Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. announces a series of important initiatives this December that promote education, public safety, health awareness, and human rights across the territory.
Highlighting these efforts is Computer Science Education Week, which will take place from Dec. 9 to 15. This annual event serves as a call to action to inspire K-12 students to engage in computer science, advocate for equity in the field, and recognize the significant contributions made by students, teachers, and partners. The event underscores the critical role that computer science plays in driving innovation, technological advancement, and economic growth, establishing it as a foundational element for the digital age.
In conjunction with educational initiatives, the territory will also observe Impaired Driving Prevention Month from Dec. 11 to Jan. 6. This campaign, “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over,” seeks to elevate public awareness about the dangers of impaired driving, especially during the holiday season when incidents may rise. Bryan proclaimed this month as a time for heightened vigilance, urging residents and visitors alike to prioritize safety and responsible behavior on the roads.
World AIDS Day on Dec. 1, served as a pivotal moment to increase awareness of HIV/AIDS, honor those affected, and advocate for prevention efforts. The 2024 theme, “Take the rights path: My health, my right!” calls attention to the need for health equity and the effectiveness of modern treatment options.
Additionally, Human Rights Day will be recognized on Dec. 10, coinciding with Human Relations Week, observed from Dec. 8 to 14. This week celebrates the universal dignity of all individuals and reinforces the commitment to the principles outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. The Virgin Islands community is encouraged to participate in activities that reflect the solidarity and equality that underpin our democratic values.
Administrative Leave has also been established for non-essential employees, with Virgin Islands Government offices operating on the following schedule:
- Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024: Christmas Eve – Administrative leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Wednesday, Dec. 25, 2024: Christmas Day – Closed.
- Thursday, Dec. 26, 2024: Boxing Day – Closed.
- Wednesday, Jan. 1, 2025: New Year’s Day Holiday | St. Croix Festival J’ouvert – Closed.
- Thursday, Jan. 2, 2025: Crucian Christmas Festival – Food, Arts, and Crafts Fair – Administrative Leave from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m. for St. Croix Only.
- Friday, Jan. 3, 2025: Crucian Christmas Festival – Children’s Parade – Administrative Leave Territory-Wide from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Monday, Jan. 6, 2025: Three Kings Day – Closed.
- Monday, Jan. 20, 2025: Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Closed.
