Plaskett, Stacey RSS Articles

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO HONOR VIRGIN ISLANDS MUSIC LEGEND PETER G. THURLAND, SR.

Fri, 03 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
April 3, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT INTRODUCES LEGISLATION TO HONOR VIRGIN ISLANDS MUSIC LEGEND
PETER G. THURLAND, SR.

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-USVI) shared the following statement on the introduction of H.R. 8121, legislation to designate the Christiansted Bandstand, located on St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, as the ''Peter G. Thurland, Sr., Bandstand'':

"Peter G. Thurland, Sr. was a giant in the St. Croix community as a master craftsman, a dedicated musician, a proud veteran, and a tireless champion of the arts. He helped build the Christiansted Bandstand with his own hands, performed there throughout his military service, and spent decades ensuring the next generation of Virgin Islands musicians had a stage on which to shine. It is a profound honor to introduce this legislation to permanently affix his name to a landmark he helped create and loved deeply."

Born on February 19, 1892, in Christiansted, St. Croix, Peter Gregory Thurland, Sr. was a celebrated trombone and baritone horn player who devoted his life to musical excellence. Shortly after the transfer of the Virgin Islands from Denmark to the United States, Mr. Thurland joined the United States Navy on June 12, 1917, serving as a proud member of the Navy Band. He was instrumental in the construction and design of the Christiansted Bandstand, where he performed with the Christiansted Naval Band until his honorable discharge in September 1921.

In 1938, Mr. Thurland founded the St. Croix Community Band, training generations of young musicians who performed free monthly concerts at the Christiansted Bandstand — a gift to the community that endured for three decades. He led the band until 1968, when he passed the baton to his son upon retiring for health reasons. Widely revered across the Virgin Islands as a master craftsman and skilled cabinetmaker, Mr. Thurland's contributions to the cultural and civic life of St. Croix remain immeasurable.

“The Thurland family is honored with the naming of the Christiansted Bandstand for our grandfather Peter G. Thurland Sr,” said Karen Thurland, granddaughter of Mr. Peter G. Thurland, Sr. “Not only was he part of the building of the bandstand with the Christiansted enlisted U.S. Navy men, he also played with the Christiansted Industrial Brass Band at the transfer ceremony on the Christiansted Wharf on March 31, 1917. Peter G. Thurland Sr., besides being a musician was a master joiner, educator, family man who made many contributions to the St. Croix community.”

Congresswoman Plaskett continued, "I am proud to introduce this legislation, which was first championed by Congressman Ron de Lugo in the 103rd Congress. The Christiansted Bandstand is more than a landmark — it is a living testament of St. Croix's rich cultural heritage. Renaming it in honor of Peter G. Thurland, Sr. ensures that every resident and visitor knows the name of one of our island's most beloved sons. I am committed to advancing this bill through the legislative process."

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT JOINS TERRITORIAL LEADERS BEFORE SUPREME COURT IN FIGHT TO AFFIRM BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP PROTECTIONS AS ORAL ARGUMENTS CONCLUDE IN TRUMP V. BARBARA

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

April 1, 2026 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT JOINS TERRITORIAL LEADERS BEFORE SUPREME COURT IN FIGHT TO AFFIRM BIRTHRIGHT CITIZENSHIP PROTECTIONS AS ORAL ARGUMENTS CONCLUDE IN TRUMP V. BARBARA

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) released the following statement after the U.S. Supreme Court heard oral arguments today in Trump v. Barbara, a landmark case in which she joined current and former elected officials and judges from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa in filing an amicus brief urging the Court to affirm that birthright citizenship is a constitutional guarantee that no executive order can override.

At the center of this case is whether the Trump administration can rewrite the meaning of the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause to deny birthright citizenship to children born in the United States to certain immigrant parents? The amicus brief, signed by leaders across the political spectrum with varying views on territorial status, makes clear that whatever their differences, they stand united against any executive branch attempt to unilaterally redefine who counts as a citizen.

