The Minister made the statement during the Sixth Sitting of the Fourth Session of the Fourth House of Assembly of the Virgin Islands on Thursday, July 21, 2022.

She reminded this is the first time since the COVID-19 pandemic that people will get a chance to celebrate in person.

“Madam Speaker, this is the first time since 2019, due to COVID-19, that we will physically come together to celebrate this historical milestone as we reflect on the goals, aspirations, and vision of our fore-parents to be a free people.”

Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival 2022 is being celebrated under the theme “Celebrating Freedom for me and you, BVI Festival 2022.

Hon de Castro said the Virgin Islands Festival and Fairs Committee Chairman Dirk L. Walters and the rest of the team are doing their part to ensure the success of the festivities but the support of the community is paramount.

Never forget sacrifices of VI foreparents - Hon de Castro

“I encourage the entire community to join in the celebration, and support all the events planned in line with the theme of celebrating our freedom as a people,” she added.

Hon deCastro reminded that to VI’s fore-parents, emancipation meant they were free to make their own decisions regarding their destiny and that of their children.

“Despite being free, they understood the value of working hard to ensure and secure their livelihood and future. This was not without hindrance and grave challenges, but they persevered,” she added.

Hon de Castro called for the VI to never forget the sacrifices and the efforts of those who have gone before the people for the VI.

“This is our legacy. We are descendants of a people who overcame all odds. Resilience is in our DNA,” while urging persons to recommit themselves to the vision of VI’s fore-parents.

Gospel Fest is tonight!

Meanwhile, the first official event of the Bernard 'Yampie' Nibbs Festiville is this evening, July 27, 2022, at Festival Grounds in Road Town.

Gospel Fest, featuring international artiste Sherwin Gardner, is from 7:30pm.

Other artistes include Dwight Hutchinson and Oneyke, alongside High Frequency Band.

There is no entry fee for Gospel Fest.

Scenes from the August Monday Parade in Road Town, Tortola, on August 5, 2019.

The first official event of the Bernard 'Yampie' Nibbs Festiville is this evening, July 27, 2022, at Festival Grounds in Road Town. Gospel Fest, featuring international artiste Sherwin Gardner, is from 7:30pm.