U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The Government of the Virgin Islands, under the visionary leadership of Cindy L. Richardson, Director of the Division of Personnel, has launched a transformative initiative aimed at strengthening ethical standards within the government. The “Integrity in Action” Ethics Workshop, spearheaded by Aliya Felix, Esq., Personnel’s legal counsel, is more than just a training session—it’s a cornerstone of our unwavering commitment to maintaining the highest levels of integrity across all government operations.
On Tuesday, August 27, 2024, the Division of Personnel proudly introduced the “Train the Trainer” Initiative, marking a significant milestone in our ongoing efforts to elevate ethical standards throughout the Government of the Virgin Islands (GVI). This collaborative effort brings together thirteen attorneys from various GVI agencies to ensure the efficient and widespread dissemination of the “Integrity in Action” workshop to all government employees.
In a show of support for this vital initiative, Governor Albert Bryan Jr. and Lt. Governor Tregenza Roach attended the launch event, delivering brief remarks and actively engaging in the session. Their participation underscores the administration’s dedication to empowering our public servants with the knowledge and tools needed to navigate ethical challenges confidently and effectively.
The “Integrity in Action” Ethics Workshop is designed to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of ethical principles and practical strategies for navigating ethical dilemmas. This initiative goes beyond mere compliance; it seeks to instill a culture of integrity that will enhance public trust, improve ethical decision-making, and ensure the accountability of our government operations.
During the four-hour workshop, attorneys from key agencies—including the Office of the Governor, the Lt. Governor’s Office, the Department of Planning and Natural Resources, the Department of Labor, the Bureau of Internal Revenue, the Office of Collective Bargaining, and the Department of Property and Procurement—were equipped with the tools to lead ethics training sessions within their respective agencies. Key topics covered included the definition of ethics, the GVI’s Code of Conduct, proper use of government resources, conflict of interest, ethical decision-making, confidentiality, and data protection. The workshop also featured real-world scenarios tailored to GVI operations, providing participants with practical applications they can incorporate into their own training.
Looking ahead, these trained attorneys will play a crucial role in the program’s success by leading interactive and engaging workshops across various government agencies in a four-phased rollout. Their efforts will ensure that ethical principles are not just taught but lived and applied in every aspect of government work.
The Government of the Virgin Islands remains steadfast in its commitment to reinforcing ethical conduct and integrity within its operations. Through initiatives like the “Integrity in Action” Ethics Workshop, we are dedicated to ensuring that public trust is both earned and maintained, laying the foundation for a government that operates with transparency, accountability, and the highest ethical standards.
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