‘Race & Resistance’ Symposium On November 3
The Bermuda College and the Human Rights Commission, in partnership with The Oxford Centre for Global History and The Oxford Research Centre in the Humanities [TORCH] Race and Resistance Network, will host a one-day symposium on Saturday, November 3 entitled “Race and Resistance: Understanding Bermuda Today”.
A spokesperson said, “This collaborative educational event is free and open to the public. This event aims to provide an accessible exploration of Bermuda’s history of slavery and racial segregation and the intersection of race, resistance and history in the contemporary Bermuda landscape.
“Three panels of speakers will discuss the role of resistance in Bermuda’s experiences, from founding and emancipation, to racial desegregation, to current issues and events. A final plenary session will focus on ways to address the legacy of racism and understand patterns of resistance in Bermuda today to help guide our path toward transformation.
“The event will be hosted at the Bermuda College, Bermuda’s only higher education institution.
“Dr. Curtis-Tweed, Vice-President of the Bermuda College, shared, ‘Knowledge of our history is important to understanding our strengths and amazing accomplishments as well as patterns of socioeconomic and political disenfranchisement. It is from our stories of resistance that we can draw strength and formulate ways to transform our community. Bermuda College is pleased to be a part of this important event.’
“Part of the motivation for the convening is a response to the consistent call to better understand Bermuda’s history, especially as it relates to race – the events, structures, legislation, and practices over time – and how it applies to the lived experience of all Bermudian’s today and the community as a whole.
“The Symposium will feature the expertise of local academics as well as activists. As Lisa Reed, Executive Officer of the Human Rights Commission stated, ‘Bermuda has a rich history of activism through the varied contributions of artists, intellectuals, spiritual leaders, community groups etc.
“Much of Bermuda’s history, in particular its racial history, has been painstakingly researched and mapped by individuals seeking to give voice to untold stories in order to question and challenge oppressive practices. Often times this advocacy has come at great personal and professional cost.’
“The convening will specifically honor Dr. Eva Hodgson who continues to model a life of both academic pursuit and dedicated activism. While many recognise her as an educator and author, infamous for her frequent Letters to the Editor, those fortunate enough to engage with her in person know that you will rarely meet a more curious, open and brilliant mind. CURB [Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda] and the Department of Community and Cultural Affairs are also partnering to support this event in her honour.
“The hosts are also pleased to welcome international colleagues dedicated to race and resistance work from Oxford University. Wale Adebanwi, Rhodes Professor of Race Relations and Director of the African Studies Centre, Oxford University and Stephen Tuck, Professor of Modern History, and Co-Director of the Race and Resistance Research Programme, Oxford University, expressed their honour at joining the convening,
‘The issues of race, resistance and restoration are vitally important topics in Oxford, Bermuda and worldwide. We are delighted to support this collaborative exploration of the struggle for equality in Bermuda — past, present and future.’
“The Student Centre at the College will become a lively ‘Marketplace’ for the day, showcasing local literature, artists and community groups. The Marketplace will reinforce opportunities to stay engaged and continue learning. Several local authors will be signing books during the lunch period. Please get in touch if you would like to get involved, or host a table or display in the Marketplace.
“To ensure accessibility and sustainability, all the presentations will be recorded and available to view on television and online. A concise yet comprehensive publication will also be developed as an educational resource.
“This event seeks to reinforce the incredible work already being undertaken by various groups and individuals in support of heritage, racial justice and community building in Bermuda. To name just a few, Community and Cultural Affairs ‘Heartbeats’ lecture series and Emancipation Committee, the Bermuda National Gallery, the Bermuda National Library, BIU’s ‘Workers Voice’, CURB Community Conversations, the Bermuda Heritage Museum, Chewstick Foundation, Tuckers Town Historical Society, Imagine Bermuda, Politica’s Thinkfest, the Roman Catholic Church’s’ Peace and Justice Lecture Series, the St. Georges Foundation, the National Museum of Bermuda and many more.
“It is hoped that the event inspires continued consideration of and curiosity in Bermuda’s history by all Bermudians and members of the Bermuda community.
“Special thanks to event sponsors: the Human Rights Commission, the Bermuda College, the Bermuda Bar Association, the Department of Community of Cultural Affairs, English Speaking Union of Bermuda, Oxford University History Faculty Sanderson Fund, together with individual sponsors.
“Tickets must be reserved. Please visit Evenbrite UK here [or just search online with the words: ‘Evenbrite, resistance, Bermuda’ and it will pop up!]. This is a free event but tickets must be reserved as seats are limited.
“The Symposium is on Saturday 3 November at the Bermuda College, Room G3100 from 9am until 5pm. Please email: bermudaraceresistance@gmail.com or call with any questions: 504-2543.”
Read More About
Category: All
