Junior Minister for Tourism and Culture, Hon Luce D. Hodge-Smith (R4), has said the culture of the Virgin Islands (VI) is the living expression of identity. Photo: YouTube

November is being observed as Culture and Tourism Month under the theme ‘Our BVI, Our Culture, Our Story’. Photo: GIS

November is being observed as Culture and Tourism Month under the theme ‘Our BVI, Our Culture, Our Story’. “[The theme] is a reminder that our culture is not simply a part of our past; it is the living expression of our identity and the legacy we continue to shape together,” Hon Hodge-Smith said in her message to mark the beginning of Culture and Tourism Month. 

The story of the VI, she said, is written in its history, expressed through its culture, and reflected in the warmth, resilience, and spirit of its people. “As we welcome Culture and Tourism Month, we celebrate things that make our Virgin Islands unique and remind us of who we are.”

Our culture connects us to our roots

Hon Hodge-Smith said our culture lives in the stories told by elders, the rhythms of our music, the flavours of our cuisine, the creativity of our people, and the traditions passed from one generation to the next. 

“These are things that connect us to our roots and give meaning to our Virgin Islands identity. Culture and Tourism Month is an opportunity for us to celebrate our heritage, explore our historical sites and museums, recognise the contributions of our cultural practitioners, and inspire our young people to embrace and preserve the traditions that make us who we are.”

The Minister added that by preserving culture, we preserve our history, and by sharing our history, we share our story, ensuring that the spirit of the Virgin Islands continues to live on. 

Take pride in who we are 

“Our culture gives our destination its distinctive character. It creates meaningful experiences for our visitors while providing opportunities for our local businesses, creatives and cultural practitioners,” she said. 

Culture and Tourism Month is an invitation for the world to experience the VI through our eyes, connect with our people and become part of our story, the minister continued. 

“To our people, let us take pride in who we are, celebrate our heritage and continue passing our traditions on to the next generation. To our communities, let us participate, share our knowledge, support our cultural practitioners, learn more about our historical sites and museums and keep our story alive.”