Dear Sir,

We, the undersigned, wish to encourage our entire island community to be especially mindful during this period of polarisation and heightened tension.

Noting that, even in our immediate families, it is natural to have occasional and sometimes robust disagreements. Notwithstanding the dangers, we trust that we are able to address these challenging circumstances to the benefit of all involved. In light of the same, we are inviting each and everyone in our small community to join in playing some part, which may include any of the following:

• Be aware that we all have the right to peacefully demonstrate our opposition or support for any and all issues affecting our island — a key part of universal fundamental rights

• We encourage the police to be especially mindful in their service to the community. This includes how they engage that thin blue line, taking on their responsibility to protect the rights of individuals from any harm, as well as safeguarding the rule of law with the utmost of care

• We invite those who wish to exercise their democratic right to protest to do so in a way that is mindful of the law and is considerate of all others who may be affected by protest actions

• We encourage those directly engaged in the airport debate to optimise transparency, with the aim of promoting a reasonable and honest dialogue, which fosters trust as we seek to enhance the interests of the whole island

Let us, in advance, express our appreciation to all who in these challenging times take into consideration the dangers offered by this crisis, as well as the opportunities to affirm our democratic traditions. As we engage, please be encouraged to nurture a sense of reverence for each other — regardless of differences — as we move forward as a community.

THE REVEREND BETTY FURBERT-WOOLRIDGE, presiding elder of the AME Church, THE RIGHT REVEREND NICHOLAS DILL, Anglican Bishop of Bermuda, TULANI BULFORD, MARTHA DISMONT, GLENN FUBLER, MARGARET HALLET, KEITH JENSEN, LYNN MILLETT, GLAD SIMMONS, GAVIN SMITH, LUCINDA SPURLING, WAYNE PERINCHIEF, HARRY SOARES