U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has issued a series of proclamations designating important observances throughout October 2025, calling upon Virgin Islanders to reflect, honor, and take action in recognition of significant historical events, public safety efforts, health awareness campaigns, and cultural milestones.
“Each of these observances reminds us of the shared history, resilience, and responsibility we carry as a community,” Governor Bryan said. “They highlight causes that deserve our attention—from preserving lives through better health and safety practices, to celebrating our cultural bonds, to honoring the struggles and triumphs of our ancestors.”
Special Days
- Contract Day – Wednesday, October 1, 2025
Governor Bryan has proclaimed October 1 as Contract Day in the Virgin Islands. This date marks 147 years since the 1878 Fireburn Uprising on St. Croix, when Queen Mary Thomas, Queen Agnes Salomon, and Queen Mathilda McBean led workers in revolt against unfair labor conditions. The Governor called upon all Virgin Islanders to reflect on their sacrifices and the fight for justice. - Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day – Monday, October 13, 2025
Celebrated annually on the second Monday in October, Virgin Islands–Puerto Rico Friendship Day honors the enduring ties of family, culture, and partnership between Virgin Islanders and Puerto Ricans, first recognized in 1964. - Indigenous Peoples’ Day – Monday, October 13, 2025
Governor Bryan also proclaimed October 13 as Indigenous Peoples’ Day in the Virgin Islands, in alignment with national observances, to honor Native cultures and commemorate the history of Indigenous peoples. - White Cane Safety Day – Wednesday, October 15, 2025
The Governor declared October 15 as White Cane Safety Day, urging citizens to respect the White Cane Law and safeguard the independence and mobility of persons who are blind or visually impaired. - Buckle Up Phone Down Day – Wednesday, October 29, 2025
With distracted driving causing more than 2,151 crashes and two fatalities annually in the Territory, the Governor proclaimed October 29 as Buckle Up Phone Down Day, urging all drivers to prioritize seatbelt use and avoid cell phone distractions.
Special Weeks
- Fire Prevention Week – Sunday, October 5 to Saturday, October 11, 2025
Governor Bryan emphasized the importance of fire safety, particularly with the risks posed by lithium-ion batteries, by proclaiming October 5–11 as Fire Prevention Week. Virgin Islanders are urged to take steps to protect their homes, families, and communities. - Virgin Islands Taxi Week – Sunday, October 19 to Saturday, October 25, 2025
Acknowledging the essential role of taxi operators in the Territory’s transportation system, Governor Bryan proclaimed October 19–25 as Virgin Islands Taxi Week, recognizing the industry’s contribution to the economy and daily life.
Special Month Observances
- Domestic Violence Awareness Month
Governor Bryan declared October as Domestic Violence Awareness Month in the Virgin Islands, supporting the national theme “With Survivors, Always” and calling for compassion, accountability, and community support for victims and survivors. - National Cybersecurity Awareness Month
Recognizing the growing importance of digital safety, Governor Bryan proclaimed October as National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, urging residents to practice online safety and protect personal and community data. - National Disability Employment Awareness Month
To highlight the contributions of individuals with disabilities in the workforce and to promote inclusion, Governor Bryan proclaimed October as National Disability Employment Awareness Month. - Rett Syndrome Awareness Month
Governor Bryan also proclaimed October as Rett Syndrome Awareness Month, urging Virgin Islanders to support affected families, advocate for treatment, and encourage medical research to find a cure for this rare genetic neurological disorder.
In advance of the October observances, Governor Bryan also issued a proclamation on World Heart Day, September 29, 2025, noting that one in five people globally die prematurely from cardiovascular disease (CVD)—a leading cause of death worldwide.
“These proclamations reflect our commitment to honoring our past, addressing present-day challenges, and ensuring a safer and healthier future for the Virgin Islands,” Governor Bryan concluded.