CARNIVAL BOOKLET2-426

THE VALUE OF CARNIVAL TO OUR COMMUNITY
Caswil Callender
When the V.I. Carnival Committee developed its
mission statement, it was with the vision of providing
an event which played a more significant role than
simply being a party. The mission statement reads,
“To preserve and promote Virgin Islands culture
and enhance U.S. Virgin Islands tourism.” Clearly,
the committee has been fulfilling its mission.
Even prior to becoming the Executive Director
in 1995, I had been a staunch advocate for the
development of this celebration, and played a
major role in the introduction and implementation
of numerous initiatives including the establishment
of an office, the designing of an accounting system
and the vouchers used within the system. From the
receipt of several International awards which lead
to the global recognition the carnival now enjoys,
to the entrepreneurial opportunities for the masses,
the development was quite evident. My ability
to communicate with potential entertainers from
the Dominican Republic, in their native language,
the basic knowledge of computers, being an
accomplished musician and the holder of an FAA
pilot’s license, all facilitated certain aspects of the
growth which was seen over the years.
Long before the phrase “cultural tourism” had
become popular, we attempted to get leaders of
several administrations to see the potential of carnival
becoming a vehicle by which the Virgin Islands could
have strengthened its economy.
As the single largest annual tourist attraction in the
territory, carnival enhances the economy. Thousands
of visitors from the U.S. mainland and throughout the
Caribbean, converge on the little “Rock” and locals
get an opportunity to relieve themselves of some of
the stress of daily life due to an extremely high cost
of living.
One may wonder, if carnival is so great for the
economy, why isn’t there adequate funding to
further enhance the events? Others may present the
argument that the government already allots funding
for carnival which is not a government-run event.
All around the world, communities turn to festivals
as a means of boosting their economy. Festivals
attract visitors and visitors spend money. Gas
stations, souvenir shops, restaurants, hotels, car rental
agencies, etc., tend to have a jump in sales. It is no
different during the Carnival on St. Thomas.
So, let us examine the economic and social values of
carnival to the territory. As a result of carnival related
activities, the government collects several millions
of dollars more than the regular monthly average
collected in Gross Receipts and Excise taxes. An
enormous amount of community members become
temporary entrepreneurs, which allows for the wider
circulation of the dollars being spent. This obviously
helps to strengthen the economy. Then there is the
domino effect whereby those businesses which may
not benefit directly from the immediate increase in
spending during the festivities, subsequently enjoy the
fruits acquired by the hard labor of these temporary
vendors. Some have been known to purchase bigticket
items such as vehicles, household appliances
or property. Others have been able to liquidate loans,
pay their children’s tuition or simply taken vacations
which were previously beyond their financial reach.
Carnival also offers recreational opportunities which
are not otherwise available. The pageants, the nightly
performances of local entertainers and others from
throughout the Caribbean, the availability of cuisine
specially prepared for this time of year, the “Rides”
in the children’s village which create a great deal of
anxiety for the little ones, clamoring to mount up
on one, the “Boat Races,” the Jouvert and the ever
popular Parades which last for many hours, are all
elements which help to ensure that there is something
for everyone.
Considering the above-mentioned social and
economic impact which carnival has on the
community, I don’t think there should be any doubt
regarding the government’s allotment of funds to
assist with the execution of such an important event.
The V. I. Carnival Committee has rendered an
extremely valuable service to the community over
the years.
The Virgin Islands Carnival is now a vital part of the
tourism product. Consequently, the Government
of the V.I. is a major beneficiary of carnival. Any
effort to destroy or minimize it, will have a direct
negative impact on the economy. Since the carnival
committee is a nonprofit volunteer organization, the
members should be glorified, held in high esteem
and honored as champions in the community. The
committee has truly demonstrated a commitment to
“community before self.”
As is expected with any event of this magnitude, there
will be ongoing problems which must be solved on
a regular basis. More recently, the development of
electronic recording technology has brought on new
challenges. There are those who feel that they can
simply disregard the Federal Trademark Laws and
reproduce or live-stream the Intellectual Properties of
the committee for their financial benefit.
In spite of all the sleepless nights and the incessant
attacks on my reputation, I experienced extreme
gratification from just knowing that we have been
providing our community with such an important
addition to our main industry, tourism, while
witnessing the exuberance on the faces of thousands
of our residents and visitors.
I have truly enjoyed the numerous relationships
which were developed over the years with individuals
working feverishly; some behind the scenes, but
nevertheless, who played major roles in determining
the success of this event. There were the truckers,
carpenters, electricians, shippers, and graphic artists,
to name a few. I have also learned that in order to
build these wonderful working relationships, loyalty
is important. There must also be mutual respect and a
reciprocal show of appreciation.
To those sponsors with whom I have worked in the
past, I offer a big “thank you” for helping to make
my tenure more worthwhile and satisfying. While
there were many, I feel compelled to make mention
of the top sponsor, the epitome of corporate citizenry
in the Virgin Islands, LEEWARD ISLANDS
MANAGEMENT COMPANY, which include
Bellows International and West Indies Company.
Working with ladies such as Susan Warren and
Giovanni Rochester was a joy. Although they were
obligated to their company, they demonstrated a
great deal of respect for the Carnival Committee
and me. I was able to utilize my training in the art
of negotiations when dealing with them and the end
result was always a positive one for the community.
I applaud Mr. Richard Berry, President, and all the
employees of this benevolent organization.
Although I am retired from the Carnival Committee,
my hope is that due to the economic boost which
carnival brings for the community, a greater number
of corporate sponsors would be willing to come
forward and support the efforts of the committee. I
wish the committee lots of luck and hope they are
successful with this and future Carnivals.
According to Lester R. Goodwin, Jr. “Unfortunately,
history likes to put things in neat boxes, and often
those who are involved in the creation of something,
don’t get credit for it.” This is so true, but it is my
intention to make the global community be aware
that the V.I. Carnival was a creation of private citizens
and continues to be nurtured by the committee’s
members, who in my opinion are true heroes within
the community.
“Don’t Stop Deh Carnival.” It is too valuable to our
community!
A Centennial Commemoration for our 65th Celebration 15