‘Restorative’ equity grant launched for Black students
A fund has been created by two White Bermudian women that seeks to contribute to the work of repair and restoration for the benefit of Black and biracial students.
Antiracism charity Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda is to manage the “groundbreaking” Equity Empowerment Grant, which was designed to provide direct financial support to people who wish to pursue further education but face economic barriers.
The creators of the fund benefited from scholarships in the past and said they recognise their privilege in that regard within the context of Bermuda’s “deeply unequal society”, Curb said.
Reflecting on their experiences, the women came to acknowledge how systemic inequities rooted in centuries of enslavement, segregation and racist policies have disadvantaged Black people in Bermuda, the charity added.
By entrusting Curb with the management of the grant, the founders were said to have ensured that the scheme is guided by the principles of equity, racial justice and community empowerment.
Stacey-Lee Williams, the charity’s executive director, said: “By stepping forward to acknowledge their privilege and channel it into an initiative that empowers those historically excluded by enslavement and segregation, the founders of this grant exemplify the kind of restorative action needed to build a more just and inclusive Bermuda.
“Curb is honoured to manage this grant and ensure its alignment with the principles of racial equity and justice.”
The Equity Empowerment Grant is not only a response to immediate financial needs, but also part of a broader movement to create structural change. It seeks to:
• Empower Black Bermudian youth to achieve their academic, vocational and professional goals
• Foster community solidarity in addressing systemic inequities
• Contribute to a long-term shift towards equitable access to education for all Bermudians
• Information provided by Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda
The success and sustainability of the Equity Empowerment Grant will depend on “collective action” in the form of financial support to expand the reach and number of grants awarded, and in-kind support such as mentorship, internships or academic resources.
Eligible Black and biracial Bermudian students are invited to apply for the Equity Empowerment Grant by completing a registration form available through the charity’s Instagram page or by calling Curb on 707-1496.
The submission deadline is September 22.
• Anyone interested in contributing to the Equity Empowerment Grant can e-mail admin@uprootingracism.org
Objectives
• Financial support — assist Black and biracial Bermudian students with tuition fees, books and essential academic expenses
• Community responsibility — inspire a culture of giving back, reparatory justice and collective responsibility within Bermuda
• Awareness and advocacy — highlight systemic inequities in education and advocate for transformative change
Key features
• Transparent selection process — considering academic performance, financial need and community involvement
• Community engagement — opportunities for individuals, organisations and allies to contribute funds, resources or mentorship
• Sustainable impact — designed to empower recipients not only through education but also through mentorship and community solidarity
• Information provided by Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda
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