The word “Moko” itself signifies a healer, originating from a Central African language, and is combined with “Jumbie,” the Caribbean term for a spirit or ghost. Therefore, a Moko Jumbie is a “healer spirit” that acts as a protector and symbol of culture, history, and freedom in the Virgin Islands.  

Moko Jumbies on St. Croix are vibrant, traditional stilt dancers originating from West African spiritual practices, evolving into a symbol of culture and protection in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Today, practitioners like the Guardians of Culture Moko Jumbies preserve the art form through teaching and performances at cultural nights and events like the Christiansted Jump Up, connecting the present to Caribbean cultural heritage.