At 5:00 pm on Saturday, 19th March 2022 a candlelight vigil will be held at the Queen Elizabeth Park II (QEII Park).
The Justice for Jaimez Committee along with other supporters will host this event under the theme “Voices Against Gun Violence”.
Approximately 26 persons fell victims to gun violence in the Territory of the Virgin Islands between the period of 2017 – 2022.
According to organizers, the primary objectives are 1. To raise community awareness on the subject; 2. To demand justice for victims of gun violence; 3. To demand legislative reform and 4. To celebrate the birth date of the recently slain Jaimez Stoutt.
Participants will include members of the clergy, elected officials, the Royal Virgin Islands Police Force, Rotary Club (Peace Building), M.A.L.E., with impact statements from family members and Mothers of victims.
“Too many of our young men have been senselessly gunned down, leaving grieving families and fatherless children. It is time we demand change”, said Mrs. Joycelyn Leonard-Walters, mother of Jaimez Stoutt.
The event is open to all interested persons, especially family, and friends of victims of gun violence.
“I am hoping that this event will be the catalyst for the change we are demanding, and we can bring an end to gun violence in the BVI,” Mrs. Leonard-Walters further shared.
Persons attending the vigil are encouraged to walk with candles, however, cell phones lights can also be used.
Mask-wearing and social distancing protocols will be observed, and entertainment will be provided.