The brief draws a troubling comparison to the period following the Spanish-American War of 1898, when the McKinley administration tried to redefine "in the United States" to exclude people born in Puerto Rico, Guam, and other newly acquired territories. The Supreme Court's deference to the political branches on that question gave rise to the Insular Cases — a legal framework that left millions of territorial residents with statutory, rather than constitutionally protected, citizenship. The effects of that decision are still being felt today.

American Samoans, for example, are still classified under federal law as "non-citizen" U.S. nationals — a designation that has cost people military security clearances, created wrongful voter registration complications, and blocked full civic participation. The brief warns that allowing the administration's executive order to stand would deepen that history, handing the executive branch sweeping power over one of the most fundamental rights guaranteed by the Constitution.

"For the people of the U.S. Territories, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, this fight is deeply personal. For generations, we have struggled to have our citizenship and our rights fully recognized. The Supreme Court's long avoidance of the birthright citizenship question in the territories has left our residents in an unacceptable state of legal limbo — and now we are watching that same dangerous logic weaponized to strip citizenship from children born on American soil. The Fourteenth Amendment is unambiguous: Those born under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the United States are Americans. No executive order can change that. The Constitution does not bend to the political preferences of any administration, and no president holds the power to rewrite it by executive order. I am proud to stand alongside leaders across our territories to make that case before the Supreme Court on April 1st," said Congresswoman Stacey Plaskett.

BACKGROUND: The amicus brief was coordinated by Right to Democracy, co-founded by Neil C. Weare, and filed on February 26, 2026, by co-counsel Patricio Martinez Llompart and the team at KKL LLP. The signatures urge the Court not to repeat the errors of the past by deferring to the political branches on the scope of the Citizenship Clause. Instead, they call on the Court to affirm, unambiguously, that birthright citizenship is a constitutional right — one that belongs to all persons born under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of the United States, and right that cannot be narrowed by executive or legislative action.

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES OFFICE CLOSURES FOR EASTER HOLIDAY

Wed, 01 Apr 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

April 1, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ANNOUNCES OFFICE CLOSURES FOR EASTER HOLIDAY

U.S. Virgin Islands — In observance of the Easter holiday, the Washington, D.C., St. Croix, and St. Thomas offices of Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett will be closed on Thursday, April 2, and Friday, April 3, 2026. Offices will reopen on Monday, April 6, 2026.

"As we enter this Easter weekend, I extend my warmest wishes to all who are celebrating across our territory and beyond. Whether you are gathering with family, attending church services, or participating in the many cherished community traditions that make this season so meaningful in the Virgin Islands, I hope this time brings you renewal, reflection, and joy.

"Easter is a season of hope, and hope is something our territory has always held close, through every challenge and every triumph. To our families, our faith communities, and everyone who calls the Virgin Islands home, may this weekend be a time of peace, gratitude, and togetherness.

"I wish you and your family a blessed Easter."

For non-urgent matters, please email the offices or call after office reopening. For assistance, please call 202-225-1790 (Washington, D.C.), 340-778-5900 (St. Croix), or 340-774-4408 (St. Thomas). Messages left will be responded to when the offices reopen on Monday, April 6, 2026.

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO BORDER PATROL ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS ON ST. CROIX; CALLS FOR DIGNITY AND RESPECT FOR ALL RESIDENTS

Thu, 19 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
March 19, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO BORDER PATROL ENFORCEMENT ACTIONS ON ST. CROIX; CALLS FOR DIGNITY AND RESPECT FOR ALL RESIDENTS

ST. CROIX, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) today issued the following statement regarding enforcement actions conducted by Border Patrol agents on St. Croix on March 19, 2026:

"My office has received reports and video footage from community members regarding Border Patrol enforcement actions taking place on St. Croix. My team and I have investigated the matter with the appropriate authorities and can confirm that these actions were conducted by Border Patrol agents with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and are part of an initiative allegedly targeting individuals with criminal records.

