The BVI Christian Council in a recent statement stated its disappointed in sponsoring of the upcoming Vybz Kartel concert by the Government of the Virgin Islands. The statement came after meetings were held with the Christian Council and the Premier of the Virgin Islands Dr. Hon. Natalio D. Wheatley who has led the Government’s support to local promoters in the sponsoring the upcoming show.
Upcoming event “misaligned with our values”
The statement said, “We recently met with Premier Dr. the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley, to discuss several pressing topics, including youth development initiatives and the church’s vital role in shaping a better future for our nation. While our conversations were positive on many fronts, we must address a matter of significant concern: the government’s decision to support the upcoming concert of artist Vybz Kartel on Saturday March 15th, 2025. This proposed event, as well as others that promote messages misaligned with our values, compels us to speak out, not only because of its immediate impact but because it represents a pivotal moment in our cultural and moral trajectory.”
The BVI Christian Council further stated that, “As the “Watchdog of our Nation and the Conscience of our Community,” The BVICC said that they have recognized that their past silence and slow response to issues has undermined their moral fabric and have contributed to the challenges we face today. Stating, “Too often, we have allowed concerns to remain within private discussions, hoping they would resolve themselves, but we now see that our inaction has had lasting consequences. We are committed to correcting this pattern and to providing a stronger, more consistent voice on issues impacting our nation’s wellbeing.”
Some of the concerns presented by the Christian Council in relation to Vybz Kartel and similar artists included, Erosion of Values, Impact on Youth and Society and Financial and Moral Costs.
The council further admonished the Premier to reconsider the decision stating, “We respectfully urge the Premier and the Government of the Virgin Islands to reconsider this decision, as we firmly believe this could be a defining moment in our national territory’s history. Let us be judged favorably in the future, as a people who stood firm to safeguard our moral principles and who left a legacy of integrity for the next generation.”