2019 US Virgin Islands Code
Title 1 - General Provisions
Chapter 11 - Holidays
§ 197a. Virgin Islands Freedom Week
- The dates of June 26 through July 3 of each year shall be observed as “Freedom Week” in the Virgin Islands to commemorate the emancipation of the enslaved persons in the Danish West Indies, now the Virgin Islands of the United States, and any other freedom struggles of oppressed people that are ideologically consistent therewith. Public ceremonies and programs recognizing and honoring Virgin Islands heroes shall be held throughout the Territory and on WTJX channel 12, the Public Television Station in the Virgin Islands.
(a) At least fifteen (15) days prior to “Freedom Week”, the Governor shall issue a proclamation calling upon all residents to join in appropriate ceremonies to reflect upon our ancestors’ struggles.
(b) The Governor shall appoint a committee each year to coordinate with Virgin Islands-based organizations and other interested community groups and develop appropriate plans, programs, marketing initiatives and ceremonies for the commemoration, memorialization and celebration of Virgin Islands Freedom Week throughout the Virgin Islands and our Caribbean sister/brother islands.
(c) The Legislature on Emancipation Day in alliance with Virgin Islands-based governmental/nongovernmental organizations shall hold appropriate and official ceremonies on St. Croix, St. John and St. Thomas highlighting the historical narratives of freedom, liberation, self-determination and emancipation of the people, history, and culture of the Virgin Islands.
(d) The Commissioner of Education shall be responsible for organizing and publicizing events throughout public schools to celebrate, acknowledge and commemorate history, culture, heroes, heroines, and more for Virgin Islands Freedom Week.
(e) The Commissioner of Tourism shall be responsible for organizing and publicizing events throughout the Virgin Islands and abroad to commemorate, celebrate, acknowledge and promote Virgin Islands Freedom Week.
