A somber vigil held Thursday night on St. Thomas gave families and friends of those lost to gun violence a space to mourn, pray and seek solace.
The event, hosted by the Gun Violence Prevention Office and moderated by Pastor Gerard McDonald, saw the community come together in a powerful display of unity and grief. Electric candles illuminated the faces of attendees as the names of each individual murdered in 2024 were solemnly read aloud, a stark reminder of the lives tragically cut short.
Desiree Lambertis, a victim advocate with Inspire VI, LLC, delivered a stirring address, her voice resonating with both pain and determination. “The reality of the Virgin Islands is that we’re living in fear,” she declared. “We’re being held hostage. They kill our sons, they kill our daughters … and we are afraid to say what we know and what we hear.” Lambertis urged the community to break the silence, emphasizing that solving these crimes requires collective courage and a refusal to succumb to fear. “This is our community,” she implored. “One percent of the people out there are holding us hostage.”
Meanwhile, Tony Emanuel, director of the Gun Violence Prevention Office, stressed the importance of community-driven solutions. He highlighted the need to empower young people, emphasizing conflict resolution, personal responsibility, and self-esteem. Emanuel revealed that his office has been working with students from elementary to high school levels, fostering dialogue and challenging harmful mindsets. “That kid from the west or from the east is not your enemy,” he stated, underscoring the importance of bridging divides.
Emanuel also acknowledged the need for improved crisis response within the community. He called for a more consistent and comprehensive support system for families impacted by violence, recognizing the current gaps in providing ongoing assistance.
Capt. Sandra Colbourne of the Virgin Islands Police Department brought a law enforcement perspective to the vigil, emphasizing the role of adults in nurturing future leaders. With 35 years of experience, she stressed the need for long-term commitment and investment in the territory’s youth. “If we’re not willing to put in the work, it’s not going to change,” Colbourne asserted. “We have to invest in our paradise, invest in each child.”
She urged community members to dedicate their time to mentoring and supporting children, highlighting the importance of individual involvement in fostering positive change. Colbourne concluded her remarks by inviting those present to participate in existing community programs and offering ways for people to get involved in supporting the youth.
