‘The Story of Us’ campaign ‘invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean’
Government is looking to get Bermuda on board with its CARICOM plans with a new public awareness campaign.
Following up on the release of the Green Paper on full CARICOM membership, the campaign is entitled ‘The Story of Us’.
A press release states that it “invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean, while engaging directly with the Green Paper, which outlines the case, the questions, and the protections associated with full CARICOM membership”.
A video message accompanies the launch of the campaign, featuring Former Premier Dr Ewart Brown, Former Deputy Premier Walter Roban, Former MP Walter Lister,Reverend Nicholas Tweed, Home Affairs Minister Alexa Lightbourne and others.
“If you look at the history of Bermuda, you don’t have to go too far to find that there’s always been a very strong connection,” says Dr Brown.
Walter Roban adds: “When you look at all the facts, t shows that we are inextricably connected to the Caribbean’s economic development, its historical development.”
Alexa Lightbourne concludes: “Bermuda’s story is a Caribbean story. Remember who you are and who we are.”
The Home Affairs Minister encouraged Bermudians to read the Green Paper, reflect on the information, and share their perspectives.
You can find the green paper and take a public consultation survey at togetherforcaricom.gov.bm.
So far, the survey indicates that out of 22 Bermudians who have responded, the majority consider stronger food security as the most important potential benefit of full CARICOM membership.
Government of Bermuda Press Release:
The Ministry of Home Affairs today launched The Story of US, a public engagement campaign designed to support informed national dialogue on Bermuda’s application for full membership in the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The campaign invites Bermudians to explore the historical and cultural connections between Bermuda and the Caribbean, while engaging directly with the Green Paper, which outlines the case, the questions, and the protections associated with full CARICOM membership. The campaign engagement can be seen here: Remember – The Story of Us.
Minister of Home Affairs, the Hon. Alexa N. H. Lightbourne, JP, MP, said, “This campaign is about grounding the conversation in who we are as a people. Bermuda’s connections to the Caribbean are reflected in our culture, our families, and our shared history.
“Deeper engagement with CARICOM is about building on those connections and bringing Bermuda into the centre of regional decision-making, ensuring our diverse community has a stronger voice on the issues that shape daily life, from food security and climate resilience to economic opportunity and skills development, while maintaining the protections and constitutional framework that define Bermuda.”
Since the release of the Green Paper on March 9th, there has been strong public interest across the community.
Minister Lightbourne added, “I have had meaningful engagement with Bermudians across the island. Some perspectives are supportive. Others raise important questions. That is exactly what consultation is about; thoughtful discussion grounded in accurate information.”
The Green Paper sets out key facts about what full membership would and would not change for Bermuda.
What does not change:
- Bermuda retains full control over its immigration policy. There is no automatic free movement of labour. The United Kingdom remains responsible for defence and external security. Bermuda’s laws, identity, and institutions remain distinctly Bermudian.
What could change:
- Bermuda could gain a voice and vote in regional decision-making. Access could expand to regional programmes, partnerships, and opportunities. Bermudians could help shape decisions on issues that already affect them and the island.
Any future steps would be measured and deliberate, consistent with Bermuda’s national interests and constitutional framework. The Ministry encourages all residents to participate in the consultation process by reading the Green Paper and sharing their views.
Members of the public can visit TogetherForCaricom to access the Green Paper, complete the public consultation survey, and learn more about upcoming engagement opportunities, including town halls and community discussions.
Minister Lightbourne concluded, “This is a moment for Bermudians to engage, to ask questions, and to consider what lies ahead. Read the Green Paper, reflect on the information, and share your perspective.”