"I am deeply concerned by these enforcement actions and the manner in which they were carried out. Regardless of the stated purpose of any federal initiative, I want to be clear: all agents — regardless of their designation — must treat our residents with dignity and respect. The safety and wellbeing of all Virgin Islands residents remain a priority, and I am committed to ensuring that any federal enforcement activities are conducted lawfully and with full respect for the dignity and rights of our residents.

"I urge all Virgin Islands residents to know their rights when interacting with immigration enforcement. My office has 'Know Your Rights' information, which has been distributed in the community and on social media, available in English, Haitian Creole, and Spanish to help community members understand their legal protections during encounters with federal agents. Regardless of immigration status, you have constitutional protections. I want to remind everyone in the community that in the United States, being present in the country without the appropriate documentation is a civil matter, not a criminal one.

"My team and I will continue to closely monitor the situation for any significant or increased presence of Department of Homeland Security agents on St. Croix. We will keep the public apprised of any developments. If you experience concerning interactions with federal enforcement or need assistance understanding your rights as an immigrant, please do not hesitate to contact my office. We are here to serve you.

“Throughout my time in Congress, I have championed comprehensive, compassionate immigration reform - including proudly cosponsoring the American Dream and Promise Act. Recently, I joined my colleague Congressman Jimmy Gomez (CA) in supporting the Make Housing Affordable and Defend Democracy Act (H.R.6390), which redirect the $175 billion allocated to ICE funding, DHS raids, and border militarization toward housing relief, including benefiting first-time homebuyers, working and middle-class renters, and extremely low-income households.

“Scripture reminds us: “When a foreigner resides among you in your land,
do not mistreat them. The foreigner residing among you must be treated
as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in
Egypt.” — Leviticus 19:33–34.

This ancient call to compassion is not merely a moral aspiration, it is the standard by which we must measure our treatment of every person who calls these islands home or who seeks safety and dignity within our community. I call on all federal agents operating in our territory to act accordingly”

My offices are located at 60 King Street on St. Croix and at 9100 Port of Sale Mall, Port Havensight on St. Thomas and can be contacted at 340-778-5900 (STX) and 340-774-4408 (STT/STJ).

To access the Know Your Rights flyers, please visit plaskett.house.gov or any of the congressional offices on St. Thomas or St. Croix.

Know Your Immigration Rights

Conozca Sus Derechos de Inmigración

Konnen Dwa Imigrasyon W Yo

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Pictured here: Congresswoman Plaskett pictured with other members of Congress at a 2022 press conference on immigration.

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CAUTIONS VIRGIN ISLANDERS AGAINST SOCIAL SECURITY CARD SCAMS

Tue, 17 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland

March 17, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT CAUTIONS VIRGIN ISLANDERS AGAINST SOCIAL SECURITY CARD SCAMS

U.S. Virgin Islands — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-USVI) is urging residents of the U.S. Virgin Islands to be on high alert after the Social Security Administration (SSA) Office of the Inspector General (OIG) issued a national scam warning to remind the public that new and replacement Social Security cards are provided at no cost. Numerous fraudulent websites and impersonators are currently charging fees for services that the federal government provides for free.

The SSA provides this assistance — for first-time applicants, replacements for lost cards, and name changes — at no charge. Residents are encouraged to visit SSA's official website at ssa.gov/number-card or call 1-800-772-1213 for assistance. Eligible individuals may also create a personal my Social Security account at ssa.gov/myaccount to apply for a replacement card online.

"I want every Virgin Islander to know that you should never have to pay for a Social Security card — not a new one, not a replacement, not for any reason," said Congresswoman Plaskett. "Scammers are actively targeting communities throughout the country with false claims about Social Security card fees. I urge all Virgin Islanders to go directly to the official SSA website or call their hotline, and to avoid third-party websites that may seek to steal your money or your personal information."

