Wheatley Backs Minister Over Parade
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has publicly defended Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Luce Hodge-Smith after debate over a proposal to move the Emancipation Festival parade from Emancipation Monday. He says the idea is part of ongoing consultations to resolve long-standing logistical clashes with the Rise and Shine Tramp and that no final decision has been made.
Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley has thrown his support behind Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Luce Hodge-Smith amid public concern about a proposal to change the day of the annual Emancipation Festival parade. Speaking at a press conference, Dr Wheatley described Hodge-Smith as well qualified and committed to improving the territory’s cultural celebrations. “She has my full support… she has my greatest respect and my greatest support, and I believe she’s doing an excellent job,” he said, while stressing that the matter remains under discussion and not finalised.
The controversy began after Hodge-Smith suggested moving the parade off Emancipation Monday. The proposal drew immediate attention because the parade is one of the Virgin Islands’ most significant cultural events, traditionally held on the Monday that marks the territory’s commemoration of emancipation.
Dr Wheatley said the suggested change is intended to address a persistent logistical problem: many of the same people who take part in the Rise and Shine Tramp on Monday are also parade participants, which often leads to delays and clashes between the two events. “One challenge that everybody acknowledges… is the fact that the same persons who participate in the Rise and Shine Tramp on Monday are the same persons who go to the parade,” he explained.
The Premier noted that proposals to adjust the parade’s timing or date are not new and that residents have raised similar concerns for many years. He defended Hodge-Smith’s motives, saying she is attempting to resolve a recognised issue and urging the public not to persecute her for bringing the matter forward.
To ensure any change reflects community views, the government is proposing a survey to gather feedback from residents and stakeholders. Dr Wheatley encouraged an open-minded and constructive approach, saying proposed adjustments are intended to enhance, not divide, the celebration.
For many BVI residents, the Emancipation Festival carries deep cultural and historical significance, and any alteration to its schedule is likely to be scrutinised. The government has signalled it will consult widely before making a final decision and is inviting public input on how best to balance tradition with practical event management.
As discussions continue, officials say no firm decision has been taken and that the aim remains to preserve the spirit of the festival while improving logistics for participants and spectators.
Primary source: BVI News