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"Bull and Bread Day" |
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Click to see the larger picture. |
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"Bull and Bread Day""Liberty Day""David Hamilton Jackson Day" |
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The titles above represent the various names given to a holiday that is celebrated each year, November 1st, in Grove Place, St. Croix. This year, 2000, was no different. Music, people and food filled the area with free bull/beef and bread. The bull/beef and bread is traditionally served each year. This tradition started many years ago, by the planters serving beef, while the bread or buns were baked by the laborers. This year a bust of D. Hamilton Jackson was unveiled by Governor Charles W. Turnbull. In addition, incumbent and aspiring political candidates made their wishes known to those who would listen. |
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David Hamilton Jackson |
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David Hamilton Jackson was a politician, educator, lawyer, labor leader, editor, and a judge. He was born on September 28, 1884 in St. Croix. He established the first labor union. Jackson went to Denmark and spoke to the King on behalf of his people. He attempted to convince the King to abolish the control the government had on the press in the islands. He succeeded and published "The Herald" on October 29, 1915. His newspaper represented the views of the laboring class, as well as, an educational resource. During that time, the planters resisted paying appropriate raises. A union was organized and a six week strike took place beginning in January 1915. This unionized job action helped improve wages and working conditions. He assisted the people by advocating in Denmark to transfer the islands from Danish to American rule. When the Virgin Islands were transferred he followed-up by visiting Washington D.C. to protest against naval rule and demanded a civil form of government. His actions influenced the passing of the Organic Act in 1936. Consequently, his many accomplishments has definitely left a mark on the history of the Virgin Islands.. |
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This year's ceremony was highlighted by the striking teachers of the American Federation of Teachers – AFT, demonstrating for better wages and better working conditions. The teachers, paraprofessionals and support staff were in the fourth week of a strike. Teachers, parents and children, over two hundred strong, outfitted in their gold AFT shirts marched to show solidarity for the cause. "Hold the Line" was the phrase for the day by the protestors. It was during this protest that Tyrone Molyneaux, AFT president was served a TRO - temporary restraining order, indicating he must appear in court. It was initiated by Governor Charles Turnbull. The purpose of this action was to force the AFT members back to work. The hearing was set for Friday, November 3, 2000. |
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