Learning from our past

January 31, 2005

Dear Sir,

Albert Swan writes (RG Jan.31) “If our forefathers could achieve what they did under such appalling conditions, then surely today blacks have little or no excuse.”

When did this change begin to happen and why? Many of us are all too aware of the disintegration of the black community and the terrible decline in our most positive values. While we know that we cannot turn the clock back to have some understanding of when and why these changes have taken place might be of some use to those who attempt to address the problem. Of course an equally important question might be who is, or how many are, even attempting to address the issue. The frequency with which Mr. Swan used the term “blackness” makes evident that it is clearly primarily a problem for the black community although it undoubtedly impacts on our race relations.

If you are one of those who are concerned about the issue and have some ideas about when or why the change began to take place perhaps you would like to leave your name and contact with NAR Tel.293-2423.

EVAN HODGSON

Why do we bother?

January 28, 2005

Dear Sir,

I just can't seem to get excited over Rev. Lambe's Committee on Independence. For me, it has the same thrill level as a forensic analysis on the future of horse-drawn transport.

I know I am not alone. In fact, Mr. Editor, I'm one of the ‘majority', if recent surveys on the subject are accurate. So if we accept that premise, why do we need an “Independence For Bermuda” study if most of us aren't interested? The Rev. Lambe claims there is a “local thirst for knowledge”. No disrespect to the Rev. Lambe but if I needed to get re-hydrated on the subject, his committee would not be the place I would go to seek this knowledge.

As a matter of fact I have had a very close look at Independence and have concluded, like a lot of other people (maybe even the majority) that there is not one single economic benefit to Bermuda being independent. On the other hand there seems to be a lot of emotional reasons for that status but not one that I can find that pays the bills.

Rev. Lambe stated that his committee would not be recommending how Bermuda should decide on the matter. I assume that he is referring to ‘referendum vs. general election'. There is no doubt in my mind that if it ever came down to the vote, a referendum would be the fairest and most democratic route to go and no one knows this better than Alex Scott which is why he doesn't want one.

At the end of the day, I think the whole thing is academic. It is not you or I, Mr. Editor who will decide the Independence issue. It will be the international business sector that will make that lofty decision.

Let's face it, we are at the whim of outside forces over which we have no control. Recent studies have shown that of the dollar earned, financial services contributes about 87 cents leaving 13 cents to the hospitality and related industries. So whoever holds the cheque book calls the shots and that ain't you or me.

WONDERING AND WANDERING

Southampton