFE encourages other organisations to also screen the movie at events around the island. Copies of the DVD of the movie are also available at Amazon.com.

SAFE, a young organisation with representation from both sides of the island seeks to highlight the importance of International Human Rights and legal equality no matter one’s gender, race, religious beliefs or sexuality, with special interest for issues pertaining to the LGBT community and their allies.

For more information you can contact their hotline: (1 721) 550-4221 or by email: \n This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . You can also find SAFE on Facebook at: https://www.facebook.com/safe.sxm.