The morning after: so proud to be Bermudian
Dear Sir,
Sunday, June 7, 2020 will be etched in our history — Bermuda history to be exact — as one of our greatest moments. What I witnessed here is an extension of protest that started in Minnesota, has spread across America, and has reached as far as Australia, England, South Korea and even our tiny home of Bermuda.
There were people of all races, some locked arm in arm marching peacefully in support of Black Lives Matter.
Black Lives Matter is not just a slogan, but three very important words expressing change for the betterment of the black race.
We have suffered tremendously for decades and centuries, all the while mostly engaging in peaceful protesting against prejudice, hate and insecurity.
To say that I was surprised to see many of our white citizens that came out to support the cause, no I wasn’t. What I witnessed over the days on the American news took that away.
Mr Editor, I can recall the days and celebrations of Gina Swainson winning the Miss World beauty pageant, Clarence Hill winning the bronze medal at the Olympics, Clarance “Nicky” Saunders winning gold at the Commonwealth Games — all proud moments to be celebrated. But none of them, independently or collectively, can or will ever make me more proud to have borne witness to what I saw on this day.
Our history proves one thing that is abundantly clear: as black people, we are very, very, very forgiving. Many can express viewpoints as to why. But that’s not my main point here.
No longer are we waiting for change to happen, Mr Editor; it has happened!
We must recognise and acknowledge all the organisations, individuals, and unions past and present for getting us here.
Congratulations to all who organised the event.
Today, history will record that many of us have never, ever been more proud to be Bermudian.
The question now is, where do we go from here?
BROWNLOW ADDERLEY
Southampton