Governor remembers Christian as a devoted teacher, cultural guardian and champion of Virgin Islands traditions
U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. issued the following statement on the passing of renowned Virgin Islands culture bearer Bradley Christian:
“Today, the Virgin Islands mourns the loss of one of our most devoted cultural guardians.
“Bradley dedicated his life to preserving and teaching the traditions that define us as a people. He understood that culture endures only when it is shared, practiced and passed on.
“As a master quadrille caller, teacher and longtime leader of the St. Croix Heritage Dancers, Bradley introduced generations of Virgin Islanders to the history, discipline and beauty of quadrille. He also shared his deep knowledge of traditional dress, head-tie tying, food and other customs that form an important part of our identity.
“His commitment to culture was also reflected in his decades of public service. Bradley spent 36 years working in cultural preservation, including at Fort Frederik Museum and as a cultural specialist with the Department of Planning and Natural Resources.
“He carried Virgin Islands traditions well beyond our shores, representing the Territory across the Caribbean and the United States, including at the Smithsonian Folklife Festival.
“His influence can also be seen in one of the symbols Virgin Islanders now wear with great pride. Bradley helped inspire the effort to create an official Virgin Islands madras, an idea that ultimately became reality. I was proud to sign that designation into law in 2021.
“Bradley leaves behind far more than a record of accomplishments. His legacy lives in the dancers he taught, the traditions he preserved, the knowledge he shared and the generations who better understand their heritage because of his work.
“At this difficult time, my prayers are especially with Bradley’s wife and family as they mourn the loss of a husband, loved one and the man they knew beyond his many contributions to our community. I pray they find strength and comfort in the love surrounding them and in knowing how deeply Bradley was respected and appreciated throughout the Virgin Islands.
“On behalf of Lieutenant Governor Tregenza Roach, our Administration and the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend my deepest condolences to his wife and family, the St. Croix Heritage Dancers and our entire cultural community.”
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