The Government of the Virgin Islands will be honouring the legacy of former Chief Minister and National Hero, the late H. Lavity Stoutt in a concert on March 2.
This year’s celebration marks the 25th commemorative celebration of the late Chief Minister and the second time since being elevated to National Hero status.
Permanent Secretary in the Premier’s Office Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe while reflecting on the Chief Minister’s legacy stated that even as Chief Minister, he remained his authentic self by being humble and kind, while expecting others to be their best.
Mrs. Stoutt Igwe said, “He took pride in his country by taking the best of it wherever he went, and brought back only the best to and for the development of this Territory. He was a man who was staunch in his faith, to the Lord whom he served, to these Virgin Islands where he was born, and to the people who elected him. He gave his all and his best to the development and success of The Virgin Islands.”
In commemoration of his contribution, “Heroes Live Forever: The H. Lavity Stoutt Concert” to be held on Sunday, March 2 at 6:00 has been designed to celebrate his legacy and educate future generations about his significant accomplishments.
Chairperson of the H. Lavity Stoutt Commemorative Celebration Committee and Director of Protocol, Mr. Kareem-Nelson Hull said the performances will be themed with upliftment and inspiration to exude the essence of H. Lavity Stoutt’s character.
Mr. Nelson Hull said, “The late Chief Minister will be featured as “The Church Man He Was” in the first segment, while the second segment themed, “The Country’s Man He Became” will celebrate his political life and the Territory we enjoy now, because of what he did then.”
Mr. Hull said that during the concert, a special presentation will be made by Premier, the Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley to those persons who have significantly contributed to honouring H. L. Stoutt over the past 30 years and as far back as the State Funeral.
The concert will be held outdoors at the H. Lavity Stoutt Community College campus and will see many performances including Soca Artiste and Virgin Islander Adam-O, R&B artiste and Virgin Islander Melanie Amaro, Psalmist Donna Clyne, Gospel Artiste Susan Best, and local favourite, VIBE lead singer, Jougo.
“Heroes Live Forever: The H. Lavity Stoutt Concert” is not only expected to be entertaining but will also seek to raise funds to support the goal of the college to educate and give back to its students.
The Government of the Virgin Islands is committed to preserving the historic culture of the Territory, by recognising its national heroes who contributed significantly to the development of Virgin Islands. This year marks 30 years since the late Chief Minister died and 35 years since the college which is named in his honour, was established.
Celebrations this year will also include the National Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Cappoons Bay Cemetery on Monday, 3rd March. All are encouraged to attend.