Racism, sexism, gang violence and problems in the education system will be discussed at a forum this weekend.

Community activist Dennis Bean, who organised the event, hopes political representatives and members of the public will attend to hear possible solutions to problems affecting the island.

The seminar, called “Tar Baby”, will take place tomorrow at the Anglican Cathedral Hall in Church Street, Hamilton, from 6pm to 9pm.

Mr Bean, an independent candidate in the Pembroke East Central by-election in 2002, said: “There are racial issues facing the island and I don’t think people know how to deal with that yet. I have an answer that I think will diminish a bit of the present distress.”

Mr Bean, one of the founding members of Prison Fellowship Bermuda, said the weekend event would be the first in a series.

He told the public: “You will be confronted with the ignorance perpetuated over the years of systematic miseducation and blatant oppression.”

Mr Bean added that, despite social problems, there is hope in Bermuda. He said changes were needed in the education system.

Mr Bean added: “They have pushed all these young adults through whether they can read or write and that’s because of a system put in place in the Thirties.”

He added: “I bring a common-sense approach to what this island needs. I am a Bermudian and I have a clear understanding of what Bermudians need.”