‘Respect for each other’ was always @forefront of VI culture- Premier
The Premier was speaking at the opening of the Virgin Islands Emancipation Festival’s Cultural Food fair at Cyril B. Romney Pier Park on Friday, August 1, 2025, under the theme ‘This isn’t just Food, this is Culture, this is We’.
“So we treat each other with respect, we treat each other with dignity, we do unto others as we would have them do unto us. This is what the Virgin Islands culture was built on more than anything else, more than any type of music, more than any type of food, more than any type of practice. It had to do with respect for each other,” Premier Wheatley reminded.
The Leader of Government Business, Premier Wheatley, also took the opportunity to once again honour the memory of the late cultural icon Eileene L. Parsons, OBE, who he recalled chaired the last Cultural Food Fair activities last year.
“We owe it to her. That’s why I am glad that we have our plait pole dancers and Heritage Dancers continuing the tradition of celebrating our history, our heritage, and our culture. It belongs to us, and if we don’t celebrate it, who will celebrate it?
“And all those persons who have come from near and far, they have come to experience our culture and our heritage,” Hon Wheatley said, as he urged Virgin Islanders to value their culture and heritage.
Cultural Food Fair
Many flocked to Cyril B. Romney Tortola Pier Park to get a bite or more of the various local foods and drinks on sale. They had the option of choosing their lunch or snack from the many booths.
Steel pan music, provided by Shooting Stars Steel Band and Pan in Motion, added to the ambiance, as patrons savoured their local foods and beverages.
There were also performances by Paradise Sky Dancers, Razor Blades, and Zion Sounds, featuring the legendary Elmore Stoutt.
According to the Acting Chief Executive Officer of Tortola Pier Park Limited (TPPL), Ms Zoe J. Walcott, the vibrant success of this year's Cultural Food Fair stands as a true celebration of Virgin Islands culture, creativity, and community spirit.
"We are proud to highlight how this event brought together residents and visitors in a joyful showcase of our rich culinary heritage.
"From traditional local dishes passed down through generations to innovative twists by rising chefs, the Food Fair was a feast for the senses. The enthusiasm of our food vendors, artisans, and cultural performers not only satisfied appetites but also reminded us of the importance of preserving and promoting our unique identity."
A 'platform for small businesses to shine'
Beyond the flavors, according to Ms Walcott, this event was "a platform for small businesses to shine".
She told our News Centre, many local entrepreneurs received meaningful exposure, new customers, and valuable connections, adding that such events are not just social gatherings, but they are vital engines for economic empowerment and cultural pride.
"We extend our deepest thanks to everyone who supported, participated in, or attended the Food Fair. Your presence and engagement are what make such events meaningful. We also acknowledge the unwavering commitment of the planning team, volunteers, and sponsors who ensured the day ran smoothly.
"As we reflect on the success of the Food Fair, we look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to create inclusive, memorable experiences that celebrate who we are as a BVI people," Ms Walcott stated.
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8 Responses to “‘Respect for each other’ was always @forefront of VI culture- Premier”
Do you even listen to the words you speak???? Even your mouth is in disbelief!!
So many have no water to bathe yet WASTING WATER DURING RISE AND SHINE TRAMP / J’OUVERT!!
Why the need for naked women on the streets and kids looking on
Why the need for alcohol n these outside artiste
I think it’s time for this crap to be over already
Or not wanting a new airport and the debt that comes with it.
Or wanting roads, water, libraries, financial reports, end of corruption, transparency and the end of secrecy. No, not respecting that.