Race Relations: Back To Square One

Some are asking whether Bermuda's newest nighclub, Square One, is racist, following a report in yesterday's Royal Gazette that former reporter Ayo Johnson was refused admission to the club's VIP room last Friday. Mr. Johnson also alleged that Mid Ocean News columnist Nicolette Reiss told him that she had had the same experience when visiting the club with a black friend. The Gazette's Chief Reporter, Cathy Stovell, added to the controversy by saying that when she was at the club with a "very dark skinned gentleman" recently, none of the waiters would serve them drinks.

Given this, you would have thought that the club would be anxious to communicate its side of the story. Yet according to the Gazette, "Square One management refused to comment".

That Ms. Stovell was not served proves nothing. I have had a great deal of trouble getting served in bars on a several occasions when I have not been accompanied by a black friend. Mr. Johnson's allegations, however, are more troubling. Unfortunately, my attempts to contact him and Ms. Reiss were unsuccessful. And neither Square One nor its predecessor, Blue Juice, are listed in the phonebook.

In the absence of further information, speculation about the policies of Square One's management is likely to be rife. It's therefore in their interest to publicly explain what happened to Mr. Johnson as soon as possible. Silence will only be interpreted by some as an admission of guilt.

Update: I have been informed that the Gazette's report presented an unbalanced view. Apparently, that section of Square One was reserved for the night for a private party, to which Mr. Johnson was not invited. I have heard that the individual who was hosting the party intends to submit a letter to the editor to make that point clear.

Comments

[Swingline on 27.05.05 at 14:37]

This is absurd. What's the big deal - I've been refused in there aswell because it is a VIP room...you have to buy a bottle to get in, you can't wonder in to VIP rooms. As for not getting service in bars/clubs here....it's bermuda and on a weekend it can be a wait to get a drink, unless of course you know the bartender.
Why is it always a race issue?

[Martin on 27.05.05 at 15:04]

Swingline...

The answer is that that is how we often feel when a Bartender looks at you, and then serves someone else behind you with a different skin colour...whether you are black or white.

Explain this to me. I took my car in for a 5000 service (I won't name the garage). The major part of this service is change oil - change plugs.

I was the only white person booking the car in at 8.15am. They suggested I phone at 10.30/11.00. It was ready at 3.30pm. The reception girls had finished except one.

What am I to think....that it was a difficult job?

It's in your face here so often.

[jake on 27.05.05 at 15:05]

Phil,

In any major city clubs choose who they will allow in based on wealth, good looks, race, weight, and style of dress.

Bermuda is a small country. People tend to view themselves as equally entitled to everything that everyone else has.

This is a mistaken view, in my opinion.

It is a private club and perhaps Ayo did not fit the selection criteria.

For example:

"Mr. Johnson said he asked the manager what he meant by “only certain types of people” but the manager offered no explanation.
“I then explained to him that if by certain types of people he meant black people, dressed in jeans and t-shirt, with locks, I personally had no problem with it because I don’t want to spend my money where I’m not wanted, but it’s only fair that they display a notice to that effect. Which of course would be illegal,” he said."

Unless he were a VIP (a real one like Ziggy Marley or Lenny Kravitz) then no, he would not fit the criteria in many clubs in the world. So what?

VIP means that the management reserves the right to tell you they do not think you are important. That's why it feels so good when they tell you that you are. If Ayo had a reputation for spending money in the club - no matter how he was dressed, they would let him in and treat him well.

If you can't pay - you can't play. That's just how it is in the clubs. You have to tip the waiters, you have to tip the door guy, you have to spend on champagne and bring pretty girls with you.

By the way, none of the above makes you important. Just important to the club owner/staff who will put you in a room with other's who do the same.

[Onion on 27.05.05 at 15:11]

Swingline, your response is predictable. No doubt there will be many like you on this blog who will chime in with similar, "what's the big deal?" sentiments.

As this story came from the Royal Gazette I am inclined to take it with a grain of salt as I did with respect to the story of Randy Horton on the plane. However, the difference in this scenario that the actual victim is giving his account of what happened. Additionally, although the club has had ample opportunity to respond to what happened we have heard nothing from then. Their silence is deafening. In Horton's situation the story came from an anonymous source, and Horton responded within hours to the media with his version.

Until we get all the facts we may never know what truly transpired. Nevertheless, it is sad that persons such as Swingline, and no doubt many others, will quickly dismiss Ayo's story as foolishness despite the fact that he was allegedly told "only certain types of people" are allowed in VIP lounge. No doubt many of the same people will QUICKLY latch on to a flaky story coming from an anonymous source stating that a minister on a plane said, "do you know who I am."

I do not know Ayo personally but I do know that he is an educated, intelligent journalist. Could it be that his account just might be true?

[Swingline on 27.05.05 at 16:08]

Onion
If Ayo was denied on Race it is definitely a terrible thing but I was just commenting because when a lot of people in Bermuda don't get what they want it becomes a race issue.

[Bill Cook on 27.05.05 at 16:22]

ONION,

Dan Rather was an intelligent journalist too

guess what happened to him ?

I dont know him personally either.

[Onion on 27.05.05 at 16:33]

What's your point Bill? Was Dan Rather present to give an eye witness acount during George Bush's stint in the military?

[Bill Cook on 27.05.05 at 16:35]

Which stint was that onion ?

[Onion on 27.05.05 at 16:39]

Swingline,

As I said, I don't exactly what transpired but neither I nor you are in a position to rule out Ayo's claim. Yes, some black AND white people will cry racism at the drop of a hat. But you cannot assume that is what happened here. Neither of us were present and neither of us can verify what happened. It is a point of conern that the club has not responded. Black people patronize the club and Tuscany restaurant. They would want to respond swiftly if they were smart.

