Premier joining youth organised 'Black Lives Matter' march
Urging Virgin Islanders to not be afraid of speaking out against racism, Virgin Islands (VI) Premier and Minister of Finance, Hon Andrew A. Fahie (R1) says he will be joining a local youth organised 'Black Lives Matter' march scheduled for Saturday, June 20, 2020, starting 2:30pm at the Noel Lloyd Positive Movement Park.
Speaking at the Tenth Sitting of the Second Session of the Fourth House of Assembly (HoA) tonight June 19, 2020, Premier Fahie said, "It is about showing that the Virgin Islands is in solidarity with the rest of the world against racial injustice of all kind."
The Premier noted that some of the youth organisers met with the Members of the House and they explained what the march is about, "they will be the ones to lead this Territory tomorrow, and I am pleased to join them as we together as a Territory take a stance for justice and peace because ‘Black Lives Matter’."
Building a future without racism
In announcing his participation, Hon Fahie also warned Virgin Islanders and others living in the territory to not be afraid to speak out about the issue of racism.
"Let us not get so worked up by events that take place abroad, and shun from speaking up, speaking out, and confronting our own issues. Now is the time when we must face our goliaths head-on."
As part of the proceedings, the Premier said that Together, those present will be sending a strong message to the world that systemic and undercover racism of any kind must no longer stand while commending youngs people for organising the initiative.
He said the territory belongs to the youths, as such, the future will depend on positive actions made now.
Social distancing guidelines in place
Hon Fahie also encouraged all to come out and support the march but reminded that COVID-19 social distancing guidelines will remain in effect so persons must march six feet apart from each other and wears their face masks.
"Let each step be a meaningful step; let each step represent and rekindle the hope of our ancestors. Let each step represent peace and unity. And, most of all let each step signal that ‘Black Lives Matter’," the Premier said.
The march will begin at 2:30 pm Saturday at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park in Road Town and ending at Queen Elizabeth II Park.
The Premier noted that some of the youth organisers met with the Members of the House and they explained what the march is about, "they will be the ones to lead this Territory tomorrow, and I am pleased to join them as we together as a Territory take a stance for justice and peace because ‘Black Lives Matter’."
Building a future without racism
In announcing his participation, Hon Fahie also warned Virgin Islanders and others living in the territory to not be afraid to speak out about the issue of racism.
"Let us not get so worked up by events that take place abroad, and shun from speaking up, speaking out, and confronting our own issues. Now is the time when we must face our goliaths head-on."
As part of the proceedings, the Premier said that Together, those present will be sending a strong message to the world that systemic and undercover racism of any kind must no longer stand while commending youngs people for organising the initiative.
He said the territory belongs to the youths, as such, the future will depend on positive actions made now.
Social distancing guidelines in place
Hon Fahie also encouraged all to come out and support the march but reminded that COVID-19 social distancing guidelines will remain in effect so persons must march six feet apart from each other and wears their face masks.
"Let each step be a meaningful step; let each step represent and rekindle the hope of our ancestors. Let each step represent peace and unity. And, most of all let each step signal that ‘Black Lives Matter’," the Premier said.
The march will begin at 2:30 pm Saturday at Noel Lloyd Positive Action Movement Park in Road Town and ending at Queen Elizabeth II Park.
