Virgin Islands Day replaced Territory Day and was first celebrated in July 2021.
That year, businesses and individuals found ways to observe the new celebration of VI culture, but the onset of the Covid-19 pandemic prevented large-scale festivities from taking place. Celebrations were relatively quiet again last year.
This week, that changed. Community members joined in a full day of celebration on July 3 at Long Bay Beach on Beef Island. Activities included a fishing competition, celebratory worship services, music and cultural games.
Emcee and Pastor Norma Chalwell exuberantly welcomed community members that morning.
“I hope you brought your dancing shoes, because we’re gonna dance,” she said. “We’re gonna shout. We’re going to have a good time together as we celebrate this Virgin Islands Day.”
Speakers recounted the territory’s history of political advancement and prompted attendees to reflect on VI heritage. Sermons also centred on requests for guidance as the territory decides its political future.
Performers including Zion Sounds lent their musical talents, sharing stories and singing about the natural beauty of the VI’s rolling hills and sparkling waves. The BVI Heritage Dancers also demonstrated the classic “heel and toe” style of dance.
The celebration explored many other facets of VI culture as well, including fishing. Junior Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries Dr. Karl Dawson said he was glad to see support shown for the fishing sector given its key role in the territory’s economy and culture.
VI identity
Premier Dr. Natalio “Sowande” Wheatley, who was out of the territory at a Caribbean Community meeting, shared in a statement his belief that promoting a cultural identity is more important than ever.
“We have been shaped by unique circumstances across hundreds of years and spanning generations, each incident and influence moulding us — our values, our beliefs, our way of life, our food, our music, our dances, all of our heritage and culture — into a unique identity,” he said. “Our identity and our way of life may have similarities to that of persons from other places, but when all the elements are brought together as a whole [they produce] something that is not replicated anywhere else.”
He also stressed the importance of not allowing the VI’s special traits to fade in an increasingly global world.
“Some of these interactions and influences can be positive, and some can be detrimental to the survival of our identity and everything that goes with it,” he added.