Bryan and Roach issued Emancipation Day statements on July 3, 2019

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. and Lt. Gov. Tregenza A. Roach issued statements on July 3, 2019, marking Emancipation Day and the 171st anniversary of the emancipation of enslaved African people in the former Danish West Indies.

Bryan said Emancipation Day was a reminder of the cost of freedom and of the sacrifices of ancestors.

In a separate Emancipation Day message, Roach said the observance marked both a celebration of freedom and a recognition of the suffering endured under slavery. He said the day was an occasion to honor those whose actions secured freedom and to recommit to the ideals of liberty, justice and freedom.

Roach also noted that organizations across the territory were scheduled to host Emancipation Day activities and encouraged residents to participate.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-and-lieutenant-governor-roach-celebrate-emancipation-day/