John McCarthy
CHARLOTTE AMALIE – Senator Marvin Blyden said he will join millions of people of African descent around the world in celebrating Black History Month during the month of February. Black History Month begins today February 1.
Blyden urged Virgin Islanders to celebrate and study Black History and the historical and cultural impact of black people throughout the year.
“Black history is the history of every resident of the Virgin Islands, regardless of color, and it is impossible to truly make sense of life in this community without having some understanding of the history and culture of African people and their descendants around the globe,” the third-term Senator said. “Although Black History Month is indeed a special time, I make it a priority to celebrate Black people and their accomplishments and contributions every day of my life. That’s the reason I remain active in the community; it is my duty and privilege to uplift those around me in any way that I can.”
Senator Blyden called on educators and historians to share with young Virgin Islanders, the rich and diverse history of people in the African diaspora.
“I especially want to empower and inspire our youth with positive images of people who look like them,” he said. “It is of tremendous psychological importance to know who we are as a people and where we came from. I believe that it can help to break the chains that mentally hold so many in bondage.”
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