[suzanne mayall on 27.05.05 at 16:42]

I think that the most disturbing point of the story is being missed in this discussion. The white people let into the VIP room came out of the VIP room to discuss with Ayo how racist they thought the policy was. They then went BACK IN and partied. If you identify a practise as racist - surely the obvious next step is to make make your feelings known about it and take a stand. Too often we compain without taking any action. Rather then question Ayo's credentials on identifying a racism, I think we should all be taking a hard look at ourselves and how we react when conftronted with an unjust situation. It may sound corny, but creating a more just society starts with each of us acting with awareness and integrity and requires putting our principles before our comfort and pleasure.

[Onion on 27.05.05 at 16:44]

Bill, I assume you are tangentially talking about the bogus story CBS did on Bush's military record are you not?

[Onion on 27.05.05 at 16:46]

Well said Suzanne!!! Where have you been hiding?

[Bill Cook on 27.05.05 at 17:12]

Onion,

I dont think the story was bogus, it was the source that was bogus, not quite the same thing.

That was TANGENTIAL.

My point was however, that one can be intelligent and educated and still be a duplictious asshole, Hitler for example was a talented journalist and author.

On the incident in question I was not there and feel its foolish to entertain comments until we know more than we do at present.

[canuck on 27.05.05 at 17:59]

Predictably,the race prophets on this site cry foul over a missunderstanding at a bar.

I can recal,when a teenager, a bouncer slamming a door in my face in Calgary with " we have enough coloureds in here" because I have indo skin colouring. I didn't have a nervous breakdown,likewise I have seen whites,asians and portuguese treated worse than dogs by Bermudaian blacks.

why is every event made into a race battle in the new Bermuda?

why no cries of outrage over professor Sean at Bermuda college? or Rebecca Middeltons sadistic murder and mutiliation,or the recent Canadian women tourists beaten to a pulp?

your self rightrous hypocracy is mind boggling.

[Terry on 27.05.05 at 18:41]

Mr. Cook, then let us just chill, to quote you. I have no more comments on this. Thats what I have said in all my Posts. See what it is, then run, or confront it.

Terry.

[loki on 27.05.05 at 19:09]

"I think that the most disturbing point of the story is being missed in this discussion. The white people let into the VIP room came out of the VIP room to discuss with Ayo how racist they thought the policy was. They then went BACK IN and partied."

With all due respect, that's bullshit. THIS is what the article actually said about Mr. Johnson's friends:

"Mr. Johnson said none of the so-called “rules” applied to ZBM news anchor Kim Wheddon who had been allowed to enter the VIP lounge ahead of him.
Mr. Johnson said she came out to find him and informed the bouncer that he was with her.
But Mr. Johnson said he was already upset by the incident and instead went over to the bar where he told the bartender what had happened."

And, also:

"He said he stood waiting for his other friends to arrive when Jon Legere walked in with a group. Mr.Johnson said he told them the same story, but when Mr. Legere walked up to the bouncer, he was allowed the enter the VIP room."

And:

“Perhaps the most disturbing thing about is that none of my alleged friends actually stood up to the establishment. They recognised the thing as unjust and went in anyway."

NOWHERE is it stated that they recognised the policy as racist. You will note that Phil has updated his commentary on this (prior to these follow-up comments, I would add) to say that Ayo Johnson will be clarifying his remarks to state that a private party, to which he was not invited, was in progress in the VIP area. Maybe Mr. Johnson's friends were invited and tried to get him in, to no avail. Maybe they thought that it was unjust that they couldn't get him in even though they were invited. Who knows? But don't libel these people by saying that they recognised that racism was being practiced but continued to patronize the establishment anyway.

[loki on 27.05.05 at 19:13]

Oh, and another thing: when I first read the article, I found it pretty damning, to say the least. However, one glaring issue that I spotted is that there's no way that I would expect to get into the VIP room at a nightclub if I was wearing jeans and a T-Shirt. Maybe if I was P.Diddy, Kid Rock or Michael Jordan, but otherwise? Forget it.

[jake on 27.05.05 at 19:59]

Canuck,

That is a stupid comment to make. No one denies that Rebecca Middleton's murder was terrible and it has nothing to do with race. It was a murder. That is what was terrible.

Secondly, we are not race prophets - and I don't think it was such a big deal that he was barred entry. He did not fit the VIP bill. End of story.

Finally, I think what happened to Sean O'Connell was terrible. And I have said so.

Seeing that you missed all of the above I would suggest that your hatred is manifest, and sad. Stop hating black people for the wrong that individual black people do and have done. We are not blocked into some monolith acting in concert. Many black people feel the same offence that you do over crime - perpetuated by black and white people. That seems to have eluded you completely.

[nicolette on 27.05.05 at 20:58]

Phil
Thanks for spelling my name correctly.

[Thor on 27.05.05 at 22:30]

He said he stood waiting for his other friends to arrive when Jon Legere walked in with a group. Mr.Johnson said he told them the same story, but when Mr. Legere walked up to the bouncer, he was allowed the enter the VIP room.
He said they pointed over to him at the bar and said he was with them, but still the bouncer would not let him in.
“Most of my friends, all white, are in the VIP room, but ////I’m not allowed in without an explanation////, even when they vouch for me,” he said.
Mr. Johnson said ////he never accused the club of being racist////, even though he was the only black person in the group and [was the only one denied access, but he deserved an explanation].
///////“The irony was that I invited about eight people to go to the place in the first place,” he said.///////
“Perhaps the most disturbing thing about is that none of my alleged friends actually stood up to the establishment. They recognised the thing as unjust and went in anyway,” he said.
Mr. Johnson said he felt it was in the public interest for Square One to [explain publicly what the policy was on its so-called VIP room.]
“And perhaps [examine the responsibility of white folks in addressing what they themselves see as racism,”] he said.

Private party or not, it appears that those with him were allowed in, but he was not for some reason.

Johnson invited 8 friends to go with him. Even if this was purely over a dresscode, those friends should have left with him. Not out of disgust over the dresscode, but because they are supposed to be partying together. His "friends" suck.

By not even saying that there is a dress code issue, Square Onesleaves themselves open to a question of racism, as many other things - like being VIP snobs (redundant). It would have been quite easy to say that the dresscode was the issue, and they had an exellent opportunity to communicate that casual dress would not be allowed. So they do bear some responsibility for whatever accusations follow. Was any of his other friends dressed casually and allowed in? Hmm...

