Premier urges peace for Emancipation Festival

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley used the official opening of the 72nd Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival to call for peace, unity and responsible celebrations, urging residents to reject violence as the territory marks one of its most significant cultural observances.

Addressing the opening ceremony for the Lavida Cottoy Festival Village on Monday evening, Dr Wheatley said this year’s theme, ‘Culture Rising, Hearts Aligned, VI Festival One of a Kind’, reflected the values that continue to unite the Virgin Islands.

“This theme speaks to who we are as Virgin Islanders, rooted in heritage, strengthened by community, and committed to celebrating the culture that binds us together,” Premier Wheatley stated.

The Premier paid tribute to Festival Village honouree Lavida Cottoy for decades of service to the territory’s cultural development, highlighting her work with the Prince and Princess Committee and more than two decades leading the Calypso Committee. He also congratulated Parade Marshal Roberto ‘Tico’ Harrigan for his role in preserving Virgin Islands culture and mentoring young people.

Dr Wheatley linked this year’s festival to the territory’s recent commemoration of the 250th anniversary of freedom at Long Look, where the Virgin Islands honoured the self-emancipation of 25 Africans in 1776.

He said the anniversary served as a reminder that freedom was won through sacrifice and resilience, not freely given. The territory observed the milestone through a series of commemorative events in June before the start of this year’s Emancipation Festival.

Reflecting on the festival’s significance, Premier Wheatley urged residents not to lose sight of its historical purpose.

“I am very passionate about the fact that our Emancipation Festival must highlight emancipation. We must focus on the reason for these celebrations,” Dr Wheatley stated.

As festivities get underway, Dr Wheatley appealed for community support by encouraging residents to back local vendors, performers and cultural activities throughout the festival season.

The Premier added a direct appeal for an end to violence, echoing an earlier plea from Festival Village honouree Cottoy, who had urged patrons to “leave the weapons at home.”

“I endorse what Lavida said. Let’s not have any violence in our emancipation festival or at all. Let us live a life of love, unity, and peace,” Dr Wheatley stated.

He added: “As we celebrate, let us do so responsibly. Look out for one another, prioritise safety, keep our community strong, and above all, let us enjoy this festival season with joy, gratitude, and unity.”