Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. has issued proclamations for June that recognize Virgin Islands fishing culture, Caribbean culture bearers, amateur radio operators and those who have been diagnosed with Sickle Cell Anemia. He will also emphasize the importance of the oceans, HIV testing and men’s health.
Gov. Bryan declared June 1 through June 9 as National Fishing and Boating Week. In the proclamation, he acknowledges that fishing greatly aids the territory’s economy. It is a source of healthful food, promotes respect for sound conservation and for the bounty and wonder of our natural resources, and it introduces locals to the benefits of outdoor recreation.
During the week of June 23 through 29, which Bryan has proclaimed as Amateur Radio Week, June 25 has been designated as a “field day” for amateur radio operators. He encourages territorial residents to recognize and appreciate the diligence of amateur radio operators, known as “HAMS,” who also serve as volunteers in the capacity of emergency communication in support of the Virgin Islands Emergency Management Agency (VITEMA).
Recognizing the sacrifices of those who came before, the governor proclaimed the month of June as “National Caribbean-American Heritage Month” in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Gov. Bryan urges Virgin Islanders to “take a moment and reflect that had it not been for the brave efforts of our ancestors that came before us, we would have never been able to enjoy and experience the freedoms that we have today.”
Despite advances in medical technology and research, men continue to live an average of five years less than women, with Native American and African American men having the lowest life expectancy. Bryan has proclaimed June as Men’s Health Month and encourages all Virgin Islanders to pursue preventive health practices and early detection efforts throughout the year.
The governor has proclaimed the month of June as “‘National Ocean Month” and urges all people of the Virgin Islands to continue to take care and appreciate the beautiful and pristine ocean waters that the territory depends on for its survival and happiness, and to remember the Virgin Islands anthem, which pays homage to the seas and the people.
By declaring World Sickle Cell Anemia Awareness Day in the territory on June 19, he is emphasizing prevention, education and compassion, with hope for further advancements in the treatment of the disease.
Gov. Bryan has declared June 29 National HIV Testing Day as a reminder to individuals to take charge of their health and access available testing services.
June 26 through July 3 is being recognized as Virgin Islands Freedom Week. Bryan encourages Virgin Islanders to commemorate and advance the USVI’s many contributions to historic heritage narratives, notable achievements of excellence, cultural legacy quests and self-determination liberties with its unique and diverse representation of people, culture and heritage technology.
The Bryan-Roach Administration is investing in the territory’s people, infrastructure and future through transparency, stabilizing the economy, restoring trust in the government and ensuring that recovery projects are completed as quickly as possible. Visit https://transparency.vi.gov