As for his friends, should they have left if they suspected that it might have been racism? Should they have discussed the scenario with him instead of ignoring what happened? Did they feel that Johnson was underdressed when compared to the other patrons? Did they even remotely suspect that it was rascim? Is it even remotely possible that this might have been racism?

Does racism exist even though you might not possess tangible proof of it?

[The Limey on 27.05.05 at 23:24]

Loki

I misunderstood the information I was told when I said that Mr. Johnson will be clarifying his remarks. In fact, it's the person who was holding the private party in the VIP room who will be clarifying what happened.

As far as I can tell, Mr. Johnson seems to have been unaware that a private party was in progress, to which he was not invited. The gentleman who was hosting the party (and picking up the tab for everyone's drinks) didn't know Mr. Johnson and so didn't want to invite him in.

If this was indeed the situation, then Mr. Johnson had no right to expect to be admitted, or to expect the other guests who were welcome to leave in protest.

I emphasise that this is only my understanding of the situation at the current time, and it could be wrong.

I find it interesting that some of the people who criticised me (probably rightly) for being too quick to fault Randy Horton over the AA incident a couple of weeks ago are now the ones who are quick to fault Square One over this one. Just as Randy Horton's actions proved to be understandable (although it seems that he could have conducted himself in a more professional manner), so it seems increasingly likely that Square One's decision not to admit Mr. Johnson was understandable too (although it seems that they could have explained themselves more clearly to him at the time).

[canuck on 28.05.05 at 03:13]

jake,your rant proves my point,don't throw stones if you live in a glass house,its race prophets like you who are shmashing up Bermuda's fragile glass house

[Morgans Rum on 28.05.05 at 03:24]

From one of the patrons involved, Mr Johnson was not a member of their party at any stage of the evening. When he attempted to enter the VIP lounge, as part of the party identified by him in the story, he was wearing a sweat top, which was deamed to be inappropriate clothing by the management.
Lets face it, a club management, reserves the right to admit patrons to a VIP lounge based on dress. You wouldn't turn up to dinner the Newport room in a track suit would you?
It would seem Mr Johnson has a certain chip on his shoulder. To think that this story made the newspaper, degrades the value of the Royal Gazette, in that it did not verify the facts before running the story.
Bermuda has enough of a problem with race relations, without the daily running bogus stories.

[Cafe Au Lait on 28.05.05 at 08:48]

"To think that this story made the newspaper, degrades the value of the Royal Gazette, in that it did not verify the facts before running the story."

I second this opinion. I am of mixed race. I have have encountered direct racism from both blacks and whites in Bermuda. Some of these incidents were trivial, some hurt me deeply. But I cannot imagine I would ever have gone running to the Press to blow up an incident of what seems to have been attempted gate-crashing into a full-scale racist crisis. Would the Gazette even have published this story if it had involved a member of the general public rather than one of its former employees? I think not. With all of the genuine examples of racism that the RG could focus on, I think to have gone "full speed ahead" with this particular report reflects badly on the newspaper. And because of the "Boy Who Cried Wolf" overtones to this report, it will also undermine the cause of those who *DO* encounter legitimate racism and make it harder for them to be both heard and believed.

[Lurker on 28.05.05 at 09:17]

"I find it interesting that some of the people who criticised me (probably rightly) for being too quick to fault Randy Horton over the AA incident a couple of weeks ago are now the ones who are quick to fault Square One over this one."

There are several who are quick to say it definitely isn't racism, but who has been quick to find fault with Square One?

Swingline - Defintiely not racism
Martin - Defintiely not racism
Jake - Perhaps not racism (VIP clubs are elite)
Onion - Don't have all the facts yet (not surprised at people who immediately dismiss it as racism)
Bill Cook - Defintiely not racism
Suzanne Mayall - Misread the story (if racism, whites need to stand up and be counted)
Canuck - Defintiely not racism (the race profits are at it again)
Terry - Chill out, not enough details
Loki - Clarified the story (Definitely not racism?)
Thor - Could be racism (his friends suck for not partying elsewhere)
Morgan's Rum - Defintiely not racism, Johnson has a chip on his shoulder

[Bill Cook on 28.05.05 at 09:44]

Lurker,
I note you have entered my name in your comment, where you find that I am categorised as "DEFINATELY NON RACIST"

Which part or parts of my comments led you to that conclusion ?

My comments were on unrelated and possibly predudicial comments equating moral integrity with education intelligence and occupation.

When I have ALL the facts for my inspection only then will I comment on my findings and conclusions, so I would appreciate that you dont pre empt my conclusions with your conclusions.

[The Limey on 28.05.05 at 10:15]

Lurker - There were a flurry of comments on this subject on the 'Grandstanding' thread on Thursday morning, soon after the story was published, which I deleted because they were off topic. I was then accused of censorship by one of those commenters. Another individual emailed me directly (before I published this post) to ask where the outrage from the white community was on this issue and why I had not yet commented on it.

[Terry on 28.05.05 at 13:15]

I agree with what Phil has said. I was one of the ones he mentioned. I can't remember exactly what I said but it was very short and basicaly said what I have said previously. Just a couple of words like 'lets chill or wait to we have somemore facts. It was deleted. Phil sent me an e.mail to explain why. I appologised for the Post., I just pulled up something, saw the remarks and replied. I jumped the gun, it was a mistake for not reading the Post, just the comments.

Since I had 11 screws put in my neck (spine) I may a screw loose thats why I am in such pain. Theres nothing they can do, so I will take one day at a time. I look forward to most of the comments because sometimes people say things that they would not normally say to your face. This brings out dialogue and sometimes suppressed feelings which can be good or bad. I did my time serving the Bermuda Government. I also enjoyed the antics of Dame Louis Browne, and Austin Thomas. Especially Freddie Wade. He was a good Man. There were some I had no time for and I won't mention them because thats in the past. Same goes for the Opposition of today. There were some good ones, some really out to get what they could.

