Contract Day 2005 / St. John USVI

October 1, 1878 was the day the enslaved Africans in the Danish West Indies decided "enough is
enough." They were tired of working for nothing while continuing to be enslaved by their danish
oppressors. "Queen Mary," as she was called, lead the revolt which would go down in history as the day
the "Fire Burned" down the city of Frederiksted, St. Croix. While she and her comrades were
captured it was only after they had done much damage to the town. A stick, A torn off Apron and some
oil were the only tools they had to give a message; "enough is enough." In 2005, there is another
delemna brewing on the baby of the three US Virgin Islands, St. John. While it is the smallest, the
revenue which is brought into the economy is unsurpassed by either of the other two Islands.    Native
Virgin Islanders began selling off their inherited properties to the affluent, causcasian business people
who began an influx into the Island in the late 70s. This process continues today. Many black business
owner feel they are being forced out by the affluent whites. There have been incidences of alleged
rapes, lynchings and cross burnings.   As a result of this racial tension, St. John is in a state of civil
unrest. One building was burned down in Cruz bay. Many St. Johnians have been quiet until now. On
Contract day 2005, it was one womens' plight that brought "Big Sister" Cruxians and St. Thomians
to her aid. Queen Esther, as she is called, has suffered some injustices. Her story has not fully
been told. It would seem that "Senate Resolution 39" has been forgotten in the USVI. "Enough is
Enough." " We want justice now". "Firebun." These seemed to be reflective of words uttered in the
50s and 60s in the mainland by those fighting for racial equality and against racial injustices. Now the
same voices are crying out in the illustrious haven of St. John, USVI.   What was supposed to be a
day of unity merely reflected the inner turmoil that lies within the most intricate parts of the Island
of St. John. While few will talk about it,   Blacks and Whites alike reflect their edginess in their
facial expressions and their nonverbal gestures. Today, the "Fire Burned" for healing and some sought
its healing energy yet many others still awaited the unanswered questions. Some in silence and others
with vigilence"Firebun" for self-determination. " "Firebun" against racial discrimination. "Firebun,"
against injustice. "Firebun," "Firebun," "Firebun."

Yvonne Washington-Turay MSN,FNP,APRN-BC /CEO and Founder
"Gods House International"