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Rock City vs. Twin City: What We Really Fighting For?

You know, this debate has raged forever. I thought I understood why, but now I haven’t the foggiest idea. It seems as if generations of Virgin Islanders have been bamboozled by those who profit from the tension between St. Thomas and St. Croix.

They always told us in Rock City that the beef was about Crucians being upset that St. Thomas receives all the attention. They say St. Thomas is both the political capitol and the financial capitol. They tell us that Crucians are mad that the majority of tourism is focused on St. Thomas/St. John. But, now I have to question...

Hypocrisy Beyond Words

Every day rumors of deferred pay days, shortened work weeks and layoffs are heard. Any and all of these proposed events will affect the quality of life of everyone in our village. Who is preparing the community for the hard times we may all fall on? How are these changes going to affect the children, the elderly and the working man and woman struggling to hold on to a declining quality of life?

The Educated Ignorant…

When will we realize that we deserve better treatment when we travel and relocate abroad? When will we realize that we are targets for demeaning treatment? When will we realize that our respect is based on what we expect?

This is a blatant slap in the face towards one of our native children who simply moved to the mainland in search of wider opportunities. It is like saying that all the murders that took place against Blacks before we were recognized as citizens of America are justified!

Our List of Burial Items

Prosperity. Check! Legacy. Check! Potential. Check! Ambition. Check! Origination of Ideas. Check! These are just a few of the items we lost and buried when our 11-year old native son Jaheem Herrera was buried on April 28, 2009, died at his very own hands.

Pipe Dreams & Ponzi Schemes: Is This The Promise Of The EDA?

Why is it that the Virgin Islands keeps popping up in scandal after scandal? In addition to engaging in its own share of corruption, the Virgin Islands seems to invite corrupt (or, at least questionable) individuals. What’s next?

Community development should trump economic development

You know if nothing else, this economic depression has caused a review of the merits of offering high pay and tax breaks for residency in our community. The jobs our youth prepare for in college are seemingly no longer lost due to a lack of knowledge or experience, but to the economic activities of the world and its stock markets and manipulations.

Women Build the VI Labor Movement!

Withouth women, would there be a labor movement in the Virgin Islands? As we observe Women's History Month, I think it is a great time for us to evaluate the role women have played in the Virgin Islands. Maybe it will help inspire current and future generations to advance the Cause of the Virgin Islands. But, what is that purpose? Read and tell me...

Second-Class Citizenship and de Facto Segregation

One of these days, the local media and possibly the national and international media will discover the argument in federal court case Krim M. Ballentine versus The United States, U. S. District Court case number 1999-130. Contrary to the mainstream sentiment that the case was about voting for the President of the United States and electing a voting Member of Congress, the case was really about full citizenship and the current denial of citizenship for Americans. If they had asked me - the Plaintiff of the suit, this fact would be understood.

Lent Can Bring Renewal to the Virgin Islands

This week, the Christian season of Lent began. Why are you observing Lent? Is it simply because Lent has arrived? Is it because of a Christ that has been detached from our daily existence? Or, do you observe Lent for spiritual renewal and directed purpose? With the many problems in the Virgin Islands (and in America), what can this time of repentance (Lent) offer us?

Towards a Decrease in Violent Crime in the Virgin Islands

Governor DeJongh needs to consider some things, and he must act with deliberate speed. With crime running rampant, how will we begin to ensure the safety of Virgin Islanders? In an economy so dependent upon tourism, what does a high crime rate mean for the Virgin Islands economy? How do we begin to bring some sense to law enforcement in the Virgin Islands? Am I the only one who thinks this is a concen?

Will voting rights in DC open door for United States' colonies in Caribbean and Pacific?

The U.S. Senate is scheduled to debate giving the District of Columbia a voting member of the U.S. House of Representatives next week. Delegate Eleanor Homes Norton (D-DC) has told reporters that she believes the votes are there to pass the legislation. The Obama fever gripping the Congress during President Barack Obama's 'honeymoon' period may be enough to propel the bill to passage. But, what will passage of voting rights mean for Americans in other colonies?

