1,500 expected to march on 75th Anniversary of 1949 Great March
The ceremonial march will seek to engage 1500 marchers, representing each person who participated in the Great March of 1949. The Premier is encouraging all residents of the Virgin Islands community to join in this significant occasion to be held under the theme: “A March, A Movement, A Milestone.”
Premier Wheatley said the march was a defining moment in the Virgin Islands’ pursuit for democracy and representation.
“As we reflect on the Great March of 1949, we pay homage to the indomitable spirit of our foreparents,” the Premier said. He added, “Their relentless pursuit of democracy and representation has indelibly shaped the very fabric of our society. Let us march forth together, united in purpose, as we continue to champion the principles, they so ardently upheld,” Dr Wheatley stated in a Government Information Service (GIS) press release on October 30, 2024.
The ceremonial march will commence at 3:00 PM at the bandstand and proceed to the Sir Olva Georges Plaza, where a celebratory concert will follow.
The Great March of 1949
On Thursday, November 24, 1949, approximately 1,500 courageous Virgin Islanders, led by Anegadian Theodolph Faulkner, Isaac “Glanny” Fonseca and Carlton de Castro, convened a powerful and peaceful demonstration of unity. The Great March culminated with the presentation of a petition, outlining demands to improve the conditions in the Virgin Islands, to Commissioner J.A.C. Cruikshank.
This mass demonstration proved to be a catalyst for political advancement in the Territory, resulting in significant political and constitutional development of the Virgin Islands.
Follow Us On
8 Responses to “1,500 expected to march on 75th Anniversary of 1949 Great March”
Moreover, the March resulted in 1) the Legislature, which was suspended in 1901, being reinstated, 2) roll out of first modern constitution in 1950, 3) Virgin Islanders for the first time having the opportunity to vote directly to elect members to Legislative Council, 4) attaining adult suffrage (1954), 5) precursor for the rollout of ministerial government in 1967, etc.
The marchers of 1949 pave the way for an improved quality life , privileges, rights, etc., in the Virgin Islands (British), passing the baton to next generation(s). The mantle was picked by National Hero Noel Lloyd and Positive Action Movement(PAM) (1968). Now current generations must take the baton and continue the journey. Why the 75th March is stopping at the Sir Olva Georges Plaza and not at Government Hill where the 1949 March ended?
The 75th anniversary must be more than symbolism. There must be purpose, goals, destination, plans on how to get to the destination and plans on what to do when arrive at the destination. 1500 brave, courageous, patriotic souls showed up and march in 1949. Will 9000 show for the 75th anniversary march?? Will 1500 show up? Truth be told, the populations mix for 1949 and 2024 are different, for indigenous Virgin Islanders are a minority of the population of approximately 40,000.
Cmon BVI ppl let's go