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'Cater to all travellers, including gays & lesbians'- Julio S. Henry

Outspoken taxi operator Mr Julio S. Henry aka 'Sam' is advocating for the territory to cater to all travellers, inclusive of lesbians and gays. Photo: estestherapy.com
Mr Julio S. Henry aka 'Sam' says the Virgin Islands has to be mindful it is not alienating any one as its seeks to attract visitors to the territory. Photo: Facebook
Mr Julio S. Henry aka 'Sam' says the Virgin Islands has to be mindful it is not alienating any one as its seeks to attract visitors to the territory. Photo: Facebook
ROAD TOWN, Tortola, VI- Outspoken taxi operator Mr Julio S. Henry aka 'Sam' is advocating for the territory to cater to all travellers, inclusive of lesbians and gays.

“One of the biggest things that’s happening right now in travel is the gay and lesbian travel,” he declared during the Chamber Talk with BVICCHA’s Chair Mrs Shaina M. Smith-Archer, via Zoom and shared on social media on Wednesday, October 13, 2021.

“[There are] many destinations that would try to figure out how to gain more of that because that is a lot of spending power that we are not really focusing on. So we have to be broad, we have to be conscious of who would come and we have to cater to all of them. So we have to be mindful not to alienate any segment of the travelling public.”

Mr Henry said there are persons in the territory who identify as gays and lesbians “who want to participate in what we have here to offer, but they don’t know if that would be welcomed.”

I agree!- Sharon P. Flax-Brutus

Ex-Director of the BVI Tourist Board and businesswoman Mrs Sharon P. Flax-Brutus said she agreed with Henry’s point and added her voice in support, saying that the topic is one that is always shied away from.

“I think sometimes when I say it, it is misinterpreted. Luxury is not necessarily about the dollar; luxury is the way that an experience makes a person feel, and I think that is what we really need to try to do. And I agree with you, the LGBTQ market we sort of try to shy around it, but they go visit our destination, and I like to say we love all guests.”

Flax-Brutus said she was also in agreement that these persons possess “very good” spending/buying power, and they are environmentally conscious as well.

57 Responses to “'Cater to all travellers, including gays & lesbians'- Julio S. Henry”

  • Truth . (14/10/2021, 14:36) Like (14) Dislike (22) Reply
    Just watch for the comments. Being a gay person who used to hide my feelings by being very vocally anti gay on the basis that I felt that would protect me from suspicion, i suspect we may see many anti gay comments from many people still hiding their gay persona . All people are human and being gay is not a choice but a result of being born that way . Religion cannot change you . Family and friends that support you is very important to overcome the hatred and bigotry from ignorant people.
    • hmmm (14/10/2021, 16:10) Like (39) Dislike (13) Reply
      I do not have a proboem with gays. My probelm is the some of them behave. Not calling any names but when you see some of them out their bahvior is that worst than a female. My question is why do they have to bahave like that. Cant they be cool and chill? Why do you have to climb on tables and chairs gyrating like a female?? Why???
      • robocop (15/10/2021, 08:07) Like (8) Dislike (5) Reply
        Excellent generalising there. Can be used for all communities for example, I do not have a problem with BVIslanders, my problem is the way some of them behave. Some of their behaviour is criminal, riding round on scooters or driving recklessly like fools ignoring the police, dealing drugs and being lazy, knocking up their baby mommas and not caring for the kids. Why do they have to behave like that? why??

        This is the danger of generalising a whole community based on a few extreme individuals.
      • Gay traveller (16/10/2021, 19:52) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        Because we just can’t help ourselves. Being born gay just means we have to gyrate like women all the time. Sometimes I find myself doing it in the supermarket or even at work…

