Premier Urges Unity This Christmas
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley urged Virgin Islands residents to restore a spirit of togetherness, compassion and support as the Christmas season begins. Speaking at a Seventh District tree-lighting event, he called for community support for those facing hardship and forgiveness as the territory moves into 2026.
Premier and Seventh District Representative Dr Natalio Wheatley has appealed for renewed unity and compassion across the Virgin Islands as the Christmas season begins. Delivering remarks at a Christmas tree lighting in his district earlier this week, Dr Wheatley said the territory’s sense of community has weakened in recent years and urged residents to rebuild connections. “Our community has deteriorated a bit.
There was a time in the Virgin Islands when we all knew each other. We all loved each other, and we behaved that way. But now we may not know everybody, and we certainly don’t act like we love everybody,” he said. The Premier said community events such as the tree lighting provide an opportunity to revive a spirit of giving and neighbourliness. “What we want to do is use events like this to bring our community together.
To remember that the reason for the season is Jesus. And not just to say that, but for our behaviour to reflect Jesus,” he added. Dr Wheatley urged residents to reach out to those who are struggling during the holidays, including families coping with recent loss. Without naming her, he referenced the sudden passing of Director of Communications Karia Christopher and described his own grief: “I just lost someone very close to me, close professionally and personally.
And I want to remember their family at this time.” He also acknowledged that many people enter the season dealing with loneliness, sadness or other personal challenges, and called on the community to be “our brother and our sister’s keeper.” The Premier encouraged neighbours, churches, businesses and community groups to check on vulnerable residents and to offer practical and emotional support where possible.
Looking ahead to the new year, Dr Wheatley urged forgiveness and healing. “As a community, we also have to have a spirit of forgiveness. Let us not go into 2026 holding grudges… Let’s clean our hearts and leave all of that behind us and go forward in 2026 in love and in unity with a sense of community,” he said.
His remarks come as community organisations across the territory continue to host Christmas activities — from tree lightings and school concerts to charity drives and church services — aimed at strengthening neighbourhood ties and supporting those in need during the holiday season.
Primary source: BVI News