Don't blame Uighurs

July 3, 2009

Dear Sir,

We've have been making annual visits to Bermuda for the past 28 years and consider the Island to be our second home. We were extremely disappointed at the recent public demonstrations against the relocation of four wholly innocent Uighur tribesmen to the island. As Americans, we are embarrassed at how Bush's arrogant and often misguided "War on Terror" contributed to this problem, but we have always thought of Bermuda as a very tolerant and open society. We have a few basic questions: How can four friendly, unarmed exiles possibly be a threat to Bermuda or its people? Why isn't there at least a similar form of public outrage at the rising level of violent crime in Bermuda since this does obviously pose an imminent threat to public safety for everyone on the Island? Premier Brown may, indeed, be a political disaster, but that's not for us as Americans to judge. If he is, indeed a disaster, his opponents should aim their verbal fire directly at him and his supporters in Parliament. Give these four innocent people from a faraway land the chance to live peacefully among you. That would be the Christian thing to do. Don't make them suffer for the perceived sins of others.

BOB AND JOANNE BURKE

Newton Highlands,

Massachusetts

Foster's stunning mural

June 29, 2006

Dear Sir,

I am visiting your lovely island for the first time. While reading your paper I saw an article about a mural painted by Graham Foster that sounded very interesting, and I decided I must see it. When I arrived at Dockyard, it was rainy and very windy, but I made my way up the hill to the Commissioner's House. Much to my consternation, I could not find the mural. It required a phone call to a friend and after much searching I found the mural in a back stairwell, and it was breathtaking. I am sure it would be even more meaningful to those of you who call the island your home. There was no indication that this mural existed or any directional signs showing the way. I could not find anyone to ask, as the only staff I had seen was the ticket taker who was not very helpful. Anyone who was not persistent and/or with advanced knowledge would probably not see this treasure. In addition there was no explanation or information about the artist. It is sad that it was not placed in City Hall or somewhere else that would be a bit more accessible to both tourists and natives alike.

SALLY MEYER

Iowa, USA