'Enough is Enough': Virgin Islanders Protest for Immediate WAPA Reform and Federal Oversight Amid Persistent Blackouts

Residents demand urgent action from officials, calling for transparency and a change in management at WAPA to address long-standing issues with the USVI's power supply during a highly visible protest in downtown Charlotte Amalie

Dozens of St. Thomas residents, frustrated with recent power outages as well as decades-long high utility bills and poor service, gathered in downtown Charlotte Amalie on Monday to protest current conditions under the Water and Power Authority. Protesters called for urgent action from elected officials during the energy state of emergency that was declared in late April.

The “Enough is Enough” protest organizers advised community members to wear black to symbolize both the ongoing rolling blackouts and what they claim is the lack of transparency from local leaders on the issue. After gathering at Emancipation Garden, the crowd walked to Government House before arriving across the street from the Legislature.

As the protesters chanted outside of the Legislature, receiving honks of support from cars driving by, three lawmakers— Senators Milton Potter, Ray Fonseca, and Marvin Blyden—walked across the street to engage in discussions with the residents.‌