The Territory is being reminded that this year marks seventy years since legislative government was restored, as it prepares to observe the 25th Anniversary of the passing of one of its greatest visionary leaders, the late Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt.
Director of Culture, Dr. Katherine Smith said, “H. Lavity Stoutt was undeniably one of those persons who signified a pivotal moment of transition for the Territory. When we understand his profound vision for the Territory we can ask ourselves today, “How will the journey continue?” I encourage one and all to join in this public remembrance that anchors us, and refreshes our collective memory that there are individuals who were critical to this journey.”
The commemoration will be held on Monday, March 2 under the theme, “The Journey Continues” at the Eileene L. Parson Auditorium at 10:30 a.m. The event is hosted by the Government of the Virgin Islands in collaboration with the H. Lavity Stoutt Commemorative Committee.
The late H. Lavity Stoutt was born on March 7, 1929. He served as Chief Minister of the Virgin Islands for over sixteen years and is credited with establishing the cruise ship pier, creating the Social Security Scheme, overseeing the construction of the Central Administration Complex and spearheading the development of the local community college, which is named in his honour.
The Government of the Virgin Islands through the Department of Culture celebrates the life of the late Honourable H. Lavity Stoutt as a person of historic significance to the Territory every year on the first Monday in March. The day is declared a public holiday in celebration of the anniversary of the birthday of the Territory’s first Chief Minister. The Honourable Hamilton Lavity Stoutt died on May 14, 1995.