Hundreds came together on Sunday, 2nd March to witness a grand celebration by local and locally connected artistes’ in a concert to honour the life of the Virgin Islands first Chief Minister, Hamilton Lavity Stoutt.
There were performances of his favourite songs, while songs written specifically to honour him at this event were also performed.
Alongside stage performers, there were video presentations, and tributes reflecting on the life of the visionary leader who believed in education and development of the Virgin Islands and its people. Special mentions and presentations of awards to recipients were also made by the Premier, Honourable Dr. Natalio Wheatley.
Following the concert, the Territory observed H. Lavity Stoutt Day on March 3 with the traditional laying of wreaths at the late Chief Minister’s gravesite.
Three Wreaths were laid, the first by Premier Honourable Dr, Natalio Wheatley, the second by the leader of the Opposition Honourable Ronnie Skelton and the third by his daughter Ms. Peggy Stoutt.
H. Lavity Stoutt’s birthday is observed on 7th March. The Virgin Islands, in keeping the tradition and preserving the icons of its culture honoured the memory of this visionary in grand style, celebrating his life, legacy and deep impact on the people of the Virgin Islands to this date.
The H. Lavity Stoutt Commemorative Committee, the Government of the Virgin Islands and the people of the Territory, are committed to continually honour the stalwarts of history, culture and nation building, through collaborative celebrations.
List of Honourees:
Mrs. Janis Braithwaite-Edwards
Mrs. Eugenie Donovan-Glasgow
Mrs. Phyllis George
Mr. Russell Harrigan
Mrs. Beverly Hodge Smith
Mrs. Carolyn Stoutt Igwe
Mrs. Brenda Lettsome-Tye
Ms. Bernadine Walters Louis
Ms. Anne Lennard
Mrs. Eileene L. Parsons, OBE
Mrs. Gwendolyn Rubaine
Mr. Elmore Stoutt, OBE
Ms. Peggy Stoutt
Dr. Charles Wheatley, OBE
Mrs, Wisteria Donovan
Honourable Lorna G. Smith, OBE
Ms. Sandra I. Ward
Mr. Linton Leonard
Mr. Ivor Fraser
Dr. Allison Flax Archer
Ms. Janice Stoutt
Dr. Lavon Chalwell-Brewley
Dr. Angel Smith
Honourable Vincent Wheatley
Mr. Theodore James
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