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.
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 prior to 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 combatting 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 wellbeing
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, panelist & 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.
For additional information, please contact:
Ministry of Public Health, Social Development and Labor (VSA)
Government of Sint Maarten
https://www.sintmaartengov.org/news/Pages/The-Minister-of-Public-Health-Social-Development-and-Labor-(VSA)-extends-heartfelt--congratulations-to-the-filmmaker-and-t.aspx