Just one further comment, and please don't jump all over me. I wish that ALL the participants who regularly Post on this site, could somehow get together over a few fish cakes, peas and rice and a couple (note Couple) of greenies and get it out in the open amongst themselves. A better feeling would come about I'm sure on how one feels and what needs to be done.

Make your opinions and group discoveries known.
The Yanks stole our Onion seeds years ago, don't let them steal our seedlings and transplants.
It's up to us.

I have to go to Italy for a month, next week.A little close to the action. Are'nt you all glad that this turmoil is not taking place on our turf.? Lets not let it happen.

There is a funny but true statement made years ago about this beer (sorry Bear), "only you can prevent forest fires". Lets give up the matches and lighters, keep our tanks full and put out any sign of empending fires.

If I bored you, good. At least I got your attention, and thats good too. Have a wonderfull day and keep an eye on your neighbour, you might need him/her and they and others sure need you.

Terry.

[Onion on 28.05.05 at 20:31]

Limey says:

"I find it interesting that some of the people who criticised me (probably rightly) for being too quick to fault Randy Horton over the AA incident a couple of weeks ago are now the ones who are quick to fault Square One over this one. Just as Randy Horton's actions proved to be understandable (although it seems that he could have conducted himself in a more professional manner), so it seems increasingly likely that Square One's decision not to admit Mr. Johnson was understandable too (although it seems that they could have explained themselves more clearly to him at the time)."

Limey, exactly who are you referring to? I believe it was only Jake and I on this thread who criticised you with respect to the Horton story. I certainly prefaced my comments on tis thread by saying that I take what the RG says with a grain of salt, as I did with the Horton case, and that I do not know all the facts. Jake said this type of thing is normal with night clubs. So who are you referring to?

[Onion on 28.05.05 at 21:01]

What is clear to me is the same people on this thread saw the Horton story in the RG it was "Horton guilty, guilty guilty!!!!! Case closed." The blog got a FLURRY of emails from people condemning Horton the same day the story came out.

Now with regard to the Square One story we hear all sorts of theories from these people excusing the club for what may have happened or denying the validity of the story. No such scrutiny was exercised with the Horton story.

In BOTH cases I have expressed my doubts over the validity of the RG story.

When Nelson Basome's son was given probabtion for importing drugs most white Bermudians went crazy. When the Bromby brothers were given an absolute discharge for assaulting a 75 year old man you could hear a pin drop amongst most of you.

Like it or not, this is why we have a racial division in Bermuda. We usually just see things differently.

[Onion on 28.05.05 at 21:36]

Canuck writes,

"why no cries of outrage over professor Sean at Bermuda college? or Rebecca Middeltons sadistic murder and mutiliation,or the recent Canadian women tourists beaten to a pulp?"

Where was your outrage at Shaundae Jones case, Bromby verdict, the twins murder???

I notice you never did respond to my comments about Dr. Philip Rushton, Canadian immigration policies or treatment of Native Canadians by the government.

Sort out your own Canadian politics and social issues before you lecture me on mine.

[jake on 29.05.05 at 09:34]

Canuck,

Help me to understand how I am a race prophet for agreeing with you on Sean O'Connell, the Middleton murder and the Ayo Johnson affair.

In fact, what is a race prophet anyway? Do I predict the future of race relations or something?

[Ayo Johnson on 29.05.05 at 18:19]

As discussed yesterday with Phil Wells I have been following comments on the Square One story intermittently and would like to explain the reason why I have in fact been silent – and probably will be for at least a few more days.
For one thing I very rarely post to a Bda blog – having endured reading a blogger’s opinion that I should be sent home to Sierra Leone where I can have my hands chopped off.
For another thing I’ve been quite sick this week with a high fever. I’m explaining this because it looks like the story is heading the way of a credibility contest between people who once considered themselves friends.
Kim Wheddon and I had a fundamental difference of opinion over my decision on how to address our experience at Square One.
Frankly, if I had known how deeply wounded she (and Jon Legere) would feel afterward, I would probably have done things differently.
I have already apologized to Jon for not informing him beforehand that I had contacted the newspaper, and I had also offered to make a public statement (following anything he said publicly) that would help repair what he said was damage to his reputation caused by the story.
Kim was informed and I expected her to give the daily her own full version of what happened, but she decided not to – partly, or mainly, because she wanted to protect her privacy.
To explain and clarify all the events of that night now would mean dragging her name through the glare of publicity again. And knowing how painful it has been for her, I’d rather have a chat with her first so we can attempt to resolve our differences and I can explain my original intentions.
Needless to say she’s not returning my phone calls. So it is beginning to look as if I’ve lost my star witness.
I simply hope that her anger at me, and her and Jon’s perceived need to do all they can to protect their reputations, is not going to translate into a campaign to revise history and discredit me.
That would be quite tragic – considering that these are quite young people who have a lot to gain by developing a reputation of integrity, despite the occasional discomfort that path entails.
I already see signs of such a campaign, and am hoping and praying that my friends are not leading it because I’m still hopeful that everything (our friendships and some meaningful discussion about personal responsibility) can be salvaged to everyone’s satisfaction if we just talk for a while.
But if it does come to that, expect a very robust, no holds barred defence from my corner.
So bring it on, if you must. Send your letters to the Editor, form alliances and give it your best shot.

ayo johnson

[Terry on 29.05.05 at 19:01]

Ayo, thats quite a statement. I will not be like ohters and spend three hours trying to figure out a response. I would just say this. 'Choose your friends, and if someting like this happens, guess what. You know the answer. In my 55yrs on earth, I have never been treeted like you say you were. I never put myself in that position, and if I was, just look back reflect, and have a cold one.

Start the next day anew.

Best wishes.

Terry.

