Empowering Voices and Defending Democracy: Equal Ground rallies the community in support of Monique Worrell.

In a display of unity, the recent "Rally for Our Democracy" event organized by Equal Ground Orlando drew attention not only to the suspension of Orange/Osceola County State Attorney Monique Worrell, but also to the broader threats to democracy facing Florida and the nation. Caribbean American Passport was present with other leaders in the Caribbean Community to stand up for Democracy.

Monique Worrell, the State Attorney at the heart of this event, has roots in the Caribbean. Her parents immigrated to the United States, she was born in Brooklyn. She embodies the spirit of Caribbean Americans who contribute significantly to the fabric of American society. As a community we were so proud of her election to this office, many knew her parents and worked tirelessly across Orange and Osceola to share her vision. She was overwhelming elected with 66% of the vote. It should not be taken lightly that the voters of Orange and Osceola have been robbed of the person they chose to represent them as State Attorney. If you don’t agree with it, then you have the right to vote her out in the next election. That’s how we thought democracy worked. Worrell's story is a testament to the vibrancy and strength that Caribbean Americans bring to all facets of American life, including public service.

As the only Black woman State Attorney in Florida, Monique Worrell's suspension by Governor Ron DeSantis sparked outrage and calls for solidarity. The event organized by Equal Ground Orlando provided a platform for voices to rise against what many perceive as a disregard for democracy and an abuse of power. Elected officials, community leaders, and organizations, including Caribbean American Passport, united to denounce this action and emphasize the need to stand together in defense of democratic principles.

Worrell's message of resilience and determination resonated strongly during the event. "I am absolutely going to stand strong. I am going to fight. I am not going to back down. I am going to continue to do everything that I said that I would do," she declared, inspiring attendees to persevere in the face of adversity.

Caribbean American Passport's presence at this event underscores the organization's commitment to supporting and amplifying the voices of Caribbean American individuals and communities in times of need. We will keep bringing you coverage as it unfolds. We remind you all that now more than ever we all need to amplify the voices that advocate for justice, equity, and the fundamental rights that underpin democracy.

During the press conference immediately following her dismissal, Worrell said DeSantis' decision resembled the "loss of democracy.""Elected officials are being taken out of office solely for political purposes and that should never be a thing," she said. "There used to be a very high standard for the removal of elected officials. There used to be a standard that I would have been criminally prosecuted for something, neglecting my duties – meaning that I'd not show up for work and do my job – or that I have some sort of an illness that prevented me from doing my job.

"But under this tyranny, elected officials can be removed simply for political purposes and by a whim of the governor and no matter how you feel about me, you should not be OK with that."

None of us should be ok with that.

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