Under the morning sun on Monday, voices rose in unity as hundreds of residents, schools, organizations, fraternities, and sororities across St. Croix came together to honor the life, legacy, and enduring message of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
From the former Carib Supply site to Island Center, marchers walked with purpose — some carrying signs, others carrying memories, all guided by a shared commitment to justice, equality, and community.
The annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day March and Rally served not only as a tribute, but as a reminder that Dr. King’s dream continues to call for action, compassion, and courage.
Former senator and community advocate Donna Frett Gregory addressed the crowd, emphasizing the continued responsibility tied to King’s vision.
“I believe deeply in the dignity, work, and power of our people. I am honored to stand here with you, the people of St. Croix, who have never been afraid to speak truth to power,” Frett Gregory said.
She reminded attendees that the holiday represents more than remembrance.
“Martin Luther King is not just about reflection. It is a day of responsibility. Dr. King did not give his life so that we could be comfortable. He did not challenge injustice so that we could be silent. He demanded action, and that call is still with us today.”
During the rally program, Caleb Joseph of Lew Muckle Elementary School recited the historic “I Have a Dream” speech delivered by Dr. King at the Lincoln Memorial on Aug. 28, 1963.
Festival Prince, Noah Alexander Ramnarine Acevedo of Pearl B. Larsen Elementary School performed “Responsorial Psalm 23,” a passage frequently referenced by King in his sermons and speeches. While Festival Princess Jaylen Rodriguez of St. Patrick’s School sang “You Raise Me Up.” Additional performances included a poem by Dynasty Navarro and music by the Above Average Band of Pearl B. Larsen Elementary School.
Sen. Clifford Joseph also shared brief remarks, stating, “Reflecting on his words, we are reminded that we can all be of service.”
Keynote speaker Beverly Joseph spoke about the relevance of King’s teachings to the Virgin Islands.
“Dr. King taught us that the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice,” Joseph said. “Here in the U.S. Virgin Islands, we understand the struggle for equality. We know endurance shaped by saltwater winds, faith carried across oceans, and people who have learned how to rise again and again despite challenges.”
“Our islands are a testament to ancestors who labored without liberty, who sang freedom into existence long before it was law. We dream of an America that sees the Virgin Islands not as an afterthought or a footnote, but as a vital part of this nation,” she added.
