VI Caribbean Cultural Center

Today we remember the life and legacy of a revolutionary labour leader and community activist, Elma Francois, who was the first woman in Trinidad and Tobago to be charged and tried for sedition alongside her male counterparts Tubal Uriah “Buzz” Butler and others during the 1930s Labour movement. She was found to be “not guilty” after representing herself in court.

Francois dedicated her life’s work to fighting for the improved living and working conditions of working-class people in her birthplace of St. Vincent and later, in Trinidad. Throughout her life, she elevated the concerns of working-class women, encouraging them to deepen their political involvement.

Francois was a founding member of the National Unemployed Movement (NUM)—which later became the Negro Welfare Cultural and Social Association (NWCSA)—the Seamen and Waterfront Workers’ Trade Union (SWWTU) and the Federated Workers’ Trade Union (FWTU)—now the National Union of Government and Federated Workers (NUGFW).

Following her participation in the Labour Riots of 1937, she was arrested and accused of sedition. In February 1938, she became the first woman to be charged with sedition in Trinidad and Tobago. The charges were later dropped. She is remembered as a captivating public speaker, who always encouraged those around her to expand their political consciousness through reading and political organisation.

Copyright ©️ The National Archives of Trinidad & Tobago. All rights reserved.

Photo of Elma Francois taken from page 25 of “Elma Francois: The NWCSA and the Worker's Stuggle for Change in the Caribbean” by Rhoda Reddock. Published by New Beacon Books (1988). This book is part of the National Archives of Trinidad and Tobago’s Reference Collection.

References: Reddock, Rhoda. “Elma Francois: The NWCSA and the Workers Struggle for Change in the Caribbean.” New Beacon Books, 1988; Reddock, Rhoda. “The Women In Revolt.” The Trinidad Labour Riots of 1937: Perspectives 50 Years Later., by Roy Thomas, UWI Extra-Mural Studies Unit, 1987.

The U.S. Virgin Islands has a new queen.

Jenna Monet Queeley, internationally recognized model and rising global fashion star, has officially been crowned Miss Universe U.S. Virgin Islands, earning the opportunity to represent the territory on one of the world’s most prestigious stages.

Known for her commanding runway presence, elegance, and dedication to empowering young women, Queeley brings a unique blend of international experience and Virgin Islands pride to the crown. Having built an impressive career in the fashion industry, she has represented Caribbean beauty and culture across global platforms, making her selection a celebrated moment for the territory.

As Miss Universe U.S. Virgin Islands, Queeley will serve as a cultural ambassador, showcasing the rich heritage, resilience, and spirit of the Virgin Islands while advocating for causes close to her heart. Supporters describe her as intelligent, poised, and deeply committed to making a positive impact both locally and internationally.

The announcement has generated excitement throughout the Virgin Islands and among members of the Caribbean diaspora, who are eager to rally behind their newest representative as she prepares for the Miss Universe competition.
“I am honored to represent the U.S. Virgin Islands on the global stage,” Queeley said following her crowning. “This crown is more than a title—it’s an opportunity to celebrate our people, our culture, and our limitless potential.”

As preparations begin for the international competition, all eyes will be on Jenna Monet Queeley as she embarks on her journey to bring the Miss Universe crown home to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

Congratulations to Miss Universe U.S. Virgin Islands Jenna Monet Queeley—a queen, ambassador, and inspiration for the next generation.

One of those moments!

Brotherhood isn’t measured by how often you stand beside each other. It’s measured by knowing that whenever life calls, your brother is there.

We share stages, stories, struggles, victories, and the pride of carrying our Virgin Islands roots wherever we go. What connects us today is deeper than friendship and bigger than music.

In a world that often feels temporary, true brotherhood is a lifelong bond!
Ron Blake Music Victor Provost Music