CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT COMMEMORATES D. HAMILTON JACKSON DAY— “LIBERTY DAY”—IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

November 1, 2025 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT COMMEMORATES D. HAMILTON JACKSON DAY- "LIBERTY DAY"-IN THE VIRGIN ISLANDS

U.S. Virgin Islands - Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement in recognition of Liberty Day, also known as D. Hamilton Jackson Day or the beloved "Bull and Bread" celebration, observed annually on November 1st in the U.S. Virgin Islands:

"Each year, Virgin Islanders gather to commemorate the life and legacy of David Hamilton Jackson - a teacher, labor leader, newspaper editor, and civil rights advocate whose courage, and leadership forever changed the course of our history.

"In 1915, Jackson traveled to Denmark to advocate for the repeal of restrictive laws that prohibited independent newspapers in the then-Danish West Indies. Upon his return to St. Croix, he established The Herald, the first free press publication in our islands. This monumental act ushered in a new era of liberty and empowerment for our people.

"The community celebration that followed - a day of speeches, fellowship, and the sharing of bread and roast bull - gave birth to the tradition we know today as 'Bull and Bread Day.' It remains a cherished Virgin Islands holiday, reminding us that freedom of expression, workers' rights, and self-determination are the cornerstones of a just society.

"David Hamilton Jackson's advocacy extended far beyond press freedom. He founded the first labor union in the Virgin Islands and fought tirelessly for fair wages, better working conditions, and dignity for every worker. His legacy continues to inspire generations of Virgin Islanders to stand boldly for equality and justice.

"As your Representative in Congress, I remain committed to carrying forward the values that Jackson embodied - the pursuit of equity, the defense of free speech, and the advancement of opportunity for all. On this Liberty Day, I urge each of us to honor his memory by investing in our young people, supporting fair labor practices, and strengthening the institutions that give voice to our communities.

"May this Liberty Day serve as a reminder that our freedom was hard-won - and that it is our shared responsibility to preserve and expand it for generations to come."

Background:
David Hamilton Jackson (1884-1946) was born on St. Croix in the Danish West Indies. A teacher, advocate, and community leader, he was instrumental in securing freedom of the press, forming the first labor union in the Territory, and promoting workers' rights and civic engagement. His efforts laid the foundation for the modern Virgin Islands labor movement and for a free and informed society.

The Virgin Islands Legislature designated November 1st as Liberty Day in 1981 to honor Jackson's historic achievements. Each year, residents across the Territory - particularly on St. Croix - gather for the traditional "Bull and Bread" celebration at Grove Place, featuring cultural performances, speeches, and community fellowship in remembrance of his contributions to freedom and justice in the Virgin Islands.

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