More than 400 people took a stance against modern day slavery by marching through Front Street in Bermuda's first Run For Freedom yesterday.

People of all backgrounds ran or walked from Barr's Bay Park to the Longtails and back to raise awareness about the plight of at least 12 million men, women and children in human captivity all over the world. Funds totalling several thousand dollars will go to anti-slavery international coalition Stop The Traffik, which helps those vulnerable to slavery.

Anglican Bishop Ewen Ratteray expressed his disappointment at the poor turnout of politicians, with Donte Hunt of the United Bermuda Party thought to be the only MP present, although former Progressive Labour Party backbencher George Scott was also in attendance.

Organiser Charlotte Wilberforce — the great-great-great granddaughter of UK slave emancipator William Wilberforce — described the afternoon as "awesome".

Ms Wilberforce said: "There were at least 400 people there, maybe 500, which is more than we expected. I'm absolutely thrilled.

"The atmosphere has been hugely positive. I'd like to thank everybody so much for bringing this issue to Bermuda — for recognising the history of slavery in Bermuda as well as the fact that slavery is still continuing in many parts of the world."

She said another Run For Freedom would be set up for 2009, adding: "There's no way we are going to stop now."

Bishop Ratteray, who is retiring this week, said: "I'm pleased with the turnout. It's wonderful to see so many people supporting the event.

"It's sad though that not many politicians are here. I have seen only one. That's a great shame."

Asked why so many MPs may have snubbed the event, Bishop Ratteray replied: "I don't know. I would like to hazard a guess. But I would like to register my disappointment about that.

"This is an important issue not just for Bermuda, but for the world as well. Any amount of publicity that we can give to this cause — every little bit helps — the more difference we can make."

Governor Sir Richard Gozney gave a speech explaining the significance of Run For Freedom, and said pressure could be built up all over the world to end modern slavery, just as another form of slavery was killed 200 years ago following campaigning from the likes of Wilberforce and Bermudian slave Mary Prince.

"Publicity, publicity, publicity. The sort of things you are doing today," said Sir Richard. "When it's heavily criticised at both ends of the trade, then the public pressure will add up. When politicians are pressured by the media and everyone — then it can be cracked."