The late Ijahnya Christian.
ANGUILLA--News of the death of Ijahnya Christian on April 27 was a shock to many persons in Anguilla who had worked closely with her for many years. She contributed to the community in many ways – she was the first Director of the Department of Youth and Culture, she was the Executive Director of the National Trust, the founder of the Triple Crown Culture Yard and a member of many government committees and agencies.
Governor Tim Foy said, “The governor, deputy governor and the entire team wish to express condolences to the family of the late Ms. Ijahnya Christian. Ms. Christian was a highly regarded educator, poet, journalist and culture bearer. May her soul rest in perfect peace.”
Premier Victor Banks paid tribute to her on Tuesday afternoon and gave condolences to her family and friends. “The Anguillian community both here and in the diaspora will remember her for her passion in the pursuit of social justice through her lifestyle as well as her competence in articulating those issues that she held dear to her heart. Our fallen sister was a great patriot – but she also embraced a broader vision for persons of African descent the world over. Our thoughts and prayers are with her entire family, including her mother, her children, her grandchildren, her siblings, her loved ones, her many friends, indeed the entire Anguillian community who are mourning her loss at this time,” he said.
Banks said Christian would be missed for her contribution to all sections of the community as far as culture, the environment, youth, women, heritage, education, economics, social justice and Rastafarianism. “Ijahnya touched many lives over the years in ways that will leave a positive mark on this community,” he said.
The director and staff of the Department of Youth and Culture issued a statement saying that they are deeply saddened to learn of her passing. “She is known locally, regionally and internationally for (among many other things) her fierce passion for the protection, preservation and appreciation of Caribbean and African cultural heritage and traditions. That passion was matched only by her passion for young people and their well-being. She was a mother to so many. Brilliant and eloquent, she was prepared to ‘walk her talk’ in defence of our culture and our youth. The world is the poorer for her passing.”
