Liberty Day, also known as D. Hamilton Jackson Day, is celebrated in the U.S. Virgin Islands, and it honors the birthday of D. Hamilton Jackson, a revered civil rights leader who played a key role in advancing freedom of speech, workers' rights, and local autonomy during the early 20th century.

When is Liberty Day?

Liberty Day is observed on November 1 each year.

The following is the list of Liberty Day from 2020 to 2049.

The History of Liberty Day?

Liberty Day commemorates David Hamilton Jackson's fight for free speech, workers' rights, and social justice during the colonial era.

Born on November 1, 1884, on St. Croix, Jackson became one of the most influential figures in the Danish West Indies (the former name of the Virgin Islands). At a time when Denmark ruled the islands, basic rights like freedom of the press, workers' protections, and civil liberties were denied to the local population, particularly those of African descent.

Jackson, a gifted speaker and advocate, dedicated his life to challenging the colonial system and improving the lives of ordinary Virgin Islanders.

In 1915, Jackson traveled to Denmark and successfully petitioned for the repeal of press censorship in the Danish colonies. Later that year, he founded The Herald, the first free newspaper in the Virgin Islands. He also organized the first labor union, giving a voice to working-class people who had long been ignored.

In recognition of his work, his birthday November 1 was declared Liberty Day, symbolizing the freedom of the press and the dignity of labor. David Hamilton Jackson is remembered as a foundational figure in Virgin Islands civil rights history.