The SSA OIG has cautioned the public to be wary of imposter websites and fraudulent social media accounts designed to collect sensitive personal information, including Social Security numbers, birthdates, and credit card information. Section 1140 of the Social Security Act explicitly prohibits misleading SSA-related communications and restricts charging for services the SSA provides for free. Violators are subject to financial penalties.

Congresswoman Plaskett urges all residents to keep the following steps in mind:

Pause. If you receive an unexpected call, text, email, letter, or social media message, be skeptical. Think: is this a scam?
Protect. Guard your personal and financial information. Talk to someone you trust before sharing sensitive details or making any payment.
Report. Visit ssa.gov/scam to report suspected Social Security-related scams. Follow SSA OIG on Facebook, X, and LinkedIn for the latest scam alerts. You may also visit the Federal Trade Commission at ftc.gov for additional consumer protection resources.

"Our seniors, our families, and our most vulnerable residents deserve to access the federal benefits and services they are entitled to without fear of exploitation," Congresswoman Plaskett concluded. "I will always fight to ensure that Virgin Islanders are informed, protected, and empowered. If you or someone you know believes they have been targeted by one of these scams, please report it immediately and do not provide any further personal information."

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO ST. JOHN EXTENDED POWER OUTAGE

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
March 16, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT RESPONDS TO ST. JOHN EXTENDED POWER OUTAGE

St. John, USVI — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) today issued the following statement in response to the extended power outage affecting the island of St. John, which has now exceeded 40 hours:

“We want the people of St. John to know we feel the weight of what you are enduring. More than 40 hours without power is not an inconvenience; it is a crisis,” said Congresswoman Plaskett. “I know what it means to be at home when the lights go out: the isolation, the uncertainty, the fear for elderly neighbors and young children, the medications and food spoiling in refrigerators, the businesses that cannot open, the medical equipment that cannot run. This is an urgent crisis, demanding our full attention.”

The Congresswoman extends her deep gratitude to the line crews and technical workers who have been working around the clock since the outage began: “I want to offer my heartfelt thanks to the WAPA lineworkers and technicians who have not stopped working since this outage began. These men and women are out through the night and into the day, doing everything within their power to restore electricity to our fellow Virgin Islanders on St. John. Their dedication and professionalism in the face of a deeply challenging situation deserves to be recognized.”

Reports have emerged suggesting that the outage may have resulted from deliberate tampering with WAPA’s electrical infrastructure.

“If it is determined that someone intentionally tampered and caused the outage, it is my hope that the appropriate authorities will hold those responsible to the fullest extent of the law. An attack on our electrical infrastructure is an attack on our people. It should not go unaddressed.”

The Congresswoman also acknowledged the community support efforts underway in response to the outage. Love City Strong case managers have been actively reaching out to individuals on their high-risk list. The majority of residents Love City Strong has connected with have confirmed contingency plans are in place. Residents who feel they may need additional support are encouraged to self-identify by contacting the Love City Strong office at 340-714-7744 or via email at info@lovecitystrongvi.org, where staff will assess their situation and provide a vulnerability rating. Those identified as high-risk will be proactively contacted during future emergencies.

The Congresswoman also acknowledged ongoing discussions about battery storage and alternative energy solutions for St. John: “I am aware of the battery storage and alternative energy initiatives that have been planned and discussed for St. John. I remain a strong advocate for moving those projects forward with speed and seriousness. Realistically, a battery system would not have been able to carry an entire island through a 40-plus-hour outage of this magnitude, but it would have provided meaningful, critical relief in the earliest hours.

“The United States Virgin Islands deserves a resilient, modern, and reliable electrical grid. Our people deserve energy security. I will continue to fight for our people, and work with every available partner to bring the investment and infrastructure to our territory that our people have long been promised and have always deserved. We will get there. When we do, the strength of our community that we see now, in the way neighbors are looking out for one another across St. John will be the foundation we build upon.”

