LAST weekend's Human Rights Commission's Global Village was deemed a smashing success by participants and organisers alike.

With more than 1,000 people in attendance at Par-la-Ville Park on Saturday, the event celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which represents the first global expression of rights to which all human beings are inherently entitled.

The all-day festival featured exhibitors, entertainment, art and food from all of the cultures and backgrounds represented in Bermuda.

"The underlying purpose is to educate the public about human rights issues," said Venous Memari (pictured), chair of the Human Rights Commission (HRC).

"However, it is also an opportunity for us to celebrate the infusion of cultures that exist in Bermuda."

Families and children were entertained by a variety of local musicians including Stan Seymour, Joy Barnum, Ms Tiny T & Friends, Val Sherwood, Sabor Dance School, Capoeira Camara, Bad Current, Live Wire, Mohawk Radio and many others.

Hand-painted murals were on display by local artists and are now at the offices of the HRC on Church Street in Hamilton.

Other highlights of the day included a joint blessing by religious leaders within the Christian, Jewish and Muslim communities and there were a variety of educational activities both for children and adults.

"We are hoping it (the event) will become an annual event and a way for Bermuda to celebrate its people once a year," said Ms Memari.

"We're hoping the whole community will embrace this concept and it will become a community-driven event rather than a Human Rights Commission-driven event."