        Thankfully there are many people who are more educated and less concerned with the personal business of other people to care where they go on holiday. Let’s not forget the disposable income that our community would love to spend in the BVI is only beneficial to you and your family. But if you don’t want it, there are plenty of places where we can happily spend our $$$. The choice is really yours.
    • Real (14/10/2021, 17:42) Like (47) Dislike (15) Reply
      A baby is not born gay never its always a choice so cut that crap short
      • @Real (14/10/2021, 18:20) Like (14) Dislike (13) Reply
        A baby grows up and develops feelings of attraction by themself.
        A baby is born atheist and is then hoodwinked into believing in one god or another
    • what (14/10/2021, 18:26) Like (18) Dislike (10) Reply
      @ Truth,
      You need deliverance. The devil is fooling you off you did not born that way you choose to listen to him and become GAY.
    • ### (14/10/2021, 19:56) Like (5) Dislike (2) Reply
      True religion changes people IF and only if the person truthfully WANTS to change. God does not force anyone to worship him in truth. Humans have to make that choice for themselves. It is called free will.
    • @Truth . (15/10/2021, 08:07) Like (7) Dislike (3) Reply
      You probably felt you were born that way and in some way that has truth but not biologically…spiritually maybe…homosexuality is a spiritual condition and YES Jesus can deliver you from that spirit. Yes I do believe that a gay person should NOT be ostracized by his or her community or family. But that doesn’t mean we should embrace the ‘lifestyle’…love the person…not their lifestyle. Also why do gay persons accept being defined by their sexuality?? You are a person/human being FIRST. I know you genuinely feel you were born this way and cannot ‘unchange’ but I tell you the Truth…there is Hope in the Name of JESUS.
      • @ @Truth . (15/10/2021, 16:13) Like (2) Dislike (1) Reply
        I totally agree with your statement. I have the gift of spiritual discernment, and Jesus allowed me to see that dark spirit on someone. It is truly a demonic attack.
    • hey (15/10/2021, 15:36) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Encouraging homosexuality here will leave egg on your face.
    • Jacko (15/10/2021, 15:39) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      My mother made my brother a homosexual
      She ran out of wool so didn’t make one for me.
    • @Truth . (15/10/2021, 16:07) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
      Ok, so here is my comment. We do not need spending power in this ways. Many of us are God fearing people, and we choose not to worship money or the status quo of some societies. God does not agree with male/male, female/female, animal/human, or any sexual relationship outside of marriage. The bible was not created to 'cater' to mankind, mankind was created to 'cater' to Jesus Christ the Lord of ALL! One day, dead or alive we will All realize this truth.
  • money (14/10/2021, 14:58) Like (15) Dislike (4) Reply
    once is money some will stand for it
  • YES!!! (14/10/2021, 15:20) Like (28) Dislike (7) Reply
    Sounds gay - I’m in! It’s just a shame that there are too many bigots amongst our population.
  • you know (14/10/2021, 16:06) Like (10) Dislike (7) Reply
    I agree with Henry 100%. They will bring big money to the tourist industry.
  • Welcome to the BVI. (14/10/2021, 16:17) Like (15) Dislike (6) Reply
    Once they keep their belief and behaviour between their privacy of their 4 Walls. We good.
    • @Welcome to the BVI (14/10/2021, 16:57) Like (15) Dislike (9) Reply
      Why should we keep our beliefs behind closed doors? Why can’t I hold my partner’s hand in public if you can hold that of yours? I will not keep my love for my girlfriend locked away. We gay folk aren’t out here trying to convert you, we’re just being ourselves and loving our partners.
  • Lucifer (14/10/2021, 16:19) Like (15) Dislike (8) Reply
    It is a shame that it takes the lure of money for such progressive thinking but it would be a positive step for the territory in being more open to the world. Any of the bible brigade that want to criticise should consider the adultery that is overlooked and almost glorified on these islands before they start throwing stones at the gay community
    • Hmmmm (14/10/2021, 19:59) Like (8) Dislike (3) Reply
      The same wicked adulterers wanting to be preaching and teaching gay people the gospel …Lollllllll
    • Comment (15/10/2021, 17:11) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      Only Lucifer and his evil companions would call this behavior progressive thinking. Progressing the kingdom of Darkness. You all really should repent before it’s too late... life is very short.
  • SHAME (14/10/2021, 16:26) Like (20) Dislike (18) Reply
    I remember when we were a God fearing people now we are ok with homosexuality because of money and you think God is ok with that a modern day Sidon and gomaro
    • @Shame (14/10/2021, 19:21) Like (7) Dislike (3) Reply
      Paleaze, you need to get out of your Stone Age way of thinking. Live and let live. There are so many gay people living in the BVI afraid to come out of the closet but is afraid of people like you. What I need you to do SHAME BEFORE YOU PASS JUDGEMENT ON OTHERS AND THROW YOUR WORDS, LOOK AROUND AT YOUR FAMILY AND FIND THE GAY ONE. EVERY FAMILY HAVE A GAY FAMILY MEMBER.
    • @ SHAME (14/10/2021, 19:44) Like (12) Dislike (1) Reply
      god fearing my foot. u religious ppl are the worst hypocrits.
      • yes sa (15/10/2021, 12:01) Like (4) Dislike (1) Reply
        I am with you 100%

        these so-called god-fearing people. hmm lord have mercy they up and down this island with people man, husband, wife, and girlfriend without shame!

