Party Government for changing the name of the Cup Match holiday.

The Public Holidays Amendment Act, which was tabled in the House of Assembly on November 5, aims to rename the traditional two-day break at the end of July and beginning of August -- Somers Day and Emancipation Day, respectively to recognise the discovery of Bermuda in 1609 and the abolition of slavery in the British Empire on August 1, 1834 by King William IV.

Critics have argued that this might breed division in the community.

Sir John, is quoted in today's paper, as saying both days served as reminders of the tremendous progress the Island had made since it was first settled, but that separating them would send a message that the Island was developing division rather than creating unity.

"We do not want to send a message to the outside world that we are now developing a divided society through the symbolism of two separate holidays -- one for whites and one for blacks,'' Sir John said.

But Sir John and other opponents of the change have failed to acknowledge that the two days -- while both equally important -- do mark significantly different milestones in the Island's history.

Arguing that recognition of the two separately may cause discord is similar to claiming that the celebration of Independence Day and Martin Luther King Jr.

Day in the US is divisive.

It is very sensible to give both days the attention they deserve, particularly in light of the ignorance which still exists among Bermudians -- particularly the youth, about the origin of Cup Match.

The annual cricket classic, which is in its 98th year, grew out of celebrations held by Bermuda's black community to commemorate the end of slavery.

But over the years the meaning has been lost.

In fact, even the numbers attending the Cup Match began to show a waning interest several years ago, causing great concern to the organisers.

Some may argue that this was due to a litany of draws. And organisers moved to rectify this by alternating the Somerset and St. George's venue annually despite the winner.

This and the introduction of other features, such as a special tent for visitors at the match, helped.

But the event continues to attract a majority of local blacks and white visitors, perhaps indicating that Bermuda is not as unified as some would like to think or maybe this simply represents the interest in cricket.

Therefore, it appears that Bermuda needs more than a two-day sporting event to celebrate its history and encourage unity.

Separating the two days by name may encourage more cultural events that all Bermudians can participate and take pride in.

CUP MATCH CRI