ROADTOWN Tortola BVI, December 14th, 2011 – The Ministry of Education and Culture has commenced plans to host a Territory-wide competition to create a Territorial song and dress for the Virgin Islands.

This will be done in collaboration with the Department of Culture and a newly formed ad-hoc committee spearheaded by former Culture Minister, Ms. Eileene L. Parsons. Minister for Education and Culture Honourable Myron V. Walwyn told the Department of Information and Public Relations that the Ministry will host a two-month competition which will commence in early 2012.

Minister Walwyn said, “The creation of a territorial song and dress that embodies who we are as a people, will serve to infuse Virgin Islands pride and provide a greater sense of identity.”

He added, “This will help to develop confidence and self worth and build on national unity, identity and culture that will benefit not only present, but future generations of Virgin Islanders.”

The Minister continued, “A free, successful and independent spirit is a trademark of who we are as Virgin Islanders and should be captured in a traditional song and dress that is symbolic and holds meaning for the people. The time is now, for us to acknowledge our rich history and continue to build on the legacy fostered by our forefathers.”

Acknowledging a similar process which began in 2005, Minister Walwyn said, “This new process will allow for entries from a wider base and give previous submissions the opportunity to redefine and submit their work.”

Ms. Parsons in an invited comment to the Department of Information and Public Relations said, “It is time for us as a people to begin to know who we are by our cultural folkways; this includes a territorial song and a territorial dress.”

She added, “It is my hope that this competition would have wide public support as we try to define who we are as a people.”

Following the collection of entries, the Ministry will seek active public participation in deciding the winning submissions.

The development of a Territorial song and dance is in keeping with Government’s commitment to preserve, enhance and promote the Virgin Islands cultural identity.

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