32nd Legislature Remembers Bingley Richardson

ST. THOMAS — Members of the 32nd Legislature hosted a remembrance event today at the Earl B. Ottley Legislature dubbed “Refelections” in honor of former Senate President of the 20th Legislature, Bingley G. Richardson. Mr. Richardson served as a senator in the 17th, 18th and 20th Legislatures.

“There is an African Proverb that says when an old man dies, a library burns to the ground,” said Senate President Myron Jackson. “Richardson was a civil rights activist, policymaker, businessman, griot, mariner, pan-Africanist, father and a family man. Senator Richardson epitomized the best you can ask of a native son. He was a fearless leader who loved people dearly. He dedicated his life to the upliftment of his race.”

V.I. historian and cultural legend, Glen “Kwabena” Davis, also shared his thoughts.

“When Richardson saw that the carnival was moving away from Virgin Islands culture and imitating the carnival in Trinidad, he inspired the troupes to have themes that represent the Territory,” Mr. Davis said. He continued, “Bingley instituted that carnival in the Virgin Islands showcase and highlight our culture, our people and our daily experiences because we have a lot to offer.”

Senate President Bingley G. Richardson, Sr.,

Additional aspects of the memorial included the blowing of a conch shell by Jason Meade; the invocation and benediction were led by Pastor Vickki Parris; the New Beginning Christian Fellowship sang the national anthem; Gylchris Sprauve sang the Virgin Islands march, and Detra Davis sang the black national anthem. There were several musical selections that were presented by Lorna Freeman and remarks were given by senators.

 “Bingley Richardson made a big impact on all of us. He was a different man who carried himself with pride and distinction. He walked and talked differently. When Bingley spoke, everyone listened,” said Senator Brian Smith.

“I did not have a personal relationship with Bingley Richardson. However, I thank him for impacting my life in two ways: One, Bingley raised community awareness and African consciousness to who we are as a people. Secondly, his outstanding commitment and courage to protect the natural resources of the Virgin Islands,” Independent Senator Tregenza Roach said.

Senators present at today’s event included Jackson, Smith, Roach and Janette Millin Young.

On Tuesday, Governor Kenneth Mapp ordered that all Virgin Islands government buildings fly flags at half-staff in honor Mr. Richardson until June 10.

“He will live on in the annals of Virgin Islands history and in the memories of all those whose lives he touched,” Mr. Mapp said. “Bingley and I served together in the 20th Legislature of the Virgin Islands, when he was Senate President. While we served on opposite sides of the aisle, the president served with distinction, respecting all members of the Senate. He was committed to protecting both our civil rights and economic interests and he deeply loved the Virgin Islands and its people. My thoughts and prayers remain with his loved ones during this time of mourning. May his soul rest in peace.”

The Mapp administration also recognized June 10th as a day set aside in honor of Mr. Richardson.

He will lie in state for public viewing on Friday at the Capitol Building in the Earle B. Ottley Legislative Hall from 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. The funeral service will be held on Saturday at 10:00 a.m. at the Christ Methodist Church at Market Square. Interment will be at the Western Cemetery No. 3.