May 9, 2002

Dear Sir,

The Culture Shock: Rocksteady meets Reggae that took place in Miami (last month) was fantastic. The Big Ship Promoters who were responsible for providing Bermudians the opportunity to travel overseas with an airfare, accommodation, transport and entertainment package deal provided an opportunity not to be missed. We were entertained by a brilliant line up of conscious reggae performers at Hialeah Race Track that were awesome. It was a perfect change to see how reggae shows are produced outside of Bermuda. I was so impressed by the show that I have to share it.

Firstly, what really made a big impression on me was the atmosphere at the show. In trying to recreate it, I must start from the very beginning. As you entered through the gates, the Police presence was there but it was not threatening and by no means did you see any riot vans parked nearby as if anticipating violence. Rather, their presence was there as a collaboration to ensure the smooth running by helping traffic run smoothly.

It was a family audience with babies, young children and grandparents, people with locks, people without locks, blacks, whites, different nationalities. There were vendors who cooked refreshingly home made food opposed to the otherwise ordinary style of flipping burgers and frying fries. Aromas filled the air with warm smells of jerk chicken and barbequed corn on the cob. Fresh fruit, coconut water and sugar cane were all within one's reach to joyfully taste. T-shirts, crafts, music and cultural merchandise were all available to be purchased. Chairs were available if you wanted to rest. All in all there was something for everyone in addition to the melodious reggae rhythms that filled the air.

With there being well over 3,000 people, the show maintained its harmonious atmosphere - no fights, no conflicts - just good fun and entertainment. The show was widely publicised with people coming from around the country to see the show. So there it was, a well run outside reggae show that provided an atmosphere for all family members to enjoy.

Now with the whole perception or shall I say misconception of reggae in Bermuda, it is unfortunate that we have not yet reached that level of maturity that I witnessed over in Miami. Firstly, I believe that the law enforcement in Bermuda has helped to conjure up this negative imagine of reggae music and anything associated with it here. There tends to be an increased Police presence when it comes to reggae music.

A very narrow image of people who enjoy reggae music has been created and reggae events have become stereotyped whereas people who probably enjoy the music will stay away from enjoying it away because of the stereotyping. It is about time that we learn to enjoy, love and appreciate what is ours and embrace it. Cultural democracy is a must. Reggae has undoubtedly become a part of Bermuda and the Bermuda experience. I am sure our visitors would love to come to Bermuda to experience an outstanding reggae show, as did the contingent of Bermudians who flew to Miami to enjoy the show. Will tourism support this part of our culture? Let's hope that they can see the richness in doing so.

A SISTA

City of Hamilton