Virgin Islanders: The Other African-Americans

Painfully accentuated during Barack Obama’s presidential campaign bid was the fact that there exists African-Americans “in the U.S.”, men and women born on American soil, citizens who are not qualified to participate in the election of the U.S. president. At the same time, many of these Virgin Islanders have fought and served the military in every major U.S. conflict since World War I and have shed blood and lost lives on foreign soil as recent as Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Year of the Black Man

As I write this, we are still in January gearing up for a helluva Black (current) History Month! With the first Black man to ascend to the US Presidency and the first Black man to ascend the ranks of the anti-slavery party (Republican Party), I can’t help but think - this is “The Year of the Black Man.”

Does Governor DeJongh Really Remember Dr. King?

Everyone loves to invoke Dr. King. Whenever they want to stir up false hope, they throw out Dr. King's "Dream," without recalling the pain and struggle he endured. This is my new favorite picture of Dr. King. Maybe someone can show it to Governor DeJongh, while he considers the "divine connections" betwenn Dr. King's leadership and Obama's presidency. Does Governor DeJongh really remember Dr. King?

Lessons from the Miracle on the Hudson

Captian Sully gave the Nation hope in the power of the individual to be a catalyst for good. Truly the "Miracle on the Hudson" was an inspiring moment for which we all are thankful. But, what lessons can we glean from this ordeal? Could you imagine if the same thing were to occur in the Virgin Islands?

Is Governor DeJongh Finally Committed to Full & Equal Citizenship for Virgin Islanders?

In his State of the Territory Address, Governor DeJongh stated that we Virgin Islanders have "always fought to establish the right and reality that all men and women are created equal, must be treated equally, and must be provided an opportunity to achieve their individual potential." Can he possibly be saying that the (unincorporated) Territorial Status of the Virgin Islands gives equality to Virgin Islanders? Does denying voting rights to Virgin Islanders give us equal treatment? Are we created equally if an American born and/or living in the Virgin Islands has less rights than an American born and/or living on the mainland? What could Governor DeJongh be saying?

Black Like Me, American Like the Rest, or a New American?

What an amazing time in which we live! With the election of the first "Black President," comes much elation and so many expectations. Not only in America, but also across the African (and entire) world, people have hopes that this will mean something. Will Black People - and indeed, the world, allow this opportunity to catch us sleeping? Will you alllow this opportunity to pass you by? Find out here...

After the Inauguration, Should We Get Back to Normal?

I’m sure I’m not the only one struggling today to keep with my routine. The past few days, everything seemed to move according to its own schedule. Time stood still, but time flew by quickly. Yet, this morning all was a bit sluggish. We still want to be (and are) glued to the press coverage of President Obama. And, I wonder: am I the only one having trouble pulling myself away?

Renewing America’s Promise to the Virgin Islands

A happy new year people of the Virgin Islands; or, should I say guinea pigs for novice politicians? Are we the people of the Virgin Islands allowing ourselves to be guinea pigs for politicians’ learning processes in governing? Mr. Governor, your staff mostly has exhibited little knowledge of successful politics and little successful experiences for the positions appointed.

It Took a Black Man to Bring the American Presidency to the People

As you listen to the media coverage of this Inauguration, you clearly see how unprecedented much of President Obama’s Inauguration is. Never before has there been so much hoopla about an American President.

We know that it is because of the (truly) historic nature of this election and his ascendency to the Office. It was very important for the history of this moment to be “taken all in.” But after we take it in, what’s left?

Barack Obama Visits Neighborhood of DC Virgin Islander

This makes my Inaugural Weekend! I can't think of anything that could top it...unless of course I had dinner with the First Family! Can you believe it?! My wife ran home: "honey, there are police everywhere! Secret Service!"

Helicopters swarmed above. DC Police, Capitol Police, Secret Service Police and Secret Service plainclothes all converged on our block. Droves of reporters were there as well. And, of course - my neighbors!

Obama-mania was in full effect on Capitol Hill as Barack Obama paid a visit to the Sasha Bruce

From College Hill to Colonialism: UVI Strives to Assert its Irrelevance!

Even in a land led by Black people, somehow our people still believe that White ice is colder than Black ice. Now after the shameful debacle of BET’s College Hill which showed that no education goes on at the University of the Virgin Islands, we are subjected to intellectual colonialism at the hands of the same so-called “university.”

Testing a Statement: Once You Go Black You Never Go Back!

