The people of the Virgin Islands are being urged to reflect on the legacies of their ancestors and national heroes as the Territory prepares to observe Heroes and Foreparents Day.

Premier Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley said the day is dedicated to recognising the extraordinary contributions of the Territory’s national heroes and foreparents, whose resilience, courage, and dedication have shaped the Virgin Islands’ progress and development.

Premier Wheatley said, “Our foreparents, with their hard work and ingenuity, transformed the rocky land and tumultuous seas into a foundation for our livelihoods... proving that through determination, we can overcome any challenge. For this, we owe them an immense debt of gratitude.”

National Heroes and Foreparents Day will be observed on Monday October 21 and will highlight the legacy of the Territory’s ten national heroes namely, Pereen Georges, Shelly Martin, Augustus McCleverty, Obadiah Dawson, Henry Garnet, Isaac Glanville Fonseca, Carlton deCastro, Theodolph Faulkner, H. Lavity Stoutt and Noel Lloyd, each of whom played a pivotal role in advocating for freedom, justice, and the advancement of the Virgin Islands.

Premier Wheatley said their stories of triumph and perseverance serve as an inspiration to all Virgin Islanders today.

 “In honouring these heroes, the Government of the Virgin Islands has developed initiatives to preserve their legacies, including the completion of official portraits and detailed biographies,” he said, adding, “These materials will be shared with primary, secondary, and tertiary institutions across the Territory and integrated into lesson plans, ensuring future generations understand and appreciate the contributions of these distinguished Virgin Islanders.”

The Premier is also encouraging residents to connect with the elders in their communities, share a meal, lend a hand, or simply sit and listen to their stories.

The Government of the Virgin Islands is dedicated to the sustainable development of the Territory by preserving its cultural heritage through recognising the contributions of national heroes and advancing nation-building initiatives towards ensuring a prosperous future for all Virgin Islanders.