In her biweekly column, “State of the Territory,” former Sen. Janelle K. Sarauw delves deeper into issues of concern for V.I. residents.
As we celebrate the holiday season, the Virgin Islands finds itself at a crossroads. While homes across our islands string lights in celebration and hope, shadows of violence, loss, and despair linger in too many corners. Our small Territory, with a population of less than 100,000, has suffered over 43 homicides this year. Each of these lives lost is a light extinguished, leaving mothers grieving, fathers aching, and communities broken.
We cannot ignore the strain of poverty, the weight of injustice, and the frustration that simmers in the hearts of our people. The burdens of energy insecurity, limited private investment, and a struggling economy exacerbate the anger that too often boils over into violence. But even as we confront these painful realities, I urge us to embrace the spirit of the season and reclaim our shared humanity through one transformative call: peace.
The Call for Peace in Every Faith
Ours is a multifaith community, a textile of traditions and beliefs that all cherish the value of peace. As we gather in our homes, temples, mosques, synagogues, and churches, let us reflect on the wisdom each faith offers to heal our wounds and renew our commitment to harmony.
- Rastafarianism teaches, “The teachings of His Imperial Majesty are the teachings of peace, love, and the unity of mankind.” Let us unite as one people, beyond divisions, to seek the love and understanding that binds us.
- Hindu philosophy reminds us, “When there is righteousness in the heart, there is beauty in the character. When there is beauty in the character, there is harmony in the home. When there is harmony in the home, there is peace in the world.” May we cultivate righteousness in ourselves and bring peace to our families and neighbors.
- Buddhism proclaims, “Better than a thousand hollow words is one word that brings peace.” Let us speak to one another with care, choosing words that uplift rather than harm.
- Islam calls us to strive for peace with the greeting “As-Salaam-Alaikum”—peace be upon you. May we extend this greeting beyond words and build communities where peace is not just a hope but a reality.
- Judaism offers the prayer, “Nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war anymore.” In a time of violence, let us disarm our hearts and learn peace anew.
- Christianity celebrates the birth of Christ, heralded by angels proclaiming, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, goodwill toward men.” May we strive to embody this goodwill in every interaction.
Addressing Our Challenges
Peace is not a passive state; it requires action, courage, and commitment. We cannot call for peace without addressing the roots of violence in our community.
- Invest in justice: Our overburdened justice system must be reimagined to ensure fairness, rehabilitation, and equity. True peace is impossible without justice.
- Empower families: Many of our mothers and fathers grieve not just for lost children but for opportunities stolen by poverty. Let us prioritize social programs that lift families out of despair.
- Support our youth: Anger among our young people is too often a symptom of unmet potential. We must create spaces for their talents, dreams, and energies to flourish.
- Revitalize our economy: Peace thrives in communities where people can work, earn, and invest in their future. Private investment and economic policies must focus on fostering opportunity for all.
A Virgin Islands Christmas
As we gather to celebrate the birth of hope and renewal, let us pause to consider the gift we can give one another: the gift of peace. Let this Christmas season remind us of our shared humanity and our collective power to change. We must resolve, as individuals and as a community, to turn away from violence and toward love.
To the grieving mother, I say: You are not alone. To the childless father, I say: We see your pain. To the frustrated young man or woman, I say: Your life matters. And to every resident of this beautiful Territory, I say: Peace begins with us. This holiday season, let the Virgin Islands stand as a beacon of hope, united in its diversity and committed to the hard work of healing. Together, may we build a future where peace reigns not just for a season but for all time.
May peace be upon you and your loved ones. Complements of the Season, Virgin Islands.
Editor’s Note: Opinion articles do not represent the views of the Virgin Islands Source newsroom and are the sole expressed opinion of the writer. Submissions can be made to visource@gmail.com.
