St. Croix Legislative Building Photo Credit: VI CONSORTIUM
Senate President Donna Frett-Gregory announced Thursday the closure of the Legislature on Friday in recognition of Emancipation Day. Other government operations will remain open Friday, according to Gov't House.
Ms. Frett-Gregory said Emancipation Day is an important day in the history of the Virgin Islands and its importance must be revered. Emancipation Day, which commemorates the activities of 1848 wherein enslaved Africans organized to end the oppressive system of slavery, is celebrated on July 3, which falls on a Saturday this year.
“It is my privilege to extend administrative leave to the employees of the Legislature of the Virgin Islands on Friday, July 2, 2021,” said Ms. Frett-Gregory. “Our history shows that while July 3, 1848 the slaves under Danish rule were set free, the events started on July 2, 1848, when a call went out for enslaved Africans to go to Fort Frederick, in the town of Frederiksted.”
Virgin Islands Freedom Week runs from June 26th to July 3rd of each year.
"July 3rd epitomizes what can occur if like minds organize and work together for the better of all," stated the Legislature's release. "With limited means, but a strong spirit, will and conviction, our ancestors succeeded in freeing all unfree persons in the Danish West Indies from the bonds of slavery. Frett-Gregory urges all Virgin Islanders to reflect on emancipation and what it means to us today as we move towards improving the quality of life for all Virgin Islanders."
The Legislature of the Virgin Islands will resume normal operations on Tuesday, July 6.
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