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ON THE PASSING OF VIRGIN ISLANDS SOURCE REPORTER SUSAN ELLIS

Mon, 09 Mar 2026 04:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

March 9, 2026 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT ON THE PASSING OF VIRGIN ISLANDS SOURCE REPORTER SUSAN ELLIS

U.S. Virgin Islands — It is with deep sadness that Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett mourns the passing of Susan Ellis, a dedicated journalist and beloved member of the U.S. Virgin Islands community who served for many years as a reporter both with the St. Croix Avis and the Virgin Islands Source.

"The Virgin Islands has lost a tireless voice—one that told our stories with care, accuracy, and a deep commitment to truth. Susan Ellis was more than a reporter; she was a chronicler of our community. For years, she showed up, to the legislative hearings, the community events, the moments big and small—because she understood that the people of these islands deserved to see themselves reflected in a free and independent press. Susan was passionate in her advocacy for healthcare in the Virgin Islands--particularly mental health--agriculture and animal welfare.

"I had the privilege of working alongside Susan in my capacity as Congresswoman for the Virgin Islands, and I always found her to be thorough, fair, and deeply invested in the wellbeing of this territory. She asked the hard questions because she believed the public deserved honest answers. That is the hallmark of a great journalist, and Susan was exactly that.

"To her daughters, her family, her colleagues at the VI Source, and all who loved her—you are in my thoughts and prayers. The Virgin Islands press community is smaller today, but Susan's legacy will endure in every story she told and every person whose voice she elevated. May she rest in peace and in power."

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HOUSE PASSES PLASKETT-BACKED BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO GUARANTEE IN-STATE TUITION FOR TERRITORIAL STUDENTS

Wed, 04 Mar 2026 05:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

March 4, 2026 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

HOUSE PASSES PLASKETT-BACKED BIPARTISAN LEGISLATION TO GUARANTEE IN-STATE TUITION FOR TERRITORIAL STUDENTS

Washington, D.C. — Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett (D-VI) released the following statement after the U.S. House of Representatives passed the Territorial Student Access to Higher Education Act, bipartisan legislation that guarantees in-state tuition rates for students from the U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, the Northern Mariana Islands, and American Samoa. The bill, led by the territorial Members, passed the House floor today following debate and a full vote, marking a historic milestone in the decades-long fight to expand affordable higher education access for territorial students pursuing degrees on the mainland.

The legislation amends the Higher Education Act of 1965 to require public institutions receiving federal funds to charge eligible territorial residents no more than the in-state tuition rate. Out-of-state tuition can be two to three times higher than in-state rates, representing a significant deterrent for families who already face higher costs of living, limited degree options on-island and the added burden of long-distance relocation.

"Today is a historic day for students and families across the U.S. territories," said Congresswoman Plaskett. "Since my first term in office, I have advocated for legislation to expand in-state tuition access for students in the Virgin Islands and the other U.S. territories. In 2022, I secured a provision in the Build Back Better Act, which passed in the U.S. House of Representatives, that would have established a college access grants program to cover the difference between in-state and out-of-state tuition rates for students from the territories. Today, the House has spoken clearly: our students deserve the same educational opportunities and pathways to success as their peers in the states. Guaranteeing in-state tuition is essential to reducing the burden of student debt and opening doors to the careers and training needed to strengthen our local economies. I am proud to have fought alongside my colleagues to advance this legislation, and I urge the Senate to act swiftly so that we can deliver this long-overdue relief to territorial students and families."

“The passage of H.R. 6472 marks a significant step toward ensuring true parity for American students living in the territories,” Congressman Moylan (R-GU) said. “Too many of our students leave home to pursue degrees that simply aren’t available locally, and too often the financial burden places that opportunity further out of reach for hardworking families. This measure strengthens the pipeline of skilled professionals who will help build a stronger, more resilient Guam. It’s about empowering our youth to pursue their dreams without being priced out of them, and ensuring that when they return home, they are ready to lead the next chapter of Guam’s growth.”

