35th Anniversary of Senior Citizens’ Month Launched

Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley officially declared the commencement of the 35th anniversary of Senior Citizens’ Month in the Virgin Islands.

The declaration was made during a ceremony held at the Sea Cow’s Bay Methodist Church on May 1.

Minister Wheatley remarked, “This year, as we embark on this month-long journey of appreciation and recognition, we do so under the inspiring theme: Powered by Connections. This theme speaks to the profound impact that our senior citizens have had on our lives, and the interconnectedness that brings us all together as a community.”

He further stated, “These events span social and physical engagements to artistic and entertaining pursuits, providing avenues for personal development, social connectivity, and intellectual stimulation. By participating in these activities, you not only have the chance to forge new relationships and strengthen bonds with existing friends but also to share your wealth of experiences and insights with fellow participants.”

Premier of the Virgin Islands, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley, acknowledged the contributions of seniors in the Territory’s history and emphasized the need to ensure their quality of life.

“It is said that you can tell a lot about a society by how it treats its elders. There will also be room for improvement but for the most part, we in the BVI are doing a fairly good job in this area. This comes from our culture and our upbringing,” remarked Honourable Dr. Wheatley.

He added, “We in the BVI recognize the sacrifices and the work of those who have laid the path for us to walk on and the foundations for us to build on. We value and respect their efforts and their achievements, whether it has been in raising us and ensuring our education, creating generational wealth or across the spectrum of national development. In this regard, we are powered by connection; our connection to our seniors.”

Various activities are planned for the month, including intergenerational days, open houses, and cultural events across Tortola and the sister islands.