        then go to church on Sunday praising GOD the highest. hypocrisy

        Gays, you live your life, forget about the rest let them talk... GOD is the only one who can judge your lifestyle.

        ye without sin cast the first stone!

        TALK THAT
      • @ @SHAME (15/10/2021, 20:48) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        So what would you say about Jesus? How religious was He? Was He a hypocrite too? Stop shifting guilt. The point is, this behavior is evil.
    • @Shame (14/10/2021, 22:49) Like (6) Dislike (2) Reply
      Most of you God fearing church folks is the worst. I don’t go to church but I am more religious then most of you hypocrites are. You all up in church every Sunday hollering, jumping up and down with your hands in the air calling on God and as soon as you step out the church you allow satan to jab you with his pitch fork.
      • @ @SHAME (16/10/2021, 10:29) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
        What you and many church folks fail to realize is that Christianity is a ‘Relationship with Jesus’ not a religious experience. If Jesus is your Lord and Savior you will be happy to do His will. ‘Like preach against such sins’ and all other sins as well. If God says to pray for persons with spiritual strongholds like those with the sprit of lust... then that is what we must do. This is way many church folks will share the same eternal punishment as the world... because they believe that visiting a building once a week and singing a few songs to Jesus will give them a free pass to heaven... Many church folks are in hell right now wishing that they truly had connected intimately with Jesus on earth.
    • Rofl (15/10/2021, 15:29) Like (1) Dislike (0) Reply
      you sound gay and in the closet
  • okay (14/10/2021, 17:08) Like (15) Dislike (5) Reply
    I have seen gay couples here, they go out etc and people see it they may not like it but they don’t get beaten up for being gay… Now what do you want from the public? Do you want gay clubs? Do you want gay marriage to be legalised ? No one is bothering them here and many of them are here...The issue to me is more of the DLs because they are ruining peoples lives when they could be happy with who they truly want. No one is stopping anyone from living in their truth and as tourist who bothers them really?

    Let’s be mindful that everyone is entitled to their opinion and preference.. Just as with everything else, you will not get everyone to agree with a certain lifestyle or way… Money or not.

    If one wants to embrace and come up with new initiatives to attract the lgbtq community thats good for them.. Make your money how you want to.
    • @okay (15/10/2021, 08:17) Like (2) Dislike (0) Reply
      News flash … there is a case right in the court right now trying to legalize gay marriage in the bvi… a lesbian couple both born in the bvi… since February and everything hush hush…nothing from the media… nothing from the pulpit…guess some people want it to go through secretly
  • no sense (14/10/2021, 17:12) Like (13) Dislike (3) Reply
    When did the bvi ever question a visitor's sexual orientation? Makes no sense.
  • Take my money (14/10/2021, 17:23) Like (4) Dislike (2) Reply
    Yes take yo money and give no rights! Greed!
  • Ghost (14/10/2021, 17:40) Like (10) Dislike (6) Reply
    All you people care is about money sell your soul y’all oeople do anything for money y’all need to pray
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  • Well Sah (14/10/2021, 18:07) Like (6) Dislike (12) Reply
    Shame on you Mr. Henry. We don't want Tortola to come like Sodom and Gomorrah. Shame on you.
    • RM (15/10/2021, 14:18) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
      We already have the strippers, drugs and adultery so if you talking about sodom and gomorrah, it already here
  • The agenda (14/10/2021, 18:22) Like (8) Dislike (12) Reply
    This is all part of the fallen angel agenda to control creation. Being gay cancels "be fruitful and multiply" it also creates room for the robots it's all a part of the New World Order. LGBTQ is an induced state of mind that is being influenced on the population especially on children. We are presently paying the price and it will continually get higher and higher. Continue to sell your soul for a piece of gold.
  • Waldo (14/10/2021, 18:32) Like (7) Dislike (2) Reply
    There was a group called The Gay Armada of more than 100 persons that would get together and charter some 25 boats from The Moorings for a week on a yearly basis and bring tons of money into the BVI....duh...wake up BVIslanders...
  • Arrival gauntlet (14/10/2021, 19:00) Like (1) Dislike (3) Reply
    Welcoming the LGBTQ community into the BVI rests on the entry policies and protocols of the Health, Immigration and Customs Departments. If united the BVI succeeds or if divided the BVI fails.
  • Linda (14/10/2021, 19:16) Like (9) Dislike (1) Reply
    I remember many years ago the BVI would not allow anyone in with dreads because the government thought they were all drug dealers. We now know we were wrong. Allowing gay people to live their lives will not make you change your beliefs about who you are, so what is the problem? I admit some people men go overboard to show they are gay, but why do they go overboard when straight people just go about everyday routines?
  • Yehd (14/10/2021, 19:16) Like (3) Dislike (4) Reply
    The New World Order is in full effect.
  • Native Senior Citizen (14/10/2021, 19:19) Like (8) Dislike (7) Reply
    A people were born with human physical incompleteness. But no one was born gay. It is a decision of freedom of choice.

