Bryan issues July proclamations for Emancipation Day, French Heritage Week and other observances

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. issued a series of July 2025 proclamations recognizing historical, cultural and community observances in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The proclamations designated July 10, 2025, as Juan Francisco Luis Day, honoring the third elected governor of the U.S. Virgin Islands. The proclamation noted that Luis took office on Jan. 2, 1978, after the death of Gov. Cyril Emmanuel King, later won election and served until 1987. Luis died on June 4, 2011.

Bryan also proclaimed July 3, 2025, as Emancipation Day. The proclamation said that on July 3, 1848, enslaved and formerly enslaved people on St. Croix assembled and took control of Fort Frederik, demanding immediate freedom, and that Danish Gov. Peter von Scholten later declared the abolition of slavery in the Danish West Indies.

Another proclamation designated July 23, 2025, as Ras Tafari Day. The statement said the observance recognized the Ras Tafari community and coincided with the birth of Haile Selassie I.

Bryan also proclaimed July as Disability Pride Month, citing the anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, which was signed into law on July 26, 1990.

A separate proclamation designated July as National Sports, Parks, and Recreation Month.

Bryan also proclaimed July 8-14, 2025, as French Heritage Week, culminating in Bastille Day on July 14.

Official source: https://www.vi.gov/governor-bryan-issues-july-proclamations-honoring-history-culture-and-community-in-the-u-s-virgin-islands/