Lieutenant Governor Roach’s Message on Emancipation Day

Submitted on July 2, 2024: by Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach, Esq. Roach is a Kittitian politician serving in the United States Virgin Islands. He is a member of the Democratic Party and is serving his second term with Governor Albert Bryan.

I join a proud and grateful Virgin Islands community as we commemorate the 176th anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved Africans in our homeland, the former Danish West Indies. This is a very important commemoration in the history of the Virgin Islands as it provides us with a moment to reflect on the day our brave and courageous ancestors rose up and demanded their freedom.

The events leading up to our emancipation on July 3, 1848 demonstrated the passion of our ancestors who were willing to end oppression and servitude on their own terms. Danish Governor General Peter Von Scholten’s proclamation to abolish slavery within twelve years was not accepted by the enslaved population and resulted in a massive rebellion in the town of Frederiksted, St. Croix, under the steadfast leadership of General Buddhoe.

We remain indebted to General Buddhoe and our extraordinary ancestors who made many sacrifices for the freedoms we enjoy today. As such, Emancipation Day is a day of reflection, reverence, and respect for our courageous leaders. Their actions should inspire us to continue to fight against the many injustices that affect our people and communities. Following in the footsteps of our ancestors, we must remain united in the fight for civil liberties, human rights, and equality for generations to come.

The grounds of Fort Frederik mark the site of this most sacred and triumphant day in the unique history of the Virgin Islands. As we gather today across the Territory to celebrate Emancipation Day, I pray for the continued strength and resilience of the people of the Virgin Islands.

Happy Emancipation Day!