PHILIPSBURG:--- The Minister of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) extends heartfelt congratulations to the filmmaker and the Breaking the Chokehold Initiative team for the successful completion of their series of community screenings and expresses his enthusiasm for continued collaboration.
Philipsburg, Sint Maarten — December 2025
The Ministry of Public Health, Social Development, and Labor (VSA) announced that the Honorable Minister Richinel S. J. Brug participated in Sint Maarten’s national observance of the annual Unite 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign, held from 25 November to 10 December 2025.
The campaign, which began on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women (25 November) and concluded on International Human Rights Day (10 December), underscored the global community’s commitment to ending violence against women and girls, while strengthening systems that protect dignity, safety, and human rights for all.
In alignment with this year’s theme, the Ministry of VSA partnered with the Breaking the Chokehold Initiative, a community-centered program dedicated to advancing proactive and prevention-based approaches to domestic violence. This initiative placed national focus on: • Early recognition of domestic violence indicators • Safe exit planning before crisis escalation • Strengthening the role of community observers • Promoting community leadership and accountability • Supporting victims while upholding professional and ethical boundaries.
As part of the 16 Days of Activism, the Ministry and its partners hosted three free community screenings of the film Choke Hold, followed by expert panel discussions and a specialized workshop titled “Be Informed. Be Aware. Stand for Change.” The workshop, held on the final night at the University of St. Martin, was facilitated by Ms. Cassandra Richardson, a respected advocate and practitioner in gender-based violence prevention.
Panelists included: • Ms. Patsy Richardson – Sint Maarten Police Force (KPSM) • Ms. Ramona Riley – Domestic Violence Advocate • Dr. Nolan Nanthon – Mental Health Professional • Dr. Ann Marlin-Evans – Clinical Trauma Specialist • Mr. Hubert Pantophlet – Community Representative.
Throughout the observance, Minister Brug emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in combating domestic violence. He stated: “The prevention of domestic violence requires coordinated community action. Through education, awareness, and early intervention, we strengthen our families and communities. The Ministry of VSA remains committed to supporting initiatives that safeguard the well-being and protection of all residents.”
Program Credits: Film: Choke Hold Production: Caribcine Productions & Partners Producer: Mr. Joel Ayuk Moderator: Prince Herbert Martina Trauma Specialist: Simply Ann
The Ministry expressed appreciation to the breaking the chokehold team, panelists & the residents of Sint Maarten who attended the community screening, panel discussion, and workshop and contributed to a unified national response aimed at reducing—and ultimately eliminating—domestic violence in the community.
