Sen. Will Parkinson will hold a community town hall on Guam’s political status in Malesso’ on Wednesday, Oct. 8, from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at the Malesso’ Senior Citizens Center. The event marks the third in a series of islandwide forums, following earlier sessions in Yigo and Mongmong-Toto-Maite, aimed at engaging residents across the island on Guam’s political future.
Parkinson said the meetings are especially timely as the geopolitical landscape in the Western Pacific evolves. “The geopolitical environment in the Western Pacific is shifting rapidly, and Guam sits at the intersection of defense, diplomacy, and democracy,” he said, referencing last month’s Guam Defense Forum that examined the island’s strategic role amid rising tensions with China.
The town halls are rooted in Parkinson’s Legislative Resolution No. 29-38 (COR), which calls for a comprehensive study of statehood and enhanced autonomy options. The resolution stresses that any change in political status must protect constitutional rights, ensure political equality, and uphold Guam’s cultural heritage. Parkinson emphasized the importance of grounding the discussion in public participation rather than partisan or outside influences.
“This issue is not about Democrats or Republicans, it’s about educating our people and ensuring every resident of Guam understands what’s at stake for our island’s future,” Parkinson said. The senator plans to continue the islandwide series in other villages to broaden community input on the issue.