In celebration of Virgin Islands History Month, the St. Croix Farmers in Action hosted the V.I. Cultural History Jubilee, a free community event Sunday at Estate Bethlehem. The afternoon was dedicated to recognizing the contributions of Virgin Islanders whose impact on the community is often overlooked.
“As part of Virgin Islands History Month, the St. Croix Farmers in Action thought it was a good idea to take a moment to celebrate the contributions of Virgin Islanders – individuals many may not be aware of – who have significantly shaped our community today,” said event coordinator Nadia Bougouneau.
The event honored Wilfred ‘Bomba’ Allick Jr., Theodore ‘Teddy’ Brow, Marilyn Christian, Andre McBean, Thorvald ‘Choco’ McIntosh, Richard Schrader, Laurene Simmonds Robles, Roy Rogers, Karen Thurland, and Asta Williams.
A summary of each honoree’s contributions was read before they were presented with a beautiful mahogany plaque in recognition of their efforts.
Akua Ducard, communications director for St. Croix Farmers in Action, shared the dedication behind the event. “We hashed through so many different ideas and challenges. We wanted to make sure the space was prepared, and quite a bit of effort went into making today a beautiful day – and it truly was. We’re so proud of how it turned out. It was amazing,” she said.
Bougouneau emphasized the importance of including students in the event. “Our intention was to involve the students so they could learn more about those who came before them and what they did to shape our community. We also wanted them to participate and celebrate their own talents,” she said.
The event featured performances by poets, quadrille dancers, and steel pan players. Young hosts introduced the honorees, and the program included libations, a drum circle, a tribute to ancestors, live music, and local vendors.
Among the many highlights of the afternoon, Ducard recalled one particularly moving moment when the honorees were acknowledged for their contributions.
“To see Mr. McIntosh step up to the mic with tears in his eyes, and his family also moved to tears, was just so beautiful and moving. We wanted this to be special for them, and it truly felt like a special moment they could share with their loved ones. We could not have imagined the level of impact this event had,” Ducard said. “I feel very fortunate to have been part of making this day special for these 10 individuals, truly giving them their flowers while they are still here and honoring their living legacy.”
Another unforgettable moment was when cultural advocate Stephanie Chalana Brown shared a heartfelt exchange with honoree Asta Williams.
“That moment – when Ms. Williams said, ‘You come sit with me because you’re my girl’ – was so organic,” Bougouneau reflected. “Chalana is on her own journey to preserve culture and oral histories, and for her to have that moment with one of her idols and a true trailblazer in the community – you couldn’t script it.”
The afternoon closed with honorees enjoying the planned afternoon with their loved ones and other honorees.