[loki on 29.05.05 at 19:03]

Thank you for your comments, Ayo. Can you confirm whether or not the VIP room had, in fact, been reserved for a private party to which you had not been invited? I think that this is the crux of the matter, really. Well, this together with the dress code. As I mentioned previously in this thread, I would not expect to get into a VIP room at a night club wearing jeans and a T-Shirt unless I was P.Diddy, Kid Rock or Michael Jordan. What were other people wearing? Much the same as you? I'm not saying this to be facetious, I'm genuinely interested in having this story clarified. Are you still of the view that you were turned away on the grounds of race? I know that you did not specifically make this accusation, but this is clearly implied. If you do believe that your were discriminated against, what is the basis of this belief?
I must say that I was completely shocked by your decision to 'name names' and throw Kim and Jon under a bus. I don't know Kim at all, but I do know Jon and, frankly, can't think of anybody less likely to tolerate blantantly discriminatory behaviour on the part of an establishment. If he's upset with you (and I don't blame him, if he was unaware that you would be specifically naming him), bear in mind that he's recently set up his own multimedia company and, therefore, any negative publicity could have a detrimental effect on his business.

[ayo johnson on 29.05.05 at 20:24]

The dress code stuff is a red herring for two reasons. One, I gained admission to the general establishment which would not have been possible had I been inappropriately dressed. And secondly, Square One had the opportunity (which I in fact presented to them) to say I was inapproriately dressed. My question to Ross, the manager, about "black guy with locks dressed in jeans and tee shirt" was partly an indirect reference to dress code. He could have said "if you were wearing a tee shirt you would be inadmissible, yes," and answered both questions at the same time. Because guess what? I was not wearing a tee shirt. In fact, the dress code is posted down the stairs. Jon, in fact, was wearing a tee shirt.
I had on brown shoes. jeans, a reddish long sleeve shirt and, initially, a not inexpensive fleece sweater I bought in Amsterdam earlier this year.
I spent considerable time at the space trying to get a reasonable answer from those guys. I wasn't belligerent, but I did get a bit pissed because the answers weren't forthcoming. How easy would it have been to say "the room is booked for a private party?"
The irony is that I don't really like the lounge. Personally, I think it resembles an airport lounge... it's been my favourite joke since it opened.
I have not accused anybody ever in my life of racism. It's one of my life's rules... and the reason is that I've watched too many conversations about race degenerate when a black person tells his experience and gets the response that he has a chip on the shoulder. That effectively invalidates everything else he has to say from that point on because the other is clearly unwilling (or unable) to be open to what he says his experience is. There are other reasons why I won't make that accusation publicly even if I believe it to be true. But let's leave it there for now. Basically, it's no good black folks talking about their experiences with race because nobody really listens (just look at the inane stuff on this blog, for example).
So ideally, you want white folks to bring it up on behalf of black people when they see it happening. More people would listen if white persons expressed THEIR view that racism had occurred. The experience at Square One provided an opportunity for such a dialogue - unfortunately I managed it badly on a personal front, and the daily could have done a more robust, thorough, treatment of it.
The reason I asked so many questions of the establishment is to find out the answer (obviously). If so many possibilities are eliminated, then the real reason becomes clearer. I have not and do not accuse the club of racial discrimination. But I'm still waiting for an answer... But even if I do come to that conclusion I would have a slimmer chance of prevailing at convincing you or anybody else because of the reluctant/hostile witness issue, and my credibility would have been tarnished by media coverage of people's efforts at damage control.
There are some things I won't say publicly at the moment for reasons already discussed.
Sorry, can't help you further. But you'll often find me at Rock Island if you want to chat about it directly.

[loki on 29.05.05 at 21:20]

"One, I gained admission to the general establishment which would not have been possible had I been inappropriately dressed."

Good point. The dress code IS very prominently displayed, I agree. Also, it did occur to me that Jon would probably be wearing a T-shirt, or so some other kind of casual wear.

"He could have said "if you were wearing a tee shirt you would be inadmissible, yes," and answered both questions at the same time."

I agree. The fact that the management has yet to issue any kind of rebuttal or explanation is disturbing.

"I wasn't belligerent, but I did get a bit pissed because the answers weren't forthcoming."

If no one could or would tell you why you were being denied entry, I certainly wouldn't blame you for getting 'a bit pissed', but having met you a few times and seen you around Rock Island, I can't imagine you being belligerent, even in the face of completely racist bullshit. I'd be very suspicious if the official management line over the next few days was the stereotypical 'black man with chip on shoulder gets belligerent and is denied entry' schtick.

"The irony is that I don't really like the lounge. Personally, I think it resembles an airport lounge... it's been my favourite joke since it opened."

I agree. I haven't even tried to go in, because it looks like somewhere I wouldn't want to hang out: an overly designed lounge, created to appeal to 'the beautiful people', selling overpriced drinks to those that know no better. I'm not saying that's what it is, or that's who it does appeal to, but that's certainly my impression. It looks like every elitist bar that I couldn't get into whilst I was living in London!

"How easy would it have been to say "the room is booked for a private party?"

Incredibly easy, you're right. That was the reason that I thought clarification was necessary. If it was reserved for a private party, I can't understand why no one would say this to you.

"Sorry, can't help you further. But you'll often find me at Rock Island if you want to chat about it directly."

If I see you in there, I will do so, believe me.

For my part, I agree that you could have done things differently on a personal level. Jon, I respect immensely and think of him as a very nice guy, indeed. Kim, I don't know, but she seems to be a very decent person, from the little I know of her. I have a hard time believing that either could have been cognizant of discrimination against you and yet stand by an do nothing.

Insofar as the establishment is concerned, you have done and said more than enough to put the ball firmly in management's court. Unless they can give a satisfacory explanation of why you were denied admittence, I will certainly not patronize the night club or the associated restaurant. This is not an idle threat: I have never stepped foot in a certain well-known South Shore private members club due to certain remarks made by management that were relayed to me contemporaneously by my then girlfriend who worked at the front desk there.........

[Onion on 29.05.05 at 21:32]

Ayo,

It is a shame but persons like Loki,are more interested in protecting reputation of your white friends who were present that night than just respecting your comments. Even though YOU were there and this happened to YOU and Loki was not present, typically Loki manages to question the credibility of your story. Somehow, your version just couldn't be accurate.

Loki, what does Jon's multimedia company have to do with the price of tea in chile? Ayo is a journalist and is employed with government. Has he not got a reputation to protect???

