US VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a series of proclamations recognizing February 2026 as a month dedicated to reflection, education, health, workforce development, and community awareness in the United States Virgin Islands.
The month of February is recognized nationally as National Black History Month, and Governor Bryan has proclaimed February 2026 as “National Black History Month” in the United States Virgin Islands.
In his proclamation, the Governor affirmed the Territory’s commitment to justice and inclusion, writing, “We pledge to continue to stand against the evils of bigotry, intolerance, and hatred in pursuit of a more perfect Virgin Islands and United States of America of which we, as a Territory, are a part.” Governor Bryan called upon public officials, educators, and all Virgin Islanders to honor the history and achievements of Black Americans, to reflect on the centuries of struggle that have led to this moment of reckoning, redemption, and hope, and to vociferously express the need to safeguard the democratic principles of equality and fairness on which the nation was founded.
In recognition of the importance of children’s health, Governor Bryan has proclaimed February as “National Children’s Dental Health Month,” as designated by the American Dental Association. Emphasizing the responsibility to protect the well-being of young people, the Governor stated, “Our children are the future of the Territory, and safeguarding their health and well-being is one of our most important responsibilities.” The proclamation highlights the importance of oral health education and preventive care for children across the Virgin Islands.
Governor Bryan has also proclaimed February as “Career and Technical Education Month” in the United States Virgin Islands, underscoring the need to strengthen and expand academic and occupational skill development to meet the demands of an increasingly technical society. This year’s national theme, “The Future of Work, Powered by CTE,” highlights the opportunities available for students to explore diverse career pathways that combine academic knowledge with technical skills essential for success in the 21st-century workforce.
As part of national efforts to combat heart disease, Governor Bryan has proclaimed February as “National Heart Month” and February 6, 2026, as “Go Red for Women Day” in the United States Virgin Islands. Under the Go Red for Women campaign, individuals and organizations are encouraged to wear red and promote education on cardiovascular health, prevention strategies, risk factors, and lifesaving practices. The Governor encourages everyone to attend the Go Red for Women event on February 6, 2026, and to participate in activities that raise awareness about heart disease.
Addressing the serious issue of youth safety and healthy relationships, Governor Bryan has proclaimed February as “National Teen Dating Violence Awareness and Prevention Month” in the United States Virgin Islands. Noting that one in three adolescent girls in the United States experiences abuse from a dating partner, the proclamation embraces the 2026 national theme, “Real Love Respects,” as adopted by the National Domestic Violence Hotline’s love is respect project, to promote awareness, education, and prevention.
Governor Bryan has also proclaimed Thursday, February 12, 2026, as “Digital Learning Day” in the Virgin Islands. Digital Learning Day is a national celebration of innovative teaching and learning in K–12 schools and highlights the effective use of technology to enhance educational outcomes for students.
Recognizing the vital role of engineering and technical education, Governor Bryan has proclaimed February 22–28, 2026, as “National Engineers Week” in the United States Virgin Islands. The week promotes math, science, and technology literacy and encourages young people to pursue engineering careers, helping to build a diverse, skilled, and competitive engineering workforce for the future.
Finally, Governor Bryan has proclaimed February 2–6, 2026, as “National School Counseling Week” in the United States Virgin Islands, in alignment with the American School Counselor Association. The proclamation recognizes the critical role school counselors play in supporting student success, academic achievement, and personal development.
Through these proclamations, Governor Bryan reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to education, public health, workforce readiness, and the well-being of all Virgin Islanders.
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