GREAT BAY--The Peoples' Tribune was recognized by the Parliament of St. Maarten on Tuesday for its commitment to responsible artificial intelligence, digital trust and the strengthening of informed and empowered communities.
The recognition formed part of Parliament’s activities marking the opening of the 2026-2027 Parliamentary Year and was presented under the theme, “Building Digital Trust: Responsible AI for a Stronger Democracy and Empowered Communities.”
According to the Certificate of Appreciation, the recognition acknowledges The Peoples' Tribune’s commitment to “advancing responsible AI principles, strengthening digital trust, safeguarding democratic values, and fostering resilient, empowered communities in an increasingly connected world.”
Managing Editor Michael Granger accepted the recognition from President of Parliament Sarah Wescot-Williams at the Parliament Building later Tuesday, after being unable to attend the official awards ceremony held earlier in the day.
In presenting the recognition on behalf of Parliament, Wescot-Williams highlighted the role of The Peoples' Tribune in providing public-interest information and diverse perspectives at a time when communities are increasingly navigating an information environment shaped by artificial intelligence.
She noted that reliable information remains critical to ensuring that citizens are equipped to question, verify, discuss and make informed decisions about the issues affecting their lives and communities.
The recognition comes as The Peoples' Tribune continues to expand its use of digital platforms while maintaining a focus on public-interest journalism, accessibility of information and the responsible use of emerging technology.
Granger, a career journalist and media professional in St. Maarten for 30 years, has described The Peoples' Tribune as a labor of love and journalism as “the most noble profession in the world, once practiced as it should.”
He said the recognition is deeply appreciated by the Tribune team and reflects the importance of continuing to adapt journalism to a changing information landscape without losing sight of its basic responsibility to inform the public.
The Peoples' Tribune team extended its thanks to the Parliament of St. Maarten for the recognition and for acknowledging the role that responsible journalism, public information and digital trust can play in strengthening democratic participation.
Team Tribune consists of a number of local contributors, together with Granger's daughters who are currently University students majoring in Marketing & Communications in the Netherlands.