A leading US writer on racism is to hold two public workshops on the Island later this month.

Tim Wise was invited by Curb (Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda) to present the sessions on Understanding Racism and Privilege. They will consist of 'White on White: Understanding Racism and Privilege' and 'Community Dialogue: Understanding Racism Together'.

Lynne Winfield, Curb president, said: "We are excited to be able to bring Tim Wise back to Bermuda. The ongoing issues about race reflect that people hold different views of what the problem is, and also that people care deeply about Bermuda, and want a better future where we can all live and work together.

"We believe Mr. Wise can provide a positive contribution to the community overall by helping us all to better understand racism and privilege. When Mr. Wise was here in 2005 he spoke at two similar events, one for the white community and one designed for all community members. At both sessions he received a highly positive response from attendees in halls that were packed to capacity.

"We don't think that people's desire to address the issue has diminished since then, so we are excited to be able to offer these opportunities."

Since his last visit in 2005, Mr. Wise is understood to have undertaken research on race relations in Bermuda and to have kept abreast of race-related issues in the news. The author is considered one of America's foremost anti-racism writers and educators. His published works include 'White Like Me: Reflections on Race from a Privileged Son' and 'Affirmative Action: Racial Preference in Black and White'.

Mr. Wise won the 2001 British Diversity Award for 'Best feature essay on race' and has appeared on numerous radio and television programmes, including the Oprah Winfrey Show. He has a BA in Political Science from Tulane University, where his anti-apartheid work received global attention and expressions of thanks from Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.

Demand as a speaker has taken Mr. Wise to more than 400 US colleges. He trains corporate, government and law enforcement officials on how to dismantle racism in institutions, and has worked with physicians and medical professionals on combating racial inequalities in healthcare.

'White on White: Understanding Racism and Privilege' is specifically for white members of the community and will take place on November 27 at 7 p.m. in the Cathedral Hall. 'Community Dialogue: Understanding Racism Together' is open to everyone and will be held at 7 p.m. on November 29 at St. Andrew's Church Hall.

Ms Winfield said: "Both events are free, and will serve to answer questions, enlighten, and hopefully remove some confusion."