Hon. Delores Christopher says if the VI's culture is not preserved and taught to young Virgin Islanders, then the territory will be depending on false traditions. Photo: VINO

The Fifth District Representative made the comment while addressing the House of Assembly sitting on July 27, 2012.

Hon. Christopher stated that the culture of the Virgin Islands is significantly fading away and the only way to preserve and save the traditions of the Virgin Islands, is to pass it on to the younger generation.

“Madam Speaker, we must introduce our culture to the young people of the Virgin Islands. Our culture and traditions such as our fungi music needs survival and should be introduced into the schools and to the students at a very young age.”

The District Representative informed the HOA, that if the VI's culture is not introduced to the young people, specifically at a young and vulnerable age, then the Virgin Islands will not be the same in years to come, and will be leaning and depending on false traditions.

“Our culture is important, and there are skillful persons in these areas in the Virgin Islands, who can lend a hand as teachers and instructors to teach younger ones its importance and how to play different instruments.”

In light of this, Hon. Christopher made reference to some of the Fungi bands in the Territory, such as ‘Lashing Dogs’ and ‘Razor Blades’.