Young Virgin Islanders Use Art to Champion Justice

Atty. Casey Payton (left) and Gyselle Ready (right)

The VI Justice Initiative proudly recognizes the extraordinary leadership and generosity of recent high school graduate Gyselle Ready, whose passion for art and justice has made a lasting impact on our community.

Gyselle first joined the VI Justice Initiative as a student volunteer during our Harvest Festival. Through that experience, she developed a deep connection to our mission of expanding access to justice for Virgin Islanders. Inspired to make a difference, she transformed her passion into action.

As part of her graduation efforts, Gyselle curated "Art with Voice," a student pop-up exhibition at 81C featuring artwork by members of the Antilles School Class of 2026. More than an art exhibition, the event served as a fundraiser in support of the VI Justice Initiative and the National Immigration Justice Center Organization, with proceeds directly benefiting our programs and helping us continue to serve Virgin Islanders in need.

We are incredibly grateful to Gyselle for demonstrating that young people have the power to create meaningful change. Her creativity, initiative, and commitment to justice are an inspiration, and we are honored to have her as part of the VI Justice family.

We also extend our sincere appreciation to 81C for opening its doors to this exhibition and for its continued support of community-centered initiatives. This is not the first time 81C has partnered with the VI Justice Initiative; during the COVID-19 pandemic, they also hosted our youth art competition “Picture VI Justice”, pop-up exhibition, and awards ceremony that helped bring our community together through creativity and hope. Their ongoing commitment to supporting local artists and organizations continues to strengthen the Virgin Islands.

On behalf of everyone at the VI Justice Initiative, thank you, Gyselle, and thank you, 81C, for using art as a powerful voice for justice.