Black Bermudians are being urged to stay away from work and schools on Monday, October 16 -- and take stock on their lives.

The plea comes from a group of blacks called The Million Man March-Coalition of Bermuda.

The group has thrown its weight behind this month's proposed Million Man March in Washington being masterminded by Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan.

And it is even planning a similar march for men in Bermuda -- also on October 16.

"Even if I'm the only one prepared to march, the march will go ahead,'' said coalition spokesman and Progressive Labour Party central committee member Mr.

Rolfe Commissiong.

According to organisers, the Million Man March in the US is part of "A National Day of Atonement'' to promote greater responsibility among men, encourage reconciliation and organise a spiritual, political and economic rebirth for Black America.

It includes time away from work and school for non-marchers -- men, women and children -- to commemorate the spiritual aspects of the day, including prayer and fasting.

The Bermuda coalition -- which is not linked to any local political party -- said they want to express their solidarity with the aims of the Washington marchers.

Also behind the march with Mr. Commissiong are fellow coalition members, Mr.

George Scott, Mr. Byron X Ratteray, and Mr. Stefan Dupres.

Said Mr. Commissiong, former PLP candidate in Paget East: "As in the United States our coalition is a broad based one, comprised as it is, of individuals and organisations which share the view that black men must assume their rightful places within our homes, our communities, and in the country at large.

"We believe that the cycles of stagnation, apathy, despair and self destructiveness which confront far too many of our men must be broken and have pledged within our spheres of influence to advance that cause, and effect a healing and reconciliation within our communities.

"It is with this goal in mind that we join our brothers in Washington, and indeed in other parts of the worlds, as one, on that great day.'' Mr. Commissiong said it was time black Bermudians took charge of their lives, removing themselves from the yoke of white domination.

Unfortunately, he said, some people, including politicians, had still to be disabused of the notion.

Mr. Commissiong added that details of Bermuda's Million Man March would be released at a later date.

He pointed out Bermudians wanting to take part in the Washington march should contact Star Travel in Union Street.

"We are urging men who can't take part in the march for one reason or another to fast for a day.

"We urge them to show solidarity in this event.'' Mr. Scott had a message for black parents on October 16: "Stay at home and reflect on education and focus on what you can do to get a better system.'' He doffed his hat to the Dellwood Primary School parents who have vowed to fight Government's plan to send their children to Northlands in 1997.

Mr. Rolfe Commissiong