On Wednesday, Sept. 25, a solemn event was held at the Emancipation Garden on St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, to honor the lives lost to violence. Families, friends, and communities came together to share stories of loss and resilience, offer mutual support, and find healing through shared grief, the V.I. Justice Department announced.
The 17th annual observance of the National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims was hosted in collaboration with the Victim Services Unit of the Virgin Islands Justice Department, the Family Resource Center, and the Virgin Islands Police Department, according to the press release.
Attorney General Designee Gordon C. Rhea stressed the significance of the event while
reaffirming the Department’s commitment to justice. “Behind every homicide case are real people with families who love and miss them. We must continue to say their names and keep their legacy alive. The DOJ remains unwavering in its dedication to seeking justice for all, including those taken from us by violence.”
Lt. Gov. Tregenza Roach emphasized the importance of support, reminding everyone that
they are one community. “As I listened to the grandmother speak about losing her granddaughter, I realized I knew every member of her family, all the way back to her great-grandparents. We need to support one another during this painful time because, in a small community like ours, we are not separate—we are deeply connected, and we share in that grief and loss.”
Before the main event, a rose-laying ceremony was held along the Waterfront in front of Vendors’ Plaza to honor homicide victims. Many attendees took this moment to reflect on their loved ones by calling out their names in remembrance, the press release stated.
Andrea Hamilton, who lost her son Aaron Hamilton Ashby to violence in 2020, shared how
difficult the journey has been. Grateful for the support she’s received, she’s now channeling her energy into bringing a vision to life. “I’ve started a foundation, and my idea of justice for Aaron is to see an all-male mentorship program become a reality.”
Elma Brathwaite, the DOJ’s Victim Services coordinator, who takes on numerous responsibilities to ensure victims are treated with dignity and compassion, believes this ceremony serves as a meaningful way for the community to show empathy and support for the families and friends of those lost to violence. “National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims is a time for relatives to share recollections of their loved ones who lost their lives to violence and keep their memory alive. We always want to make sure these victims are never forgotten, and this allows us to focus on remembering them.”
Anya Stuart, executive director of FRC, acknowledged the pain felt by those in attendance and expressed her gratitude for their presence. “I know this is difficult for each of you, and we thank you for being here. It’s heartbreaking, and while we cannot bring back our loved ones, we can support one another as a community. By spreading awareness, we can work towards reducing violent crimes. I understand everyone is busy, but some things are worth making time for.”
Desiree Ritter-Lambertis, VIPD Victim Advocate, shared, “When I visit schools and ask if anyone knows someone who has died from violence, 20 years ago no child would raise their hand. Now, children are raising both hands, saying, ‘My aunt, my uncle…’”
The National Day of Remembrance for Murder Victims was established by Congress in 2007 and is observed annually on Sept. 25.
To view videos of the event:
Facebook: https://fb.watch/v6xGMeIINy/
YouTube: https://youtu.be/8aaj1QYhKL4
Download Link: https://we.tl/t-L4yQOPPzlp
For more information and resources:
V.I. Justice Department, Victim Services Division
340-774-5666 Ext. 10205
elma.brathwaite@doj.vi.gov
Family Resource Center, Inc.
St. Thomas 340-776-3966
frc4.ed@gmail.com
Virgin Islands Police Department
340-778-2211
911 Emergency
police.commissioner@vipd.vi.gov
