Social commentator Sandra Phillip Hodge has sparked debate after calling for a dress code for the August Monday Parade in Road Town, arguing that some costumes have become too revealing.
In a post on social media including several local community boards, Hodge questioned whether the Territory still upheld standards governing acceptable public attire.
“I suggest the Festival Committee set a dress code for the August Monday Parade. It’s getting worse every year. It’s not just flesh and feathers anymore, it’s the whole backside outta door,” she wrote.
Her comments triggered a barrage of criticism, with several persons accusing her of being overly judgemental and arguing that revealing costumes are expected during celebrations.
“Complain for everything. Let people be,” one person responded, while another said: “It’s a parade. Y’all need to learn to mind y’all business.”
Some persons were particularly upset that Hodge included a close-up photograph of a reveller wearing a costume she considered inappropriate, questioning whether the image was taken or posted with the individual’s consent.
However, Hodge received some support, with one commenter suggesting that stronger standards had previously been enforced, “Ms. Parsons was the only person that could hold them to some sort of standard or rules.”
Following the backlash, Hodge issued another statement declaring that she would not be silenced. She maintained that the photograph did not show the individual’s face and was posted as “evidence” of what she believes is happening to the Territory’s Emancipation celebrations.
“This is not Trin-Bago or Rio de Janeiro. This is Road Town, Tortola,” Hodge stated.
“I will not remain silent while a monster is being fed with our culture and heritage,” she added, insisting that everyone should be welcomed to participate in the parade, but “there must be a decent standard set by decent BVI people.”
In a post on social media including several local community boards, Hodge questioned whether the Territory still upheld standards governing acceptable public attire.
“I suggest the Festival Committee set a dress code for the August Monday Parade. It’s getting worse every year. It’s not just flesh and feathers anymore, it’s the whole backside outta door,” she wrote.
Her comments triggered a barrage of criticism, with several persons accusing her of being overly judgemental and arguing that revealing costumes are expected during celebrations.
“Complain for everything. Let people be,” one person responded, while another said: “It’s a parade. Y’all need to learn to mind y’all business.”
Some persons were particularly upset that Hodge included a close-up photograph of a reveller wearing a costume she considered inappropriate, questioning whether the image was taken or posted with the individual’s consent.
However, Hodge received some support, with one commenter suggesting that stronger standards had previously been enforced, “Ms. Parsons was the only person that could hold them to some sort of standard or rules.”
Following the backlash, Hodge issued another statement declaring that she would not be silenced. She maintained that the photograph did not show the individual’s face and was posted as “evidence” of what she believes is happening to the Territory’s Emancipation celebrations.
“This is not Trin-Bago or Rio de Janeiro. This is Road Town, Tortola,” Hodge stated.
“I will not remain silent while a monster is being fed with our culture and heritage,” she added, insisting that everyone should be welcomed to participate in the parade, but “there must be a decent standard set by decent BVI people.”
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