U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a series of proclamations recognizing significant historical figures, community milestones, and ongoing initiatives in the Territory for the month of August 2025. These observances reflect the Virgin Islands’ enduring commitment to education, heritage, public service, and local resilience.
Leading off the month, Governor Bryan has proclaimed Sunday, August 3, 2025, as Edward Wilmot Blyden Day in honor of the 193rd birthday of one of the Virgin Islands’ most notable native sons. Edward Wilmot Blyden rose to prominence in 19th-century Liberia as a teacher, newspaper editor, Presbyterian minister, high school principal, Secretary of State, and college professor. His writings and lectures strongly advocated for African unity and self-determination, laying the intellectual groundwork for Pan-Africanism, African nationalism, and the concept of African personality. “We honor Edward Wilmot Blyden for his intellectual leadership and enduring impact on global Black identity,” said Governor Bryan. “His contributions continue to inspire unity and pride among people of African descent.”
That same week, Governor Bryan has also proclaimed August 3–9, 2025, as National Farmers Market Week in the U.S. Virgin Islands, highlighting the importance of supporting local agriculture. Across the Territory, farmers markets provide access to fresh, nutritious food and promote sustainable economic activity. On St. Croix, the Agriculture Fair Grounds come alive every Saturday with local meats, produce, and artisanal goods, while the monthly Bordeaux Farmers’ Market on St. Thomas offers organically grown fruits and vegetables, prepared foods, handmade crafts, and live entertainment. “Our farmers are vital to community health and self-sufficiency,” said Governor Bryan. “We celebrate their commitment to nourishing and sustaining our islands.”
Continuing a month rich with civic engagement, Governor Bryan has declared Tuesday, August 5, 2025, as National Night Out, aligning the Territory with the nationwide initiative to strengthen police-community partnerships. Organized locally by the Law Enforcement Planning Commission (LEPC), the event fosters neighborhood camaraderie and promotes safer communities. “National Night Out is an opportunity to build mutual trust between residents and law enforcement,” Governor Bryan said. “May our communities come together to honor those who protect and serve, while reinforcing our shared responsibility for public safety.”
On Thursday, August 7, 2025, the Territory will honor one of its own trailblazing leaders with the observance of Melvin H. Evans Day. Dr. Evans served the Virgin Islands as a respected physician, Assistant Commissioner of Health, and as both the last appointed and the first popularly elected Governor, serving from 1969 to 1975. “Governor Evans was a pioneer whose leadership helped shape modern governance in the Virgin Islands,” said Governor Bryan. “We pay tribute to his legacy and lifelong service to our people.”
One week later, on Thursday, August 14, 2025, Governor Bryan has proclaimed Social Security Day in commemoration of the 90th anniversary of the Social Security Act. Since 1935, the Social Security program has provided essential support to millions of Americans—including more than 22,000 Virgin Islanders—helping them retire with dignity, support their families, and navigate unforeseen hardship. “Social Security is a pillar of economic stability for our residents,” said Governor Bryan. “We honor this milestone and commit to preserving these benefits for generations to come.”
Also recognized this month is the International Day of the World’s Indigenous Peoples, which the Governor has proclaimed on Saturday, August 9, 2025. The observance acknowledges the cultural contributions and enduring presence of Indigenous peoples around the world—and in the Virgin Islands. Supported by research, oral traditions, and DNA testing, the Territory affirms the existence of Amerindian descendants in the community. “We honor the heritage and traditions of Indigenous peoples worldwide and in our Territory,” said Governor Bryan. “Their resilience and wisdom continue to enrich our culture.”
Finally, Governor Bryan has declared August 18–22, 2025, as SHRM Virgin Islands HR Week in recognition of the third anniversary of the Society for Human Resource Management Virgin Islands Chapter (SHRM VI). This year’s theme, HR Week 25, will feature the HR & Business Conference and a week of professional development opportunities. SHRM VI unites over 100 HR professionals and business leaders across the Territory to strengthen local business ecosystems through innovation and collaboration. “Investing in our workforce and leadership capacity is key to our Territory’s prosperity,” said Governor Bryan. “We celebrate SHRM VI for their vision and contribution to the Virgin Islands economy.”
Governor Bryan encourages all Virgin Islanders to participate in these observances and reflect on the shared values of leadership, community, cultural pride, and service that they represent.
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