Your Sexuality Is by God's Design
Faith leader Sandra Phillip-Hodge urged residents to “protect your sexuality” in a Facebook commentary on June 23, 2026, saying sexual orientation is determined by God and warning against influences she described as contrary to the Creator's design. Her comments come as the United Kingdom has signalled it will raise same-sex marriage during constitutional negotiations beginning next month, a subject Premier Natalio Wheatley has acknowledged will be discussed while the territory explores civil partnerships but retains a ban on same-sex marriage.
Sandra Phillip-Hodge, a local prayer leader, posted a Facebook commentary on June 23, 2026, urging Virgin Islands residents to “protect your sexuality” and describing sexual orientation as ordained by God. In her post, Phillip-Hodge said: “You may have been told that you can do what you want with your body; you may have been influenced by the media, or friends and acquaintances who practice a lifestyle contrary to the design of the Creator of our wonderfully made bodies.
But it's not too late to come back to reason and logic.” She also called on followers to pray for deliverance from what she termed “unclean spirits,” and named promiscuity, pornography, “the alphabet culture (LGBTQ), fornication, prostitution and adultery.” The commentary arrives as the UK has indicated it will raise the issue of same-sex marriage during constitutional negotiations scheduled to begin next month.
That signal has already prompted public discussion locally about how the Virgin Islands will respond to potential pressure from the UK. During an earlier public engagement session on May 5, 2026, Premier Dr the Honourable Natalio D. Wheatley confirmed that same-sex marriage is an issue expected to arise in talks. “We know, of course, that’s an issue that is going to come up.
That’s an issue they have already signalled will come up, and we’ll have a discussion,” he said, noting the VI negotiating team and the UK team will each bring their positions to the table. Premier Wheatley has said the territory is working toward recognising civil partnerships for same-sex couples, while maintaining that same-sex marriage will remain illegal in the Virgin Islands.
Currently, same-sex marriage is not permitted under local law. Phillip-Hodge’s remarks reflect views held by some faith-based and conservative residents; others in the community and human rights advocates have called for broader protections and recognition for LGBTQ people. As constitutional talks approach, public consultations and debates are expected to intensify.
Residents who wish to make their views known are encouraged to follow government announcements about consultation sessions and to participate in public meetings. The constitutional negotiations will involve formal discussions between the UK and local representatives, with both sides presenting positions that could have legal and social implications for the Territory.
Primary source: VINO