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July 14, 2008
GOVERNOR PROCLAIMS MONDAY AS "BASTILLE DAY" IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS AND JULY 13-19 AS FRENCH HERITAGE WEEK Noting the importance of the French citizen group in the Virgin Islands community, Governor John P. deJongh, Jr. has proclaimed July 13-19 as French Heritage Week in the Virgin Islands and has urged all residents to join in the observation. The proclamation caps a week of events, organized by several community groups and organizations, which were held in commemoration of French Heritage Week. "It is appropriate that we demonstrate to our residents, neighbors and friends of French descent, our feeling of warmth and sincere friendship towards them," deJongh said in the proclamation. The expertise of the people of French heritage in the areas of fishing, farming, the professions and other vocations has contributed significantly to the political, economic, social and cultural progress and growth of the territory. The governor also noted that today, Bastille Day, is the observance of the anniversary of the storming and destruction of the Bastille, the state prison in France during the French Revolution. "This was a significant act of bravery against tyranny during the French Revolution and resulted in the establishment of a republic and the freedom of the French people." The proclamation declares July 14 as “Bastille Day” in the Virgin Islands. The affection and respect of the people of the Virgin Islands for brothers and sisters of French descent have been recognized by the Legislature and various community organizations over the years, deJongh pointed out in the proclamation. |
