Former Senator Alicia "Chucky" Hansen. Photo Credit: V.I. CONSORTIUM
December 6th will soon be observed as Alicia “Chucky” Hansen Day in honor of the local politician held in high esteem by a large swath of the Virgin Islands public.
Legislation to establish the day of observance for the now-deceased legislator was introduced by Senator Javan James during a legislative session on Wednesday. Bill 35-0416 will honor and commend Alicia “Chucky” Hansen posthumously for her “unmatched and immeasurable service and dedication to the people of the Virgin Islands, the Caribbean and the United States”. The bill also considers her tenure as the “longest-serving senator from the district of St. Croix and the highest vote-getter in the territory’s history.”
Former Senator Hansen died on October 2nd, 2023 at the age of 70. Described as an emblematic figure in the territory, Ms. Hansen served for eleven terms.
On Wednesday, multiple members of the 35th Legislature rose in support of Bill 35-0416. “Chucky was my friend,” said Senator Alma Francis Heyliger. “She spoke her mind, she defended the people of this territory, and she was duly rewarded by the people for it.” Senator Dwayne DeGraff referred to her as a “cornerstone” in his legislative career. “[She] taught me all the little tricks of the trade,” he said.
“What a giant of a lady,” Senator Carla Joseph declared. “She was that type of human being and lady who respected people and was always fighting for the little man,” she added, commending Sen. James for special ordering the measure to the legislative floor. For his part, the bill's sponsor disclosed that “from the time I placed my name on the ballot, she was one individual I could call at any given time and ask for advice.”
“Chucky has really set the high mark in terms of politicians,” remarked Senator Novelle Francis, president of the Senate. He too, lauded Ms. Hansen’s accomplishment as the “most prolific vote-getter.”
With unanimous support for Bill 35-0416 by the Legislation, the measure is expected to soon receive the rubber stamp from Governor Albert Bryan Jr., who received Ms. Hansen’s backing for governor in the 2018 election.
