Bermudians should use today?s celebration of American civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. as an opportunity address problems here, says Opposition MP Jamahl Simmons.

And he lamented the informal segregation which exists in social relations between the races.

He said Dr. King?s leadership in the struggle for civil and human rights provided the opportunity to reflect on challenges in Bermuda.

?As we remember the life of Dr. King we must also take the time to remember those Bermudians who, at great personal risk, fought to ensure that each of us could live in a Bermuda free of discrimination, injustice and hatred.

?People such as Dr. E.F. Gordon and members of the Progressive Group, among others, blazed a trail of hope that continues to inspire today. We must never forget the courage and sacrifice of those who came before us and fought to ensure that every Bermudian could have the opportunity to be equal and full participants in Bermudian society.

?We remain a society that practises nine to five integration while remaining largely segregated after working hours.

?We remain a society where far too many of our young black men are caught up in the revolving door of the criminal justice system.

?We remain a society where far too many of our people feel excluded from Bermuda?s economic miracle. We remain a society where the legacy of slavery and racial injustice continues to impact on our people, both black and white,? Mr. Simmons added.

Grant Gibbons, Leader of the United Bermuda Party echoed his colleague:

?Dr. King?s message is as true today as it was during the civil rights era. ...One way we can begin to address the feeling of exclusion that is so prevalent among our young people is to begin the process of racial reconciliation.?

Minister Without Portfolio Ashfield DeVent said he agreed with both Mr. Simmons and Dr. Gibbons and said it was vital to be vigilant against racism.

?I am quite happy to hear that kind of talk coming from members of the UBP, particularly as they were in charge for so long and some could argue they could have done a lot more in addressing those problems.?

He said his party was founded on the ideals the UBP was now praising. ?It indicates what a difference a day makes and November the 9th really made a great deal of difference in this country.?

A one-hour programme on Dr. King?s life, written by written by Sports Minister Dale Butler will be aired on 1230 am radio at noon today.