You know the statement. You’ve heard the statement. You may have even used the statement.

Now, we’ll see how true that statement is. America has gone Black. Will she ever go back?

The Black Experience and the War Agenda

Police have historically misused deadly force without meeting the parameters of imminent danger. Black men - unarmed or inadequately armed - have routinely been subjected to police brutality and unjustifiable killings. Has this philosophy of deadly force permeated our foreign policy?

Is this stage set for President Obama to help Blacks?

Secret Service, check! Inauguration parties, check! Ticket scalpers, check! Black people, check!

Some people have waited 8 years for this moment. Others have waited their entire lives. The preparation for this historical moment began taking place on Nov 5th, the day after his victory was announced. The media began dispatching reporters to cover the event, while celebrities began planning inauguration appearances and concerts. Inauguration tickets have become as coveted as crude oil in the summer of 2008. The stage production is being tested over and over to ensure that everything works perfectly without a hitch; lights, cameras, and sound. But is the stage truly set?

Did You Know? The Greatest Heavyweight Ever - a Virgin Islander!

Before Black Jack Johnson, there was Peter Jackson. The "Black Prince" was born in Christianstead on St. Croix, Virgin Islands. He became a renowned boxer, regarded as "the greatest" even by his racist peers. Yet, that racism denied him the opportunity to fight for the world title.

Virgin Islanders Forced Back to the Plantation. "MASA" Provides Better Healthcare!

Willie Lynch said that if a slave is properly broken they will never leave the plantation. It seems as if the Virgin Islands has been effectively broken, for over 40% of us are forced to seek help from Masa. It may sound funny. To some it may sound off-base. But, pause and think about it...

Virgin Islands Second Most Corrupt Government in USA!

In light of the Blagojevich scandal, the New York Times recently published an article that indexed the corruption level of various US Governments. Remarkably - but not surprisingly - the Virgin Islands Ranked #2 in the United States! Based on the number of corruption convictions per million constituents, the Virgin Islands has the second highest rate of corrupt officials.

Virgin Islander, Devin Robinson, Offers Help to Break the Cycle

On Saturday, Stephanie Scott-Williams of WVWI Radio One had Devin "Dutchie" Robinson at Dockside Bookshop on St. Thomas. He was discussing his books with striking applications for the Virgin Islands. The lessons he shares are important to the Virgin Islands and the survival of our Territory.

President-Elect Barack Obama to Name Colorado Senator Ken Salazar Interior Secretary

In announcing his energy and environment team on yesterday, President-Elect Barack Obama said, "The Interior Department will play a critical role in meeting the challenges" of energy dependence and the environment. Now, I agree these are very serious and challenging issues that must be solve. But, maybe former VI Senator Adelbert Bryan was right...

A Quart Fo Deh VI!?

Yesterday, the United States Mint revealed the quarter designs that will be used to patronize the US Virgin Islands and the other US Colonies. Instead of revealing Democracy, or backing away from the racist rulings of the Insular Cases, the United States Government gives us a quarter. Like an aloof man of wealth confronted by someone in need, the throw us a quarter to appease their own guilt for being hypocrites.

An Iraqi Lesson to Americans: The Freedom to Throw Shoes at the President!

Iraq has taught us all something today. And, it took eight years to learn this lesson! If you’ve been paying attention, by now you should have seen the “Breaking News coverage of George W. Bush in Iraq being attacked by flying shoes. First of all let me start by saying I do not condone the throwing of shoes against officials in government, supervisors, parents or friends. However, this shoe flying event shows the frustration of the Iraqi people, and might I add many people of the world.

What Will Be the Fate of the 5th Constitutional Convention?

No one from the pre-American Colonial Governments sat on the American Constitutional Convention. John Adams was offered a position in service to the King, but he refused. He would rather be part of the revolution. The Delegates to the Virgin Islands Constitutional Convention have yet to realize that they are, in fact, Revolutionaries. But with at least two of the Delegates to Convention poised to take Senate seats, is the Virgin Islands Constitution doomed?

RNC Delegate from the US Virgin Islands Gets Angry

Pushing and shoving...the Country (USA) seems to think that the Virgin Islands is a pushover. Tell them: "Me'ain no punk!"