“This is great news for our students, and a successful bipartisan collaboration. Our students deserve the best possible access to four-year University degrees. Millions of American students benefit from in-state tuition, and this innovative bill extends this sensible policy to the islands. Thank you to each of my colleagues. With passage by the full House, we’re a big step closer to fairness, and making a major difference in opportunity for our students,” said Congresswoman Amata Coleman Radewagen (R-AS).

“Students from the Northern Mariana Islands bring talent, dedication, and a strong commitment to their education when they pursue opportunities across the United States. H.R. 6472 helps expand access to affordable higher education by allowing students from U.S. territories to qualify for in-state tuition rates at public colleges and universities. For many CNMI families, higher education requires significant sacrifice, and this bipartisan legislation helps open more doors for our students while strengthening pathways to build the skilled workforce our islands and our nation need," said Congresswoman Kimberlyn King-Hinds (R-MP).

"I want to thank Congressman Moylan for his leadership on this issue, as well as Congresswoman Radewagen, Congressman Hernández, and Congresswoman King-Hinds for their steadfast partnership in this fight for educational equity," Congresswoman Plaskett concluded. "I also extend my gratitude to Chairman Walberg, Ranking Member Scott, and every Member of the House of Representatives who voted to advance this critical legislation. Our work is not finished—this bill now moves to the U.S. Senate for consideration, and if passed, it will proceed to the President's desk to be signed into law. I remain fully committed to seeing this bill across the finish line, ensuring that Virgin Islands students and all territorial students finally have the same access to affordable higher education as their peers across this nation."

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON PASSING OF CIVIL RIGHTS ICON REVEREND JESSE LOUIS JACKSON SR.

Wed, 18 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Alayah Phipps

February 18, 2026 202-813-2793

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT EXPRESSES CONDOLENCES ON PASSING OF CIVIL RIGHTS ICON REVEREND JESSE LOUIS JACKSON SR.

Washington, D.C.— Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett released the following statement on the passing of Civil Rights leader and founder of the Rainbow PUSH Coalition, the Honorable Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr.:

"Today, our nation mourns the loss of a giant. During Black History Month, we honor the life of Reverend Jesse Louis Jackson Sr., who dedicated his life to the fight for justice, equality, and human dignity. His voice and moral courage shaped the soul of our nation and losing him during Black History Month reminds us that the leaders who made history walked among us, and their work is now ours.

“Through Operation Breadbasket and later the Rainbow PUSH Coalition—a movement he created that transformed how America approaches civil rights—Reverend Jackson channeled the cry for justice into action. He pressured corporate boardrooms, securing diplomatic victories, and opened doors for generations to come. His historic presidential campaigns as a Democratic candidate in 1984 and 1988 shattered barriers, winning 13 primaries and caucuses and showed America what was possible. He paved the path for the election of President Barack Obama and for so many of us who serve in Congress today.

“For the Congressional Black Caucus and the Congressional Black Caucus Foundation, Reverend Jackson was more than a leader—he was a North Star. His mentorship, advocacy, and unwavering commitment to Black political empowerment strengthened our institution and inspired countless members, including many who serve today, to fight for justice with the same moral clarity and courage he embodied.

“His legacy lives in every voter registration drive, every march for economic justice, and every movement that demanded the voiceless be heard. He mobilized millions, transformed the political landscape, and inspired generations of leaders—including many of us who now serve in Congress—to believe that we too could make a difference.

“As the representative of the U.S. Virgin Islands, a territory still fighting for full equality and representation, I am deeply grateful for Reverend Jackson's unwavering commitment to ensuring that all Americans—regardless of where they live, what they look like, or how much money they have—are treated with dignity and have access to opportunity.

“My heartfelt condolences go out to his wife, children, grandchildren, and the entire Jackson family, including my colleague Congressman Jonathan Jackson, who carries his father’s legacy forward in Congress. They shared him with the world, and in return, the world became part of their extended family. May he rest in peace and power.

