VI Day celebration was ‘disappointingly lacklustre’- Skelton-Cline
This call to action comes from Claude O. Skelton-Cline, talk show host, social commentator and pastor, who expressed his views on the importance of these celebrations during his radio show, "Honestly Speaking," aired on ZBVI and Facebook on July 8, 2025.
‘Disappointingly lacklustre’
As the Virgin Islands marked Virgin Islands Day on Monday, July 7, 2025, Skelton-Cline noted, “While we are making commendable strides in revitalising our annual calendar with events that truly reflect our identity as a people and a nation, I feel compelled to offer a social critique. It is my belief that our celebrations will evolve and improve over time, but the way we commemorated this significant day—aside from the vibrant VI Icon Awards that took place on Sunday evening—was disappointingly lacklustre.
“It struck me that as a community, we are underestimating our responsibility in nation-building and in honouring our forebearers, as well as the unique narrative that binds us together and the rich cultural heritage we cherish.”
Historical significance
Virgin Islands Day, an annual observance celebrated on the first Monday of July in the British Virgin Islands, has a historical significance dating back to 1956. This was the year when the federation dissolved, and the Colony of the Virgin Islands was officially established. Over the decades, the holiday has transformed from "Colony Day" in its early years to "Territory Day" in 1978, and finally to "Virgin Islands Day" in December 2020.
Mr Skelton-Cline pointed out, “One of the major shortcomings we face is how we celebrate our national holidays. For instance, a surprising number of people were unaware that it was Virgin Islands Day. My primary message is that there must be a deliberate and unified effort to enhance our observances.”
He added, “This is essential for constructing a solid national identity and fostering pride among our people. It is crucial for both the private and public sectors to share in this responsibility.”
‘Inappropriate date’
He further reflected on an insightful suggestion he received, stating that “Some people have proposed that perhaps Virgin Islands Day is scheduled on an inappropriate date. Maybe The Great March of 1949 should be recognised as the pivotal day we celebrate, Virgin Islands Day, given its immeasurable importance in our history.”
The Great March of 1949 represents a landmark moment in the Virgin Islands’ pursuit of political progress.
Pastor Skelton-Cline asserted, “We, as a community, must do significantly better in the way we commemorate holidays that resonate with the soul of our people, much more effectively than we demonstrated on Monday. Yet, I maintain a sense of optimism; as an evolving nation and democracy, I look forward to a more robust effort from both the public and private sectors as we approach Virgin Islands Day next year.”
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17 Responses to “VI Day celebration was ‘disappointingly lacklustre’- Skelton-Cline”
There was increased ignorance towards the UK and an antagonistic approach to the UK brought about by A. Fahie and N. Wheatley.
It is odd that the name was changed at all. It would have been better to save it for when we are no longer a Territory and therefore needing a change
It is all part of the on going Agenda constantly pushed by P487 and the political elites to drive Independence against the will of the people.
Only God can help US. Thank you Mr. Skelton.
Our children do not want to associate with VI culture because the people involved in leading out the charge are too racist in their approach .
We have too much deep seated anger aganist the people who live amongst us .
We hate their guts and just tolerate them
So that is why it will be that way
Our own people despise us like crabs in a barrel