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Mr. Bryan and First Lady Yolanda Bryan, above, viewed an exhibit of Virgin Islander Alton Adams on display at the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington, D.C. during their recent trip.

“Each year in March, we recognize the extraordinary history and culture of our Virgin Islands and the achievements and contributions of its people. As Virgin Islanders it is important we celebrate the resilient spirit of our ancestors and continue the push forward in building upon their many hard-fought achievements,” Mr. Bryan said. “I encourage our young people to research one of our outstanding Virgin Islanders every day this month, and I encourage parents, educators and culture bearers to continue in your efforts to educate the coming generations of our history and our culture.”

Senators issued releases to mark the event, some detailing events their offices held.

“Black history is the history of every resident of the Virgin Islands, regardless of color, and it is impossible to truly make sense of life in this community without having some understanding of the history and culture of African people and their descendants around the globe,” said Marvin Blyden, a three-term senator in the St. Thomas-St. John District. “Although Black History Month is indeed a special time, I make it a priority to celebrate Black people and their accomplishments and contributionsevery day of my life. That’s the reason I remain active in the community; it is my duty andprivilege to uplift those around me in any way that I can.”

“The month of February is a time our nation has selected to focus on the struggles, achievements and contributions of African Americans in our society,” said Senator Dwayne DeGraff. “While we should acknowledge these contributions throughout the year, it is a perfect opportunity to educate our children on the advancements of our people.”

Senator Kurt Vialet’s office launched what it called “Read Aloud Loud Day”, which Mr. Vialet said “would allow us to champion the strengths that reading brings out in every child, in every adult, and is a wonderfully measurable and impactful way to cultivate lifelong readers.”

Senator Alicia Barnes marked the month by highlighting an extraordinary Virgin Islander, “Auntie Janice Tutein” a legendary storyteller.

Senator Athneil Thomas spoke to Ivanna Eudora Kean students with the theme “Black Migrations: Love, Service and Pride”. “Leadership is a must. Find something or an area of the community you’re passionate about, and lead the charge to make it great,” Mr. Thomas said during his talk.

Senator-At-Large Steven D. Payne, Sr. said in a release, “The territory has evolved significantly over the past 100 years, we have transitioned from a system where we were once led by delegated leaders to a system where we now elect our own leaders.”

Act 6802, sponsored by former Senator Shawn Michael-Malone in 2006, gave birth to VI History month. Senate President Kenneth Gittens said he would present all the public school libraries with the Legislature’s Oath of Office booklet, which he said includes pertinent historical details about the Legislature and the capitol building.

“It is my hope that these booklets will be a useful resource for our students and teachers,” he said.