The role of friendly societies in post-emancipation Bermuda will be examined in the latest of a season of free, virtual lectures.

As part of the Bermuda and the Atlantic World series the talk will show how the societies played a key role in empowering Black Bermudians.

The Zoom lecture will be given by Dr Michael Bradshaw, president of the Bermuda Friendly Societies Association.

It is being organised by the National Museum of Bermuda and a spokesman said: “Established as early as 1832, friendly societies were vital for the empowerment of Black Bermudians in post-emancipation Bermuda, providing education and financial support to the most vulnerable members of our society.

“This lecture will explore the role and practices of friendly societies in the New World and how the presence and participation of the Bermuda friendly society system is linked to the familiar adage ‘Bermuda is another world'.”

Elena Strong, the museum’s executive director, said: “Our Bermuda and the Atlantic World free lecture series is one of many ways that the National Museum is providing opportunities to learn about Bermuda’s past.

“It explores the links and the forces throughout the Atlantic World that helped shape Bermuda as we know it today. I encourage everyone to register to learn more about the role of friendly societies in Bermuda”.

Dr Bradshaw, a retired community college lecturer, was born, and raised in Bermuda.

He has also taught in the UK and West Africa, and has strong West Indian connections.

Click here to register for Dr Bradshaw’s lecture or go to www.nmb.bm. It will be available via Zoom at 5.30pm, Thursday, July 21.