An antiracism charity will this month trial a new format for discussions that explore race relations in Bermuda.

Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda is revisiting its Truth and Reconciliation Community Conversations, with the aim of producing a report shaped by the insights and experiences of participants over the years.

Stacey-Lee Williams, the executive director of Curb, explained why the schedule will consist of two full days instead of the seven two-hour sessions used for earlier iterations.

She said: “We are hoping this format will allow those that cannot commit to seven weeks to have the opportunity to participate.

“We find the sessions very impactful and feedback has proven to us that it is a transformational experience.”

Ms Williams said that while the sessions have been effective, there is still work to be done on the island.

She added: “In Bermuda, systemic inequities continue to create significant disparities, particularly in the job market, where Black individuals, and Black men in particular, consistently earn less than their White counterparts.

“This wage gap is just one example of the longstanding effects of structural racism and systemic oppression in our community.

“We also continue to witness acts of racism, sometimes more explicit than before, which may in part reflect the heightened racial climate in the United States.

“In today’s world, racism can no longer be denied.

“The ‘in-your-face’ racist statements and attitudes we see prove that the notion of a ‘post-racial’ society is far from reality.

“Here in Bermuda, the effects of internalised racism remain a critical issue, negatively impacting people of all races.

“At the same time, we are encouraged by the fact that there is also greater awareness, activism and willingness to speak out against injustice.

“Our community is becoming more informed and increasingly able to recognise inequity when it occurs.”

Ms Williams said that addressing racism was a continuing process that must be embedded into the fabric of people’s daily lives.

She said Curb’s focus is on building stronger communities and relationships.

The community conversations were designed to provide a safe and constructive space for dialogue and seeking solutions.

Ms Williams said there had been negative reactions by some people to the news recently that an equity grant managed by Curb will be awarded to people of colour.

She said: “When we see negative reactions, even to something as positive as the offer of an equity grant, it is evidence that misinformation and resistance remain, yet it is also clear that more voices in Bermuda are calling for equity, justice and healing than those resisting it.

“This gives us hope and strengthens our resolve to continue the work of dismantling systemic racism and building a fairer, more inclusive society.”

The two sessions are expected to provide a safe space for participants to “face hard truths, rebuild trust and imagine a future rooted in unity and understanding”.

Anyone who would like to participate must be able to attend both sessions, on September 20 from 8.30am to 4pm and on September 27 from 8.30am to 4pm.

The free sessions will take place at Curb’s office in Hamilton, but that will be subject to change if the event is oversubscribed.

Additional details and reading resources will be made available upon registration.

• To register, visithttps://forms.gle/Pftq59FgWjMxNGDA8