Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett, who represents the U.S. Virgin Islands, this week presented a U.S. flag that flew over the United States Capitol to Raymond Williams and his family, of Grove Place in USVI, in recognition of their long-standing dedication to preserving Virgin Islands history and culture.
The honor highlights the family’s decades of work through the Grove Place Action Committee, particularly their efforts in organizing Liberty Day and D. Hamilton Jackson Day celebrations.
David Hamilton Jackson was a pioneering labor leader, civil rights advocate, educator, and newspaper editor from the Danish West Indies (now the U.S. Virgin Islands). He played a crucial role in advocating for the rights of the islands’ predominantly Black population during Danish colonial rule and is considered one of the most important figures in Virgin Islands history.
Originally intended for presentation during the 2024 Liberty Day ceremony, the flag was instead handed over in a special ceremony after the event was canceled due to inclement weather.
“Raymond and the Williams family embody the spirit of service and cultural preservation that makes our Virgin Islands community so special,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “His family’s work with the Grove Place Action Committee ensure that the stories and struggles of our ancestors, particularly the legacy of D. Hamilton Jackson, will never be forgotten. This flag represents not just the gratitude of Congress, but the appreciation of an entire community that benefited from his and his family’s dedication.”
Williams and his family have been central to Liberty Day observances honoring D. Hamilton Jackson, a pioneering labor leader.
The flag presented to the Williams family flew over the U.S. Capitol on November 1, 2024—Liberty Day in the Virgin Islands—at Plaskett’s request. It commemorates Jackson’s legacy and the ongoing contributions of community leaders like Williams in upholding the territory’s cultural identity and quest for self-determination.
