US VIRGIN ISLANDS, St. Thomas – Governor Albert Bryan Jr. has proclaimed September as a multifaceted Awareness Month, recognizing Attendance Awareness Month, Labor and Management Awareness Month, Ovarian and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, National Preparedness Month, and National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
Throughout September, residents are encouraged to acknowledge important observances such as West Indies Solidarity Day, Patriot Day, Gold Star Mothers and Family Day, Maroon Commemorative Day, and National Grandparents Day.
Statistics reveal a concerning truth: children in poverty are two to three times more likely to be chronically absent from school. Regular school attendance is vital for improving educational outcomes, making September Attendance Awareness Month a critical initiative in the Virgin Islands to combat this cycle.
September is also designated as Labor and Management Awareness Month, reflecting the Territory’s commitment to workforce development and efforts to attract Virgin Islanders residing abroad to return home.
Highlighting health concerns, September marks Ovarian and Prostate Cancer Awareness Month, focusing on the need for increased education and early detection of these prevalent cancers among men.
In light of the pressing issue of suicide in the Virgin Islands and the U.S., September is proclaimed National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, reinforcing the Territory’s dedication to expanding mental healthcare access and implementing effective prevention strategies.
This month emphasizes the importance of emergency preparedness, with calls for residents to take proactive steps during National Preparedness Month. Agencies are collaborating to enhance public engagement in planning for emergencies, urging individuals to formulate their own preparedness plans.
The last Sunday of September is designated as Gold Star Mothers and Family Day, honoring families who have lost loved ones in military service, acknowledging their sacrifices on September 29, 2024.
September 2 has been declared West Indies Solidarity Day, celebrating the shared history and cultural ties between the US Virgin Islands and the West Indies.
Patriot Day on September 11 honors the memory of the 2,977 lives lost during the terrorist attacks in 2001, including seven St. Croix natives, creating a day of remembrance for families and the community.
Nominated in 1979, National Grandparents Day falls on the first Sunday of September following Labor Day, recognizing the special bond between grandparents and grandchildren. This year, it is celebrated on September 8, 2024.
In recognition of the Maroons’ struggle against slavery, September 28, 2024, is designated Maroon Commemorative Day, inviting citizens to honor their ancestors and reflect on the rich history of self-determination.
During this series of proclamations, Lieutenant Governor Tregenza A. Roach acted on behalf of Governor Bryan, who was attending the Democratic National Convention. The Bryan-Roach administration continues to invest in the Virgin Islands, focusing on transparency and economic stability.