Hope Has Come to America - Not to VI Youth!

Obama's UN Ambassador, Susan Rice, Asserts Her Belief in the Rights of US Colonial Subjects

Today, President-Elect Barack Obama announced his National Security Team. In what's being praised and critiqued as a Lincoln-esque "Team of Rivals," Barack Obama has assembled a National Security Team that is politically and socially diverse. No one has really challenged the credibility of any nominee. And while much of the news focused on the nomination of Senator Hilary Clinton for Secretary of State, there is a nominee that holds far greater implications for the Virgin Islands and other residents of America's Colonies.

What Does Former VI Senator Basil Ottley Have to Say?

Corruption abounds, indictments have been filed, investigations are ongoing and prosecution awaits. Someone will pay for using Uncle Sam for personal gain. Edgar A. Johnson has been charged with fraud and faces up to 20 years in prison, up to $250,000 in fines or both. Former Virgin Islands Senator Basil Ottley resigned from the VI Legislature on September 26th, 2008 to take over some of Mr. Johnson's previous responsibilities. Our trust has been breached. Will Mr. Ottley restore that trust, or will it be "business as usual?"

Thankful for Being a Virgin Islander!

Today, we celebrate Thanksgiving. This holiday has come to mean many things to many people. As Virgin Islanders, we are not really connected to the "historical" reasons for this holiday. However, as everyone else - we do have reasons to be thankful, right? Or do we...

Thanksgiving Canceled in the St. Thomas - St. John?

I just eneded a phone call with my mom where she said: "Right now, we don't know if we'll be able to cook Thanksgiving dinner." Wow!

Are you being affected? What would you do?

Senior Government Officials in the VI Running for Cover!?

Corruption and graft abound in the Virgin Islands. It seems as if there's always a story of some official using his/her position for self-benefit. Charges of kickbacks, meet-and-greets with local Government officials, and cash with "an expected cut in future business deals" all cast a cloud of conspiracy over our leaders, both locally and in Washington, DC.

Could the Virgin Islands be Embarking on the Course to Financial Disaster?

Now maybe this is naive, but I seem to see parallels. As a mortgage backed security relies on an assumed increase in housing values, a gross-receipts tax bond relies on an increase (or at least stability) in gross-receipts taxes collected. But, with the economy in such disarray should the Virgin Islands rely on an assumed gross-receipts tax value?

If Government Capital Must Be Invested...Make it for Infrastructure Development!

In these tight economic times, we're witnessing something tremendously ironic: those who have been against "hand-outs" for individuals facing hard times are demanding similar-type "hand-outs" for corporations. In the name of Economic Development or Economic Stimulus, corporations are lining up for money to either prop up their businesses or salvage them.

Dilapidated Infrastructure and Ignored Issues

There are software packages so out of date that the manufacturer no longer supports them. The consultant who inspected the facilities also said things are so bad that Vitelco has "even failed to do routing maintenance like clearing bush from around telephone poles."

The Obama Phenomenon and the Virgin Islands

President-Elect Barack Obama stated that he "was never the likeliest candidate for this office. (Presidency)" His journey was one that was enormously difficult. His victory was something that no one thought possible. And, the reality of his coming presidency gives us all hope that the American Dream is still alive - and available to us all. This is the "Obama Phenomenon."

Leadership that is LONG Overdue...

Over the past few months, you and I have engaged in a dialogue about the issues facing the Virgin Islands - mostly surrounding "the struggle for self-government." Using that framework, together we have established a rough definition of "the true Virgin Islander." As we discussed, the true Virgin Islander is someone who is fighting for the VI and understands the role of a constitution.

What Are Your Thoughts on the Logo Improvements?

We took your comments into account and have improved the logo. I think this is a lot better, and want to hear your thoughts.

From Mecca To Obscurity & Obama vs. DeJongh

For as long as I can remember, the Virgin Islands economy has been almost wholly dependent upon tourism. It seems dangerous to be in this position. And, this danger is only highlighted by the economic crisis, even higher airline tickets, changing passport regulations and overall decrease in travel.

Virgin Islanders Are Not People!?

I know you're offended by my title, but Virgin Islanders are not people! That's not my word...not my interpretation. That's what the U.S. Congress says.

