Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach is calling on residents to embrace what he described as the “complex but beautiful history” of the U.S. Virgin Islands as it celebrates the 108th anniversary of Transfer Day and the limitations of citizenship and as it struggles with the need for greater self-governance.
Transfer Day, celebrated on March 31, commemorates the formal transfer of the then Danish West Indies to the United States in 1917, marking the island’s transition to becoming the U.S. Virgin Islands. The formal ceremony took place months after the U.S. agreed, in January 1917, to purchase the islands from Denmark for $25 million in gold coin. March is also celebrated as V.I. History Month.
“In recognition of Transfer Day, I offer this message of reflection and well-wishes to the people of the Virgin Islands as we continue to be united in hope and pride,” Roach said in a released statement. “As we conclude the celebration of Virgin Islands History Month, this observance highlights the significance of the Transfer Day era and recognizes the many contributions of Virgin Islanders since the changing of the flags from Denmark to the United States on March 31, 1917.”
The release noted that this year marks the 108th anniversary of the Virgin Islands as an unincorporated territory of the United States.
“Let this Transfer Day be a reminder that our American nationality is still marked distinctively by both our Caribbean experience and our African heritage,” Roach said. “Let us seize the moment to embrace and celebrate the intricate details of our complex but beautiful history as we struggle with the need for greater self-governance and the limitations on our citizenship.”
The lieutenant governor highlighted the rich history of the territory adding, “as Virgin Islanders, we are guided by the bold and unwavering legacy of our ancestors.”
“We are inspired by those who fought unapologetically for our freedom and for basic human rights. We stand on the shoulders of visionaries who possessed a deep-rooted love for the Virgin Islands. We are proud of those who have represented the Virgin Islands locally, nationally, and globally, solidifying our placement in history along the way,” he said.
Further, in wishing the community a safe and memorable Transfer Day, he noted that the Virgin Islands has witnessed 108 years of innovation, achievements, advancements, and prospects for the future.
“I offer my prayers of God’s guidance and protection over all Virgin Islanders as we continue to contribute to our history and legacy as a territory,” Roach said.
