Ms Laurel Freeman, the Director for Family, Children, and Support Services at the Ministry of Health and Social Development, has questioned whether protective tools are readily available for individuals who wish to engage in sexual activities above the legal age of consent. Photo: Facebook

The Ministry of Health and Social Development, together with UNITE BVI, have partnered to present Emergency Party Kits during the Emancipation Festival. Photo: Facebook/Government of the Virgin Islands

Ms Freeman articulated these concerns during an interview on the health-focused program ‘Health Bytes’, which was broadcast live on Facebook on Friday, July 25, 2025. 

The conversation was aired ahead of the festivities for the 71st Emancipation Festival, which was officially opened on Friday. 

Citing data from recent health reports, she indicated that the incidence of Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV) and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs) has risen alarmingly in the Virgin Islands (VI), with over 200 new cases reported in the past five years alone.

In light of these statistics, Freeman posed critical questions about the accessibility of condoms, particularly during the festive season when social engagements typically surge.

She asked, "Do young adults over the age of 16 know where they can obtain condoms? Are these protective tools readily available for those who may choose to engage in sexual activity?" 

Ms Freeman stressed the importance of confronting these issues rather than ignoring them, insisting that the community must not "bury our heads in the sand."

She emphasised that it is crucial to provide individuals with the resources necessary to make informed and responsible decisions regarding their sexual health. 

Parents should take an active role

Additionally, Ms Freeman called on parents to take an active role in addressing sexual health topics with their children—especially those under the age of consent, which is established at 16 in the Virgin Islands. 

She stated that these critical discussions should revolve around the emotional and psychological implications of early sexual encounters. 

"We need to ask ourselves, do young people have the emotional maturity to handle the complexities that come with being sexually active?" she challenged, underscoring the necessity of equipping children with the knowledge and understanding to navigate these significant life experiences responsibly.

Emergency Party Kits

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Health and Social Development, together with UNITE BVI, have partnered to present Emergency Party Kits. 

These kits include various sexual protective items and will be available at the Police Booth in the Festival Village. 

“Whether planned or spontaneous, stay safe and prepared! Ask for the kit, scan the code and fill out a quick survey,” the social media post promoting these emergency kits said.