Feb. 1 marks the beginning of Black History Month. It is a time to honor the legacy of countless Black men and women past and present and to recognize and celebrate the significant contributions they continue to make to our society. Black history is the Virgin Islands’ history. Virgin Islanders of African ancestry have been an integral part of the fabric of this territory for centuries. Each one of us is currently creating our individual and collective histories. We must never forget the trailblazers of civil and human rights whose names echo throughout our history.
Still, we must also celebrate the momentous changes our people spearhead daily. Let us not wait until they have passed through the veil before we give them their flowers and continue to support the initiatives and discoveries that are reshaping our lives and the world around us.
While Black History Month is a time for learning and celebration, we cannot forget that people of African descent suffered horrific atrocities due to anti-Black racism, hate and discrimination. Racism, hatred, prejudices and discrimination continue to be a reality for many people. Inequality, injustice and inherent privilege still exist in our society, and we must continue to work together to build a better and more inclusive future for all — a future where freedom, by its very definition, can be applied to those who have traditionally been marginalized.
On behalf of my office, I encourage everyone to learn more about our history as we strive to make our territory stronger, fairer and more inclusive. Let’s aspire to be a society where all can succeed and prosper.
Senator-at-Large Angel L. Bolques Jr.