As per my comments above people only develop a social conscience when they are affected, or people like them are affected. I am starting to believe it is futile to continue to participate in a blog like this on these issues. I can relate to Ayo's comment when he says that if a black calls someone out on a racial issue he has a chip on his shoulder.

[loki on 29.05.05 at 21:46]

"Loki, what does Jon's multimedia company have to do with the price of tea in chile? Ayo is a journalist and is employed with government. Has he not got a reputation to protect???"

You appear to have little common sense, or at least not a particularly good ability to read other's posts. Thankfully, Ayo's reply to me was far more intelligent than yours, so I'm content to have a dialogue with him, rather than someone like you who wishes to impose his own prejudices while interpreting the posts of others. I find it astonishing that you could make such comments in response to the comments going back and forth between Ayo and myself. In this regard, it would seem that I have given you too much credit in this department up to this point.

[The Limey on 29.05.05 at 21:48]

Onion

How you could read Loki's comments and infer that he was not sympathetic to Ayo's situation is beyond me. I think you need to go back and read them again, particularly where he says "Unless [Square One management] can give a satisfacory explanation of why you were denied admittence, I will certainly not patronize the night club or the associated restaurant".

You're right - Loki was not there, and that's why he was seeking clarification from Ayo. Why can't you respect that? Ayo himself has said that he feels bad about the effect this story has had on Kim and Jon.

[Onion on 29.05.05 at 22:27]

Loki, having read your second message I am glad you are more open to entertaining the credibility of Ayo's story.

[ayo johnson on 29.05.05 at 22:30]

Loki, they are both beautiful people, really, in my experience. The way they are handling this - and their anger - says a lot, though. I've apologised to Kim by email, called her and said we should talk. No response yet. I'm trying to do this nicely even though there are some dodgy moves afoot. But sooner or later the gloves are coming off and all will be revealed - especially after tomorrow's newspaper story - if she doesn't accept my gesture.
Because let's not forget - I am the victim here. If not of racism, of bullshitism, and stupidity. The one thing I know the club is guilty off is stupidity. What club management cannot clearly explain its policies, when asked?
Onion, apathy is an epidemic. I know from being in the human rights movement that it's difficult to get people to take action on anything. So, believe it or not I was not aiming to embarrass or ridicule Jon and Kim with my comments. The reason I gave their names was because I wanted the paper to contact them and get their perspective. I also wanted to provoke a discussion about the white response thing. So three names were given (including Nicki Reiss). The gazette couldn't, wouldn't or just didn't persuade any of them to come on board. So it ended up being a cut and paste job based on an email I sent them. I wasn't even interviewed for the story. Now someone's going to say I'm blaming the media for my troubles. No. I've said already I handled it poorly on the personal front. I made a mistake. The question is what impact will certain people's anger and need to protect their reputations have on the truth?
Finally, the reason why no one said the room was booked for a party is that it wasn't - a table in the room was booked, and there were others who had nothing to do with the party in the room.
You've got to wonder why Jon and Alex are actually explaining this (in tomorrow's gazette) when that is the club's job? Is it to sound out my response for the club? Anyone think black people are too fond of conspiracy theories? Watch this space. Or connect the dots yourself and see a pathetic conspiracy unravel.
The only thing I have (and value most) is my credibility and a reputation for some integrity. I do also have a very nice Government job which I'm probably risking by being so prominently involved in what has become an unseemly row. But frankly I'd rather lose that than my credibility because I can always get another job (I hope) or go home. I think at least one of the others have the priorities reversed - instead of "how can I best serve the truth here?" their preoccupation is "how will it affect me socially and materially?" Sad and quite Bermudian.
My advise to all black people, Onion. Don't ever accuse anyone publicly of racism - it's just not worth the aggravation and, yes, the humiliation that people will heap on you if they feel threatened by your accusations. Don't even allow a situation where they even think you are accusing them of racism. I've learned my lesson already.
Okay, I'm not going to say anymore. I mean it this time.

[Onion on 29.05.05 at 22:43]

Limey,

Loki's first message did seem to place an emphasis on attaching more value to protecting the reputation and character of Ayo's white friends who he named in the article.

Loki, I apologize for not appreciating your sympathy for Ayo's situation. My response came before seeing your second message. I will not stand in the way of your dialogue with Ayo.

[loki on 29.05.05 at 23:01]

"Loki, I apologize for not appreciating your sympathy for Ayo's situation. My response came before seeing your second message. I will not stand in the way of your dialogue with Ayo."

No problem. In hindsight, it does seem that you must not have seen my second response before posting yours. In my first post, I sought to ask questions and receive clarification because what he was saying seemed to show such blatant discrimination that I wondered whether there was something that we were inadvertently missing. I was grateful for Ayo's response, which confirmed the substance of the RG's article and, as I said, I want to hear management's response before I patronize the establishment or the associated restaurant (which is, actually, my most frequently patronized restaurant and the place of choice for entertaining clients). They had better have a damn good explanation because, if not, I'm taking my dollars, and those of my company elsewhere, and I'll be warning-off my colleagues, as well. Ayo has certainly established a prima facie case, so the explanation better be good.....

[The Limey on 29.05.05 at 23:15]

Onion - My apologies. I assumed you had read both messages.

[Onion on 29.05.05 at 23:21]

Ayo,

I empathise with you but at some point you have to put your foot down and say enough is enough. How do you hold someone accountable if you just remain silent all the time? I don't care if you are talking about elitism, sexism, racism, or anti-semitism. I know it is difficult especially since there are persons out there who opportunistically will cry racism or victimization at the drop of a hat.

If a black person complains about racism every white person on the planet should not take it personally, like he is accusing you personally. That is usually the problem, people get too defensive. Also, just because that person has a complaint, doesn't mean he hates all white people. This is another obstacle that gets in the way of dialogue. Just because a woman complains about sexual harrassment doesn't mean she hates all men and does not warrant all men getting defensive when she complains.

