In the build-up to Bermuda Day, this month has been designated a time to celebrate the symbols that define Bermuda.

A host of activities to do just that have been organised, said Community Affairs Minister Dale Butler, ranging from a talk on the national bird the Cahow by Conservation Officer Jeremy Madeiros, to a discussion on the Gombey tradition and tradition bearers visiting the Island?s schools to give knowledge and insight on Bermuda?s cultural heritage to children.

Speaking at the House of Assembly last Friday, the Minister said this year?s Heritage Month was themed ?Bermuda?s National Symbols? and that included the likes of the Bermuda onion, cedar tree, Cahow, the architecture of the Island?s houses, stepped roofs, Bermuda Moongates and the ?eyebrows? above windows of many Bermuda homes.

?Bermuda?s people also represent unique symbols. Our reputation as a friendly people is known far and wide ? from the way we greet and interact with each other, and we are offended if our greetings of ?Good morning?, ?Good afternoon? and so on are not returned with like enthusiasm,? he said.

He added that May 23, the day before Bermuda Day, has been designated as a day for schools to celebrate Bermuda?s late running legend ?Sir? Stanley Burgess.