BVI Christian Council objects to UberSoca Cruise event
The UberSoca Punk Rock J'ouvert Cruise, which the Government of the Virgin Islands, through the Ministry of Tourism, Culture and Sustainable Development, has sponsored, sparked concerns across the territory following the decisions that the government has taken to facilitate the staging of this event.
The BVICC highlighted that the event involves the closure of Main Street, live revelry in the streets of Road Town, performances behind the Administration Complex, promotion of regional Soca artists, a budget allocation of $500,000, impacts on the public service—including a half-day work schedule, decreased productivity, and additional financial costs.
Reasons for objections
In a statement dated November 17, 2025, the council highlighted that these measures will therefore have potential effects on the education system, as well as the healthcare resources of the territory in the event of a mass casualty.
The Council also stated that its objections to the street Soca party revolve around several key issues, such as
- Soca music events typically involve amplified music and attract large crowds, particularly among youth.
- National events inevitably increase traffic flow and parking congestion, while local roads are not designed to handle such an influx of vehicles, which could pose safety risks and hinder access for residents and emergency services.
- The scale and nature of a "national party" of this kind, held during the day, are inconsistent with the character of the community and threaten the peaceful environment residents expect.
- Large gatherings can sometimes lead to an uptick in criminal activity, increased anti-social behaviour—including littering and public intoxication—and other disturbances.
Consider 'negative impacts'
The BVI Christian Council further added that, "While it may be too late to change the current course of action, we urge the Premier to consider the significant negative impacts these events will have locally and on the well-being of our residents, particularly our young people. We value cultural events; however, this event cannot be classified as cultural or compatible with the Christian beliefs that our Territory strives to protect."
The BVICC also said, "We see ourselves as the 'Watchdog of our Nation and the Conscience of our Community,' and we remain fully committed to being proactive, transparent, united, and vocal regarding issues, actions, or behaviours that could compromise our core principles. Let us be remembered as a people who stood firm in safeguarding our moral values, leaving a legacy of integrity for future generations."
The BVI Christian Council also stated it had expressed its objections to the Vybz Kartel Concert held in March 2025.
The organisation emphasised its commitment to providing a strong and consistent voice on matters that could negatively impact the well-being of the territory, as well as to acknowledge positive initiatives when appropriate; however, it raised concerns about whether shutting down the country for such events should be seen as the new normal.
Attempts were made to reach the Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism, Honourable Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), for a comment on the matter.
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38 Responses to “BVI Christian Council objects to UberSoca Cruise event”
I cannot believe some of the comments under this story attacking the Christian Council. It is not for the BVICC to get involved in political or administrative drama. It is their right to comment where they consider a public activity detrimental to public morals.
Some of the negative commentators need to take a close look at their lives.
They object to nothing else the Government of the VI is doing just this?
Wow.
"We see ourselves as the 'Watchdog of our Nation and the Conscience of our Community,"
Well you can stop seeing yourselves as that if this is the only thing you notice wrong in our community.
Gun crime? Mis use of Gov funds? Drug dealing Premiers? Minimum Wage? HOA Salaary Rises? Take your pick.....
Watchdogs of nothing. Least of all consistent voice on Christian values.
Church in BVI is just a memory of the good old days because some live to see the day when night clubs right beside the church that could not have happened back then
Progress is a good however if such progress is not regulated then all manner of things will happen
Ask yourself if any member that participating in one the sins fit too judge ANYBODY or say ANYTHING.
We need to differentiate between the lewd and the nude.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UZq3cVgU5AI
The council seemingly only writes to publish in the media when there are matters pertaining to entertainment events or activities. Do more! Find positive and encouraging news to educate, share and highlight to the public as it relates to Christianity. Redefine your purpose, find your balance, inspire our community!
The Council had nothing to go against this with and put out this mediocre communication.
Do you go against that church when they bring in FALSE PROPHETS?