On this website I have voiced a lot of my feeling about social issues in Bermuda. Some may think I am obsessed with racial issues. The truth is I, like Guilden and Jake, am only responding to topics that have come up for discussion. I could talk to you for hours about prejudices within the black community:- dark skinned vs light-skinned (not so common as in old days), local vs West Indian (still an issue), rich vs poor (getting worse nowadays), Berkely(the old one) vs Robert Crawford . Ayo, coming from Africa ironically may very well have suffered some of the worst prejudice from black Bermudians. I would not be surprised as the legacy of colonialism still manifests itself with a self-hate amongst some. We can talk about prejudices within the white community:- Front street vs the rest, local vs expat, anglo vs Portuguese, Saltus/BHS vs Northlands/Whitney.

The truth is discrimination of any form is wrong and should not be tolerated. I have had white friends who have been racially insulted by blacks and I have stood up for them. I would expect the same from them. If not, then I couldn't really call them friends.

[fly on the wall on 30.05.05 at 09:06]

This is typical of Bermuda......a person is told no by the opposite race and instantly it is racism...Ayo is know through out the bar scene and is one with a definate chip on his shoulder for all he sees is black and white...should probably check the glasses he wears...
It is also a shame that the royal gazette again prints a story with little folow up or desire to get both sides, their investigative reporting consists of one phone call to someone whom wasn't even there. There was a private party, plane and simple, as for waitresses not serving persons of colour it is utter garbage...square one has the fastest and most professional service in any club in Bermuda, to all persons, especially to such a busy bar.....try getting a drink at any other bar in Bermuda on a Friday night....good luck

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 30.05.05 at 09:22]

Fly on the Wall,

Please explain what you mean when you say Ayo has a chip on his shoulder. This phrase is being thrown around quite a bit on this site but what is does the phrase mean? What is this chip?

[wee man on 30.05.05 at 10:55]

While I fully appreciate, every comment that I have read on this topic I honestly believe the arguement is a moot point, the simple fact of the matter is that the management can refuse the right of entry and/or service to anyone they like without any kind of explanation. Now is this racist? In my view absolutley not. If the gentleman in ? was refused entry due to his dress then so be it. If an establisment choses to try and raise it's standing by baring certain types of clothing and becoming more "upmarket" then fine. What I will say is that the problem with this issue from my viewpoint is the monosyllabic doorman who either was unwilling or most probably unable to orrate his opinion and reasons for denying access, that is an issue that needs to be tackled by the management of square 1 as it shines a very poor light on their establishment. End of story, race is not a concern here, unprofessionalism is.

[ace on 30.05.05 at 11:35]

Hey Wee Man...how about a "no vertically challenged people" policy? Is that cool?

Afterall, according to the song lyrics:

Short People got no reason to live

They got...little hands...little eyes...
They walk around telling great big lies

Don't want no short people 'round here!

[SarahT on 30.05.05 at 12:04]

"So, believe it or not I was not aiming to embarrass or ridicule Jon and Kim with my comments. The reason I gave their names was because I wanted the paper to contact them and get their perspective. I also wanted to provoke a discussion about the white response thing. So three names were given (including Nicki Reiss). The gazette couldn't, wouldn't or just didn't persuade any of them to come on board. So it ended up being a cut and paste job based on an email I sent them. I wasn't even interviewed for the story. Now someone's going to say I'm blaming the media for my troubles. No. I've said already I handled it poorly on the personal front."

Ay, you and I have had MANY a conversation on the state of the Royal Gazette right now and I think it's pretty unfair of you to say things like the paper "wouldn't" do a more thorough job of the story. You know exactly why a more thorough job wasn't done, for the exact same reasons that I explained to you myself plenty of times when trying to work on stories with you in my last days there. The Gazette is extremely short-handed right now. The journalists are over-worked, they are trying to put out about eight stories a day when they should only be concentrating on three, and there simply is no time.

I'm not at all excusing the fact that the story was run the way it was, I'm just saying that most likely (without having spoken to anyone there about it) that was the reason it ran the way it did. They know you, they trust you, they know you have a reputation for integrity and you WERE a journalist yourself so you should be able to have a certain level of objectivity. With all those factors involved and the time constraint they appear to have taken a chance that they would not have taken with a stranger.

Again, I say all that without having spoken to any of the editorial team at the Gazette about this story, I'm basing that solely of my knowledge of the state of the newsroom just a week ago. And, again, I'm not agreeing with it. I'm just surprised to find you complaining on a public forum about it and saying things like perhaps they "wouldn't" do a more thorough job when you know perfectly well what the problem is.

That bit aside, whatever was really going on at Square One that night, Ay I admire your willingness to stand up for your beliefs even though you had a good idea of what would follow. It's something I always respected about you, your integrity, and something I always wanted to emulate as a journalist myself, so good for you. Just next time, as you've already said, perhaps you should doublecheck with your witnesses before you go to the paper (much as the paper should've done before going ahead with the story)!

[I'M JUST SAYIN' ...THATS ALL on 30.05.05 at 12:28]

"what does Jon's multimedia company have to do with the price of tea in chile? Ayo is a journalist and is employed with government." - THIS SAYS IT ALL (ALMOST)

Having worked in several nightclubs around the island for almost twenty years, I think that one thing has been overlooked by almost everyone who has wriiten regarding this issue.

Part of the "doormans" job (with the exception of the private party) is to ensure that the club has the "right people" in it. By this I mean people who give the image that they are having a great time and that this is the place to be seen, let's face it who wants to go to a club full of quiet types.

Now I give you three examples;
1. Jon Legere - Owner of a multi media company, part time DJ (and a good one), and promoter.
2. Kim Weddon - Seen nightly by most of the island on local Television, and generally pretty good looking (let's face it she's a cutie).
3. Ayo Johnson - Journalist (a great one) with the local paper and now government worker.

I have seen all three of these people out in public on several occasions while #1 & #2 are people who appear to always be having a great time, smiling, and interacting with friends and others. #3 is quiet, generally keeps to himself and his small circle of friends.