Voting Rights: The "Change We Need" to Put Our "Country First"

All of you know we lack Voting Rights. Something purely fundamental to the idea of Democracy, and the quintessential to protecting the inalienable rights endowed us by our Creator is denied Virgin Islanders. Some have asked me that we seize this opportunity to make our voices heard. So, we will be holding our own election on Virgin Islands Watch!

What do You Think of This Logo?

We are Virgin Islanders! Let me hear your thoughts! Hiding behind the side of the mountain, the snake says (to me) that the VI seems peacefull, tranquil and welcoming. But, should you tread on us, we are lethal.

Organizing for Hurricane Omar

Question: do any of you have (or know of) a VI based or run Foundation designed to help in these sorts of instances?

If so, please let's begin the discussion and be ready to help. In the meantime, please be sure to keep our homeland in your prayers.

The True Virgin Islander

Who is the true Virgin Islander? And, what should be the benchmark of our definition. Again, I look to our colonial master for the example. How did the modern term "American" come to be defined?

Did You Know? UN Committee on Decolonization Addresses VI Issues

Searching through the news on our site (below - sidebar), I found this article that you should find interesting. The Fourth Committee is a "Special Political & Decolonization" committee of the United Nations. One purpose of the Fourth Committee is to handle Decolonization matters. In a recent meeting, the committee heard dozens of petitioners from Gibraltar, Guam, Western Sahara and the US Virgin Islands. In the world's eye, all of these places - including the Virgin Islands - are regarded as Non-Self-Governing Territories where colonialism still lingers.

What Do You Like Best?

What do you like about Virgin Islands Watch? What do you dislike? What would you like to see more of? What would make you a "daily visitor" of this blog? What types of articles/postings would encourage you to forward the blog to your other VI friends?

More on Schnieder Hospital Scandal

Question: does anyone understand Francis Jackson's role in this? In this article, he's listed as one who signed off on the corporate resolution from the hospital's board that enabled these folk to set up an account at Scotia Bank. But, he's not - apparently - being charged with anything. I'm not saying he should be; I'm trying to clarify why he's not.

Come Out for the Virgin Islands!

Listen to Bambu Station here.

Something to Think About this Election Season

Is that right? Should that be? Maybe it would be better for all of our youth studying on the mainland to register over there and then return home keeping their stateside registrations? Seems crazy, right?

ACTION ALERT - Demand Answers from WAPA

Everyone who has family in the VI - please sign the petition to assist in getting the powers that be to do something about the high cost of energy on the islands.

Is the VI Government Keeping WAPA in the Dark Ages, and Your Utility Bills High?

Where else can you find a utility system so subpar? Yet while the people suffer from high priced, low quality service, the Government of the Virgin Islands shirks its responsibility to pay its bills. While the people can't enjoy a day of outtage free service, the Government of the Virgin islands has proposed no plan to rapidly enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of WAPA.

For the Homeland

I recently had an argument with some members of the Virgin Islands Republican Party. Certain members had the audacity to be racially insensitive, and then intellectually oblivious. Instead of embracing the Virgin Islands Community, they choose to remain separate from the majority - confining themselves to a country club of sorts, organized for their own self benefit.

Holding Their Feet to the Fire

There's much to be gleaned from the current economic crisis, and untold sums ($700 Billion and rising) it will cost the American Taxpayer to clean up a mess they didn't (really) create. Yet, we see in our own Virgin Islands preparations are being made that could put us on the same dastardly course.

It's Not Over! This Fish Farm Still Lives!

Senator Jn. Baptiste's office informed me that the bill is not dead. They said that the Senator will be working with his colleagues to address their concerns. His hope is to still pass this bill and use $34 Million of YOUR money to prop up a business that - at best estimates - will provide 300 jobs to the Virgin Islands. Honestly, if it's about the 300 jobs, it would be cheaper to take 300 people and give them $75 - $100 thousand each.

You Did It! Congratulate Yourself...

It turns out that I'm not the only one who felt this crap was ridiculous! Thank God!!!

According to an Associated Press article, the Virgin Islands Legislature denied Crucian Holdings LLC's request for $34 Million dollars to start their fish farm on St. Croix. But, it ain't over! We must remain vigilant! As the article says:

The Virgin Islands Senate voted 8-2 Thursday to send the loan request back to a committee. Senators questioned whether the fish farm could really pay back the loan in three years.

