discrimination with a march to the House of Parliament on Monday.

Chairman of the Commission the Rev. Canon James Francis stressed yesterday the march is not about the gay rights issue, but about the issue of racial discrimination.

While at the House, Canon Francis will hand signed petitions over to the Premier the Hon. Sir John Swan indicating the number of people who support the elimination of racism in Bermuda.

The Commission is asking Opposition Leader Mr. Frederick Wade and all Parliamentarians to be at the House when the petitions are delivered.

The petition states: "We the undersigned, support the elimination of racism in Bermuda. We encourage the Government, through the Ministry of Human Affairs and Information, to create a community where there is equality of opportunity for all residents.'' In a press conference yesterday, Canon Francis explained that Monday was the International Day for the elimination of racial discrimination.

"The march is not a gay rights issue, but a racial discrimination issue,'' Canon Francis said. "We're not trying to deceive the public as we have been accused of, we have one agenda, and that is to put an end to racial discrimination.

"We are enabling members of the community to make a commitment to eliminate racial discrimination.'' He added Minister of Human Affairs the Hon. Jerome Dill has gone on record to say that he will create a racial relations committee to deal with race relations in Bermuda.

"We want to encourage this process, and we will support any move,'' Canon Francis said.