Column: Fubler On Culture, Bermuda Day & More
[Opinion column written by Senator Mischa Fubler]
For too long, it was said “Bermuda has no culture.”
Some viewed culture as something nice to have, but not something worth investing in.
We see things differently.
We reject the notion that Bermuda has no culture. We believe that Bermuda has a rich and vibrant history, from which a culture emerged that is a mix of 100% Bermudian homegrown, alongside bits and pieces from other countries or cultures that we have embraced and made uniquely our own.
Bermudian culture is in the stories we tell, the music we create, the traditions passed down through generations. It’s our history, our pride, and our legacy. And when we invest in culture, we’re investing in Bermuda’s most precious resource; our people.
To us culture is a priority and we are demonstrating it by:
- Investing in “Maker Spaces” to give Bermudian creatives the tools and spaces they need to thrive.
- Investing in cultural and entertainment events that bring locals and visitors together
- Investing in the digitizing of The Bermuda National Library’ resources to make our history more accessibie to more Bermudians, enhancing youth services, and preserving our literary heritage.
- Investing in our elite athletes
- Increasing investment in our sports and community clubs
Much more needs to be done, but this is an unprecedented step forward towards a Bermuda where an artist deserves the same respect as an actuary or dancer matters just as much as a developer.
Most of us will have a day off on Friday for Bermuda Day, yet how many of us have forgotten or never knew why we celebrate it? Bermuda Day emerged from struggle for freedom, justice, and an end to racial bigotry and discrimination. After the riots of the 70s, the Pitt Commission called for healing and unity. The result? Heritage Month and Bermuda Day, a day for us, by us, to celebrate who we are.
We used to celebrate “Empire Day,” and later “Commonwealth Day” in Bermuda as a reminder of our status as a colony. We turned that centuries old symbol of colonial rule, into a celebration of Bermudian identity. That’s Bermudian people power at work and that’s one of the many reasons why we continue to support it..
Culture builds community. It creates jobs. It heals trauma. It fuels joy. So when we choose to fund culture, we’re not wasting money, we’re saying loud and clear that Bermudians, in all our brilliance and creativity, deserve to be seen, supported, and celebrated.
We believe in a Bermuda where young artists don’t always have to leave home to chase their dreams. Where culture is not just performed but protected. Where the next generation knows they belong because their voice, their art, their story matters.
That’s the future we’re making steady progress towards seeing become a reality.
Have a Happy Bermuda Day!
- Mischa Fubler, Junior Minister for Culture, Constituency #30, Southampton East Central, Senator
For extensive coverage of Bermuda Day spanning the past 15 years, visit our website BDADay.com, the island’s most comprehensive resource on the Bermuda Day holiday.
- Over 8,000 photos here
- Over 200 videos here
- Holiday graphics here
- History of the race here
- Bermuda Day Timeline here
- Dedicated website: BDADay.com
“For too long, it was said “Bermuda has no culture.””
Who said that? I have never heard that said.