A walk for peace will mark anniversary of turbulent times
During a chilly early morning – February 2, 1965 – along Serpentine Rd, at the main gate of Belco, several dozen picketers paraded slowly on the third week of a strike by 90 Belco workers, calling for the right for union recognition.
Around 8.30 am, the weight of multiple tensions – the resistance of an Old Order, the concerned awareness of a New Order – gave way, erupting into violence that took its toll.
That crisis cast an unprecedented dark cloud over the Island. However, even with Tear Gas wafting as far as Front Street, police sirens blaring, Hospital wards over-crowding and Prison cell doors clanking; enough “Bermudians of Conscience”. exercised their agency.
On Monday, February 2, 2026 at Noon, “Bermudians of Conscience” are invited to come together at the Belco Parking Lot – along Serpentine Road – and begin a SILENT WALK FOR PEACE & COMMUNITY. Partially inspired by the Buddhist Monks Walk for Peace; the WALK will proceed to Devonshire Recreation Club (Frog Lane).
To be clear, this Walk if both an opportunity to draw lessons from our shared legacy, but will also leverage any positives – the reconciliation and healing potential – as we address current challenges – notably those caught in the Cycle of Violence.
It is estimated that the 1.75 mile WALK along Palmetto Rd will take around 45 minutes, to reach the grounds of the Devonshire Recreation Club (pls pronounce Ree..Creation for the occasion). Following the WALK; those gathering will: engage in Fostering COMMUNITY: Meet Someone New – Plus, Join in Dialogue around the LESSONS offered by this Shared Legacy.
This INVITATION is opened to ALL residents of Bermuda. Already joining are, elders of conscience, former Police, current trade unionists, social activists, children from 3 different schools.
That referenced Legacy includes; how in February 1965 “Bermudians of Conscience” ‘RESPONDED’ rather than ‘Reacted’ in the face of painful circumstances. This included: (Details can be found in ‘A History of the BIU’ by Ira Phillip – noted journalist)
