Penn pushes back on land ownership row, defends critique of expat role

Community activist Kishma Penn has stood firm on her argument that certain white expatriates operating in the real estate market have shaped conditions that put BVIslanders at a disadvantage, contending that islanders ought not accept a subordinate position to outsiders in their own territory.

Following publication of a recent article detailing her claims, Penn faced significant pushback. Rather than back down, she used Facebook Live to elaborate on her stance, framing the issue as involving both local property owners demanding inflated prices and agents who broker those transactions.

"We know that it is greedy BVIslanders selling the lands," Penn said. "We are begging the government for protection against both the real estate agents who are facilitating the sale of this land, which we have a problem with, as well as the greedy BVIslander."

According to Penn, BVIslanders face structural barriers when competing with foreign purchasers: they struggle to secure financing, possess fewer assets and lack the purchasing strength that comes with inherited wealth. She emphasised that islanders cannot access the generational wealth available to many foreign buyers.

Penn rejected suggestions that her position reflects racial animus, asserting instead that she targets an economic structure rather than individuals. "We do not have to hate white people to hate a system that is clearly benefiting them," she said.

She also responded to white expatriates who had criticised her earlier remarks, arguing that BVIslanders have the right to demand government policies favouring local interests. Penn stressed that foreign investors have acquired too much land in the territory and urged the government to act. "We have a problem, too much of our land has gone in the hands of foreign investors, and whether we like it or whether they ain't like it, yes or no, we need some protection," she said.