In celebrating International Women’s Day on March 8th, Minister for Health and Social Development Hon. Vincent Wheatley has paid tribute to the remarkable accomplishments of women in the Virgin Islands while reaffirming the Territory’s commitment to gender equality and empowerment.
In a recent statement Wheatley extended warm wishes to all women in the BVI for the annual celebration, saluting their “sterling contributions” towards the development of the islands.
Aligning with the United Nations’ 2024 theme “Invest in Women: Accelerate Progress,” the Minister highlighted the importance of recognizing both achievements in gender parity as well as persisting challenges, with a special focus on women’s roles in economic development.
Wheatley honoured a number of BVI women pioneers who broke new ground, including Mrs. Eileene Parsons and Ms. Ethlyn Smith as the first females elected to the Legislative Council in 1995, Mrs. Dancia Penn-Sallah as the first Attorney General, and other trailblazers across politics, law, medicine and business.
In his capacity as Minister responsible for the Office of Gender Affairs, Wheatley reaffirmed his “unwavering commitment” to maintaining a Virgin Islands free from discrimination, violence and injustice against women and girls.
“I am dedicated to sustaining a society with no tolerance for gender-based violence, ensuring that all spaces are safe for women and girls,” he asserted.
The Minister expressed pride that the BVI remains a place where women have equal opportunities to prosper and actively engage in shaping the Territory’s future.
Wheatley highlighted that this thrust towards inspiring inclusion is reflected in the National Sustainable Development Plan’s Goal One emphasizing healthy living through the promotion of gender equality and women’s empowerment across all spheres of life.
As International Women’s Day is commemorated, the Minister encouraged the public to acknowledge and pay tribute to the impactful contributions of women, celebrate trailblazers, and anticipate inspiration from the next generation of female leadership.
“Together, let us continue to empower and uplift women to ensure that every woman has the opportunity to overcome barriers, attain success and flourish,” Wheatley stated.