Food Fair on St. Croix during the 2017 Crucian Christmas Festival. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM
Governor Albert Bryan on Monday officially declared several key observances for December and announced administrative leave for the holiday season in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Recognizing the importance of awareness on global health issues, Mr. Bryan has proclaimed December 1 as World Aids Day across the Territory. This day serves as a reminder to enhance awareness and understanding for those affected by HIV/AIDS in the community.
Governor Bryan has also designated December 10, 2023, as Human Rights and Relations Day. He urged all residents to revisit the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and to reaffirm their dedication to its foundational principles of universality, equality, and non-discrimination. Furthermore, the week of December 10-17, 2023, is proclaimed as Human Rights and Relations Week.
To emphasize the critical role of technology and digital proficiency in today's society, Governor Bryan has also declared December 4-10 as Computer Science Education Week in the Territory. This week aims to raise public awareness about the paramount importance of digital literacy education.
The governor is granting administrative leave to non-essential government employees according to the following dates:
- Christmas Day: Monday, December 25
- Christmas Second Day: Tuesday, December 26
- New Year’s Day: Monday, January 1
- Crucian Christmas Festival Children’s Parade: Friday, January 5
Additionally, non-essential employees on St. Croix are granted administrative leave to enjoy the Crucian Christmas Festival Food, Arts and Crafts Fair. Leave is set for 1 p.m. until 5 p.m. on Wednesday, January 3, and from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Thursday, January 4.
