Wednesday, 8 July 2009
Bermuda Shorts
On July 2nd, 1959 black movie goers protesting at segregation in 
Bermuda's cinemas started a two-week standoff which ultimately led to the end of segregaton not only in cinemas and theatre's but also hotels, restaurants and schools. Seems incredible doesn't it?
However to celebrate the 50th anniversery a small park has been established across the road from my office and opposite the cinema where the protest took place. Honestly it is a bit of a nonentity to look at, and incredibly took almost 4 months to complete but it does come with a striking eight-foot bronze statue by Bermudian sculptor Chesley Trott entitled 'When Voices Rise' costing a cool $140,000.
As I passed it daily I watched this project with interest, which included cutting down a couple of trees, and replacing them with concrete pavers. However it is a credible undertaking to honour the end of institutionalised racism on the Island, particularly at a tricky time in the countries next chapter of race relations. ¶ 13:09
On July 2nd, 1959 black movie goers protesting at segregation in 
Bermuda's cinemas started a two-week standoff which ultimately led to the end of segregaton not only in cinemas and theatre's but also hotels, restaurants and schools. Seems incredible doesn't it?However to celebrate the 50th anniversery a small park has been established across the road from my office and opposite the cinema where the protest took place. Honestly it is a bit of a nonentity to look at, and incredibly took almost 4 months to complete but it does come with a striking eight-foot bronze statue by Bermudian sculptor Chesley Trott entitled 'When Voices Rise' costing a cool $140,000.
As I passed it daily I watched this project with interest, which included cutting down a couple of trees, and replacing them with concrete pavers. However it is a credible undertaking to honour the end of institutionalised racism on the Island, particularly at a tricky time in the countries next chapter of race relations. ¶ 13:09