    Whether a person is gay or lesbian, they should be treated as a human with rights as all others do.
    Julio S. Henry aka Sam is right on on this one.
  • Capleton (14/10/2021, 19:27) Like (5) Dislike (3) Reply
    Fire!
  • lol (14/10/2021, 19:45) Like (9) Dislike (2) Reply
    folks is folks regardless.. I see no problem here
  • accept (14/10/2021, 20:23) Like (9) Dislike (3) Reply
    Just accept them. Tourist or no tourist. Grow up.
  • red it (14/10/2021, 20:24) Like (8) Dislike (8) Reply
    Does God approve of any gays or lesibians? God say its wrong and no man or woman can change what God said. The love of money make them accept anything even if its of the devil, and the bible speaks about this. Judgement pon the unjust
  • switch hitter (14/10/2021, 21:28) Like (4) Dislike (0) Reply
    the virgin islands filled with switch hitters they go with husbands or wives whoever answers the door first(talk that
  • Native Senior Citizen (14/10/2021, 21:37) Like (1) Dislike (4) Reply
    Sin is sin. No one has a right to belittle people that are gay and, or lesbian. Pray for them . Help to show, if they will listen, and accepted, the right way, not condemnation. We all have faults, we all need God's help in more ways than one. Amen.
  • Bigotry (14/10/2021, 21:50) Like (6) Dislike (3) Reply
    Why not welcome every tourist that comes on vacation if visiting our beautiful island is there only harmless desire! Why target minority groups while being insincere about your real opinion of there lifestyles for two faced profit!
  • Informed (14/10/2021, 22:25) Like (3) Dislike (3) Reply
    The PINK POUND as described in the UK, A couple adults and no dependents. They have a high disposable income to spend. Its a demographic which seeks experiences, luxury destinations. The world is changing and we need to welcome everyone.
  • Sell out (15/10/2021, 08:09) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    Look at this sell out for a few copper cents. Gain the whole world and lose your soul.
  • Concerned (15/10/2021, 10:46) Like (1) Dislike (1) Reply
    Wait a minute. Why are we having a conversation about this? If you are gay or not, arent you coming to the Virgin Islands to enjoy yourself? What exactly are you asking us to accept? Is it that you are coming to enjoy yourself and our amazing islands or are you coming to do something else? If you are only coming to enjoy our islands and yourselves then we have no problem. Anything else is NOT PERMITTED....
  • Wayne DEAD (15/10/2021, 13:27) Like (0) Dislike (0) Reply
    Sam smh go eat some green eggs and ham then shut the phk up!
  • Interested (15/10/2021, 15:05) Like (3) Dislike (2) Reply
    Fornication is condemned in the Bible. So whether it is between same sex or heterosexual couples, sin is sin. But homosexuality is specifically mentioned as an abomination. If we were created to procreate, tell me how that is possible in a same sec union!
  • RedStorm (15/10/2021, 15:44) Like (0) Dislike (1) Reply
    Stop the flop flapping or else you will get sale by old navy. The choice that you make you are to live by it whether other love or not.


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