U.S. Virgin Islands Sen. Myron D. Jackson, chairman of the 31st Legislature’s Committee on Culture, Historic Preservation, Youth & Recreation, encourages all to participate in acknowledging the accomplishments of the Territory and its people during the celebration of Virgin Islands History Month.
This year marks the tenth year since the official inception of this celebration. In 2005, legislation proposed by Senate President Shawn-Michael Malone was signed into law by Gov. Charles W. Turnbull with ACT 6802 designating March as Virgin Islands History Month. The purpose is “to highlight the history, culture, and achievements of the people of the Virgin Islands, including the artifacts, goods, ideas, beliefs, customs, traditions, values, music, art, folklore, dance, cuisine, and technical processes.”
2013 marked notable accomplishments for the people of the Virgin Islands. These successes will also be recorded in the annals of Virgin Islands History. Of note were the masterful riding skills demonstrated by Mr. Victor Lebron and Mr. Kevin Krigger at the Kentucky Derby. Additionally, the boxing exploits of Julius and John Jackson are now being recorded in the pages of time, and will also serve as a testimony of the greatness that resides within our people.
“The month of March affords us the ability to draw attention to those Virgin Islanders who have performed noteworthy acts that had a positive influence on the people of the Virgin Islands, and those individuals have enhanced our image on the world stage, as well as inspired our people to strive to reach their own personal greatness,” Sen. Jackson said.
Virgin Islands History Month shares the Month of March with Women’s History Month. Weaving the stories of Women’s Lives is the theme of this year’s national Women’s History celebration. This message coincides well with the overall theme of the respect for the women in the Virgin Islands. On March 31, the Virgin Islands marks the 98th anniversary of the sale and transfer of the territory from Danish to American rule.
For more information, call 340-693-3519.
