July 22, 2010

Dear Sir,

Most expatriates in Bermuda came here because it is easier and better for them to move forward in their lives at a faster pace financially. They are here in Bermuda simply to better their lives and the lives of their family.

As a West Indian, it is clear to me that when we as West Indians (for those not familiar with the term, it's used for Caribbean people), leave our country to migrate to any country, the two main reasons are; (1) financial freedom, and/or (2) love. The money obtained by virtue of hard work, stretches more from country to country and from currency to currency. Caribbean people are very loyal and hard working in any country they choose or required to work. It's part of our nature.

We as Caribbean people have our morals, integrity, respect, love, professionalism, and other values bestowed upon us by our parent(s), family members, and country. We come to Bermuda with all these aspect of life as well rounded individuals. There is no need to change what we already have instilled in us by our fore parents. What I can suggest we do, is bolster these positive attributes alongside the cultural differences of Bermuda.

Year in, year out, West Indians have the propensity to bury most of their rights, like freedom of speech, and other constitutional rights and allow themselves to accept being treated in Bermuda as an Alien rather than a Commonwealth Citizen as they are by definition of the British National Act 1981. The definition is also found in the Interpretation Act 1951.

West Indians, by giving up their constitutional rights or allowing themselves to be muzzled by their employer, by accepting offence against them contrary to any act of law in Bermuda, because of the money, is allowing themselves to be financial slaves.

They should not relinquish their constitutional rights in process of acquiring a quick buck.

LUCAN JOSEPH

St. Lucia