“Reverend Jackson's work is not finished. It falls to all of us to honor his memory by continuing the fight for the values he lived by—justice, equality, and love. His life reminds us that change is possible when we have the courage to demand it and the determination to see it through. In his most famous words, we will 'Keep Hope Alive!'"

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CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MEETS WITH VIRGIN ISLANDS BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DISCUSS FUTURE OF FEDERAL FUNDING FOR EDUCATION

Sun, 15 Feb 2026 05:00:00 GMT

For Immediate Release Contact: Tionee Scotland
February 15, 2026 202-808-6129

PRESS RELEASE

CONGRESSWOMAN PLASKETT MEETS WITH VIRGIN ISLANDS BOARD OF EDUCATION TO DISCUSS FUTURE OF FEDERAL FUNDING FOR EDUCATION

WASHINGTON, DC — In February of 2026, Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett met with the Virgin Islands Board of Education to discuss the impact of recently enacted federal funding cuts on education in our territory.

The meeting focused on P.L. 119-21, the One Big Beautiful Bill Act, which threatens essential programs and services that thousands of Virgin Islands families depend on every single day.

The budget reconciliation law cuts more than $840 billion from Medicaid and $300 billion from SNAP nationwide—programs that directly determine eligibility for free school meals. Fewer children will qualify for Medicaid and SNAP, putting the Virgin Islands' universal free school lunch program at risk. As fewer children qualify for these programs, our schools risk losing Community Eligibility Provision (CEP) eligibility—jeopardizing free meals for all students at a time when nearly 40% of Virgin Islands households face food insecurity.

The Virgin Islands Department of Education currently manages $115.5 million in federal grants, including funding from the U.S. Department of Education for programs like the Consolidated Grant, Special Education (IDEA), and Adult Education. Nearly $29.4 million comes from the U.S. Department of Agriculture for nutrition programs including the National School Lunch Program, Summer Food Services Program, and Fresh Fruits and Vegetables Program—which also support local farms and producers.

"This is about understanding what is coming and preparing our community," Congresswoman Plaskett said. “This law affects millions of children nationwide, and the Virgin Islands will feel these cuts deeply. When funding for school meals is cut, children lose their ability to focus in the classroom. When SNAP benefits are reduced, families face impossible choices between feeding their children and paying rent. As these changes take effect, no child in the Virgin Islands should go to school hungry, and no family should face these choices alone. We must work together—parents, educators, leaders, and our community—to navigate this reality and protect our children through the challenges ahead."

"The Virgin Islands already operates under different federal funding formulas than the states," said Dr. Kyza Callwood, Virgin Islands Board of Education Chairman. "We have less flexibility, fewer resources, and higher costs. When Washington cuts education and nutrition funding, Virgin Islands children go hungry. When they change SNAP eligibility, Virgin Islands families lose the ability to feed themselves. We cannot and will not accept that."

The urgency is compounded by the Trump administration's sweeping executive actions targeting schools nationwide—launching hundreds of investigations, freezing billions in federal grants, and dismantling the Department of Education itself. Half the Department’s workforce has been fired or departed, and the Office for Civil Rights now dismisses approximately 90% of discrimination complaints without investigation—up from 49% in 2010-2011. These executive actions, combined with the enacted budget cuts, create unprecedented uncertainty for schools and families across the country.

During the meeting, Congresswoman Plaskett and the Virgin Islands Board of Education emphasized the critical importance of parents, students, educators, and community leaders staying informed, advocating boldly, and standing together to protect children and families as these changes take effect.

"This is a defining moment," Congresswoman Plaskett concluded. "When parents, teachers, students, and leaders move together with purpose and clarity, we can effect change. The children of the Virgin Islands are worth that fight."

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St. Thomas Academy Day

Tue, 17 Mar 2020 22:00:00 GMT

St. Thomas Academy Day
March 17, 2020
Earl B. Ottley Hall

St. Croix Academy Day

Wed, 18 Mar 2020 22:00:00 GMT

St. Croix Academy Day
March 17, 2020
UVI Great Hall

2020 Congressional Art Competition

Mon, 04 May 2020 04:00:00 GMT

Each spring, the Congressional Institute sponsors a nationwide high school visual art competition to recognize and encourage artistic talent in the nation and in each congressional district. Since the Artistic Discovery competition began in 1982, more than 650,000 high school students have participated.