So, this mess is not over. And while Crucian Holdings LLC says they are "considering several options," I don't believe them...do you?

Why is it so Hard? Are we Incompotent?

Before the US Constitution, the settlers were no more than subjects of the Crown. It was not until drafting the Declaration of Independence that they began the process of becoming American. And, not until drafting the US Constitution did they solidify their standing as Americans.

The Struggle for Self-Government

Did you know that we are not fully protected by the Constitution? As "essentially" a colony, the Virgin Islands clearly lacks self-government. And, without self-government we lack Liberty! Without full constitutional protections, the responsibility lies with us to order our own affairs.

Am I the Only One Who Finds this stuff CRAZY?!

Question: Should the Virgin Islands Senators be sponsoring and the Legislature be passing bills to specifically (and solely) benefit a special interest? Did we not learn from the ordeal with Jeffery Prosser and Innovative Communications?

Does the Virgin Islands Flag Call for Revolution?!

The Role of a Constitution

As Jacob G. Hornberger said: "a constitution has a dual purpose: to call into existence a government but, at the same time, to limit the powers of that government." Therefore, without a constitution we could say that a people do not have a government. Or, we could say that, that people do not have any way to limit the powers of government.

Do Virgin Islanders Deserve a Constitution?

The Source describes a plenary session of delegates to discuss constitutional provisions to construct the Board of Education in the Virgin Islands. What?! Yes, they are drafting text to outline what the Board of Education should look like - in a constitutional document.

RNC Convention Recap

There were some of us who were so busy flag-waving and screaming that we didn't make any headway for the Virgin Islands. For some of us, it was simply the benefit of hobnobbing for hobnobbing's sake.

Give Us Our Space - Respect Our Place

As we stood in the designated spot for the US Virgin Islands on the Convention Floor, our area became inundated by the press. Our location was directly in front of the "VIP Section," and the press was hoping to garner great shots of Sarah Palin's family.

Campaign for Liberty and the VI Constitution

I cannot help but think: In the Virgin Islands, we don't even have a constitution! By that standard, we Virgin Islanders have no liberty. We are subject to government tyranny and corruption with no recourse to end the plunder. The Government runs rampant, stealing money here and cutting deals there, while "We the People" - we the Virgin Islanders - are left defenseless.

The Virgin Islands in the RNC 2008 Platform

The platform section is called, "Working with Americans in the Territories." I present it to you on this blog for your analysis and feedback. Your questions and comments may help me address my comments and questions appropriately, while here at the Convention.

Fighting for the VI

At the RNC Convention today in Minnesota, I was interviewed by KCRW 89.9fm (Santa Monica, CA) Producer, Christian Bordal. Tell me what you think!

Seeking Full Citizenship for Virgin Islanders

Today, I am off to the Republican National Convention. We have been working tirelessly to make arrangements to meet with our fellow Colonial Subjects from Guam, American Samoa, the Northern Marian Islands, Puerto Rico and the District of Columbia. Our hope is that we can gain support of leading Republicans to support and promote the full citizenship of Virgin Islanders.

VI Athletes Not Capitalizing

Now, I don't want to take anything away from his performance. He didn't win, he didn't place. But, he did make it to the Olympics - and that's more than I can say for myself.

Quick Tidbit of VI Pride!

Did you see the VI Plate on the screen at MSNBC during Biden's speech? If they post a picture, I'll try to put it up here. If you find the picture, let me know so it can be uploaded!

For the Perfectionist in You...

Maybe the new graduates can apply for a proofreading job?

Do you see the error in this picture? Do you sense the irony? Could this be why we're in such want?

Lack of Oversight with Schneider Regional Medical Center

I'm sure by now you've heard of the egregious violations of the Board and Leadership at the Schneider Regional Medical Center on St. Thomas. More than $1.8 million of taxpayer money was transfered to the personal account of Rodney Miller between March and November of 2007. Between 2002 and 2007, Mr. Miller was paid $1.3 million more than his allotted for in his contract. Other hospital executives, Amos Carty, Jr. and Peter Najawicz received overpayments of $456,000.00 between 2005 and 2007.