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VSA Minister Richinel Brug (right) with representatives of the initiative.
PHILIPSBURG--Minister of Public Health, Social Development and Labor VSA Richinel Brug has lauded the film-maker and the Breaking the Chokehold Initiative team for successfully completing a series of community film screenings, marking the close of the 2025 observance of Unite 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence Campaign.
Brug joined the national campaign, which ran from November 25 to December 10, 2025. The annual global observance begins on International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women and ends on International Human Rights Day, underscoring the urgent need to end violence against women and girls while strengthening systems that uphold safety, dignity and human rights.
As part of this year’s theme, the Ministry partnered with Breaking the Chokehold Initiative, a programme focused on community-based prevention strategies. The initiative centred on early recognition of domestic violence indicators, safe exit planning before situations escalate, the importance of community observers, promotion of local leadership and accountability, and ethical support for victims.
The Ministry and its partners hosted three free public screenings of the film Choke Hold. Each screening was followed by a panel discussion, and the final night featured a workshop titled “Be Informed. Be Aware. Stand for Change”. The session, held at University of St. Martin (USM), was led by gender-based violence prevention advocate Cassandra Richardson.
Panellists participating in the discussions were Patsy Richardson of the St Maarten Police Force (KPSM), domestic violence advocate Ramona Riley, mental health professional Dr. Nolan Nanthon, clinical trauma specialist Dr. Ann Marlin-Evans and community representative Hubert Pantophlet.
Brug said, “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.”
The film Choke Hold was produced by Caribcine Productions and Partners, under the direction of producer Joel Ayuk. Prince Herbert Martina served as moderator, and trauma support was provided by Simply Ann.
The Ministry thanked Breaking the Chokehold Initiative, the panellists and the community members who attended the screenings, discussions and workshop, noting that their involvement strengthens the national response to domestic violence and supports long-term efforts to eliminate it.