Students submit entries to their representative’s office, and panels of district artists select the winning entries. Winners are recognized both in their district and at an annual awards ceremony in Washington, DC. The winning artworks are displayed for one year at the U.S. Capitol.

For more information, please contact our District Offices at 340.774.4408 or 340.778.5900. Artwork submission Deadline: May 4, 2020

USVI Department of Tourism Division of Festivals

Sat, 04 Apr 2020 04:00:00 GMT

The USVI Department of Tourism Division of Festivals recently announced the dates for Carnival Virgin Islands (St. Thomas) from April 4, 2020 through May 3, 2020.

March 7, 2020 - Carnival Kickoff
April 12, 2020 - Prince and Princess Show
April 18, 2020 - Queen Selection Show
April 24, 2020 - Village Opens
April 25, 2020 - Calypso Finals
April 26, 2020 - Motor Sports Sunday Boat Race
April 29, 2020 - Food Fair
April 30, 2020 - J'ouvert/Wet Fete
May 1, 2020 - Children's Parade
May 2, 2020 - Adults' Parade
May 3, 2020 - Fireworks

*More dates to be added to the event schedule*

49th Annual Agriculture & Food Fair

Sat, 15 Feb 2020 14:00:00 GMT

The 49th Annual Agriculture & Food Fair of the US Virgin Islands (AGRIFEST 2020) will be held on St. Croix, USVI from February 15, 2020 through February 17, 2020, 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. Filled with many activities for the entire family, AGRIFEST captures fair goers and non-fair goers alike repeatedly. You cannot afford to miss this year's fair. Come see what it is all about.

Field Hearing on VOTING RIGHTS AND ELECTIONS ADMINISTRATION

Wed, 04 Sep 2019 14:00:00 GMT

The Subcommittee on Elections will be holding a field hearing on Voting Rights and Election Administration at 10:00am on September 4th at the Great Hall on UVI's Albert A. Sheen Campus.

Veterans Office on Your Corner

Sun, 21 Jul 2019 19:00:00 GMT

Designed to make receiving assistance on federal issues easier, Office On Your Corner brings our office to local neighborhoods.

Bring all relevant paperwork that will be needed to open a case.

USDA-NRCS Announces 2020 Sign up for Environmental Quality Incentives Program

Thu, 15 Aug 2019 04:00:00 GMT

Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) is a voluntary conservation program that provides financial and technical assistance to farmers and ranchers to help them install and implement conservation practices on eligible agricultural land.

EQIP applications are accepted year-round, however, NRCS sets application “cut-off” or submission deadlines to evaluate, rank and approve eligible applications. The following are the cut-off dates for fiscal year 2020:

EQIP Period 1 cut-off date: September 20, 2019
EQIP FY 2020 Evaluation and Ranking deadline: January 24, 2020
EQIP FY 2020 Obligation deadline: June 12, 2020

Shifting the Wellness Paradigm

Wed, 10 Apr 2019 12:00:00 GMT

Congresswoman Stacey E. Plaskett will be speaking at the Shifting the Wellness Paradigm event, a conversation on medical cannabis as health and wellness alternative.

Art Competition: Artwork Submission Due

Tue, 23 Apr 2019 20:00:00 GMT

We have started our official count down to the submission of artwork for the 2019 Congressional Art Competition.

St. Croix participants, please drop off Artwork to the Office of Congresswoman Plaskett on 60 King Street, Frederiksted

St. Thomas/St. John participants, please drop off Artwork to the Virgin Islands Council on the Arts (VICA), directly across from the Fort Christian Museum in the Francois Building

Contact Kyza Callwood for more information: kyza.callwood@mail.house.gov 340.514.9318