Community leaders reflect on a turning point in Bermuda’s history, with celebratory events to follow
A group of community members, including the Mayor of Hamilton and a former politician, gathered yesterday to reflect on the impact of the Theatre Boycott, more than six decades after the historic event.
A media release issued by Glenn Fubler stated:
“We are here formally launching the celebration of the 66th Anniversary of the Success of the Boycott. The mindful actions of ordinary people opened movie theatres, restaurants and hotels in the first instance. That same momentum eventually ended formal segregation/apartheid and was key in establishing the right to vote.
“The effective strategy developed by the Progressive Group set the stage. Those that rallied around Church, Wesley & Queen streets sustained the flame of that peaceful protest, effectively opening Bermuda.
“The success of the Boycott demonstrated the potential of collaboration occurring across generations. The 1940’s campaigning of the Bermuda Workers Association provided a foundation for progress in later decades. Efforts by activist in the early 1950’s – such as the protest at the Bermudiana Hotel Theatre proved to be exemplary. Other groups helped to ‘till the soil’, which allowed us – as the collective Bermuda – to grow towards our better selves.
“Thus, the theme: “Open Hearts, Open Minds” offers us encouragement to reflect in appreciation for ‘those on whose shoulders we stand’. As we respond by reaching out to others in our families, neighbourhoods, island and world, we enhance both ourselves and our community.”
Below is the full press conference featuring remarks from John Barritt, former United Bermuda Party government minister; Charles Gosling, Mayor of Hamilton; and 99 year-old Izola Harvey, a member of the group that led the boycott.
Upcoming events to mark the anniversary:
Wednesday, July 2
12:30 PM – 1:30 PM
Interactive Gathering at Cathedral Hall
Special guest Rev. Kingsley Tweed will share “nutshell” recollections of his role as the ‘Voice’ of the Boycott Rally. He will also perform piano and song.
Facilitation Team for the Interactive Dialogue:
Nekesha Holdipp, Sandy Butterfield, Darius Richardson, and Glenn Fubler
7:00 PM – 7:30 PM
Harbour Night Celebration
Music Presentations: Ed Christopher and Willard Burch
Theatre Boycott Skit: Ensemble includes Kathy Kawaley, Michelle Cooper, Nikita Robinson, Leighton Rochester, Richie Latham; coordinated by Rotimi Martins