If you were the bar owner/manager who would you want in your bar/clun REGARDLESS of race, religion, or creed or any other basis that humans use to separate one from another ????? Botton line Ayo isn't as well known as the other two ...this is called sour grapes not racism.

[Canuck on 30.05.05 at 12:37]

....he wasn’t allowed inside because of the color of his skin.

Conference attendee told, 'No whites allowed'
National Association of Black Social Workers could lose tax-exempt status

Parnell is Caucasian, and he said he never made it in the conference.

“I approached the registration table and was greeted by a very friendly fellow who looked me in the eye and said, ‘Are you black?’” said Parnell. “I told him that I'm not and he told me that the conference was only for people who were black and so I wasn't able to register to attend the conference.”

.....

http://www.kget.com/news/local/story.aspx?content_id=89FECCFB-0323-4F0A-A7F2-CC44CE18A780

[ace on 30.05.05 at 12:50]

I'm astounded.

I suppose I wouldn't be welcome in these "clubs" because I'm not talkative enough or smile enough.

No problem...I'll keep my hard earned money.

Geesh...thank GOD I'm out of the bar-scene now.

[Terry on 30.05.05 at 13:04]

Mr/Mrs/miss/? Canuck, What the hell are you infering? This Bermuda. Somethings are right, some wrong. Next time someone asks me if I am Black or white to gain entry into a Licensed Premises, I will slap him with a dime, and do the time. The best times in my life in Bermuda have been in BLACK establishments. RAA Club, Somerset Cricket Club, the ole Pub on the Square, Hamilton Parish Working Mens Club (when they worked) and the rest. And they were only Clubs. Ya gotta get to know your comp

any before you run your mouth. I had MORE black friends than WHITE. This was only due to the fact that we socialised. I felt more comfortable with them than I did with Dan Rather or Woolfy Blitzgrieg.
It's all about balance. I lost mine acouple of times. Mabe you should take some Focus Factor, it's FREE. I take it all the time, it does not help me, I'm just a lost cause,but it's FREE.

See what I mean, I pressed the wrong button.

And finally, when some one asks me if I am Black or White I will walk away, go get my Birth Certifate and shove it in their face and let them see, I'm just a plain old working GEE.

[dude on 30.05.05 at 13:26]

Ayo,

are you really this deperate for attention? did mommy not hug you enough when you were growing up?

are you going to get the newspaper (if you can even call it that) to write stories for you every time you feel slighted or neglected? i think everyone of us has been turned away from the door of a niteclub regardless of sex, colour etc. grow up!!

and then to get angry and surly with the those 2 people who didnt back your claims up to the newspaper? maybe they didnt want to get involved with your pettyness. they probably realized right away that you didnt get in cause you were dressed like a slob not cause you are black.

so here it is. youve got two articles in the paper the mentioned your name, as well people talking about you on this website. you must be soooo happy. you can cut out the articles, show mommy and maybe get that hug you never got.

[Bill Cook on 30.05.05 at 14:49]

CHIP ON THE SHOULDER

One theory is that a person would put a chip on his shoulder and invite the other to knock it off wherupon the knockee as it were would proceed to bear the living crap out of the knocker.

The other is when one has an elevated opinion of his or her abilities or talents not justified by a matching performance causing a rush to find any excuse for failing to achieve other than ones own inadequacy.

Perhaps others can ad to this?

[Terry on 30.05.05 at 15:05]

With respect for all the fellow Posters, I am taken aback. This previous Post by Cookie, is by far one of the Literary pieces of Genius I have been able to digest. It encompasses all verbal statements into a nut shell. Oh to have the gift. Me, I just say what I got to say in laimens/laymens (ok.I'm laying down) terms.

It's not that I like you 'Cookie', but I sure as hell like your recipes. Well put. And for all the other Posters, if the shoe fits, wear it, and enjoy the walk. At least we can walk Free in Bermuda.

Ya just have to watch out for the pebbles.

YEE HA.

[Bill Cook on 30.05.05 at 17:06]

Onion,

Sorry to be late on this one.

You claim that most white Bermudians went crazy when Nelson Bascombes son was given probation for importing drugs.

It would be I think difficult to quantify or qualify that without a head count short of being clairvoyant.

As chairman of the first organised anti drug organisation in Bermuda "THE GROUP" it was my experience that the black community were just as upset at the destruction caused by the importation of drugs as were whites and many that I spoke to expressed those feelings on that case to me

Correct me but did not the Bromby brothers reject the findings and verdict of their case and are in fact now appealing it?

[Carlos on 30.05.05 at 17:34]

I am just wandering if anyone here has been in the same situation because no matter what everyone says, there is a racial problem when it comes to nightclubs. The club discrinate on race and gender. I have been to some nightclubs with some of my white friends and my white friends get treated totally different then I do, whether it is involves enterring a club or getting a drink from the bartenders, but I do not speak out on it because I know that I can get harassed by the bouncers and it will ruin my night. Now I am not going to say it is entirely the club owner's fault because it is not. I am a black bermudian and if I owned a night club I would be the same way because most fights taken place (to where as it escalates out of proportion for the bouncers to handle) are created by young black bermudians. But at the same time I would rather a nightclub say that they do not accept black men under the age of 25 rather then being hassled and ruining my chance to have a good night out. But on that incident with Ayo, you definately need to find better friends whether they are black or white cause that is a display of poor friendship. No way would any of my friends do that. That might say let's go and i'll tell them to go along cause they can at least have a good time, but his friends didn't do that so some good advice is to choose your friends wisely.

[Onion on 30.05.05 at 17:55]

Bill writes:

"Correct me but did not the Bromby brothers reject the findings and verdict of their case and are in fact now appealing it?"

Yes. But that is not the point. The point is that they were found guilty and the facts of the case in many people's view warranted a harsher sentence.

[Bill Cook on 30.05.05 at 17:57]

Carlos,
I guess we come from different age groups and from a different era.

Let me say the black Bermudians I travelled and socialised with were of course older and they dressed very sharp.
Not only that but they enjoyed having a good time and were always appreciated as they were the BEST tippers etc.

I guess things are different with the young people nowadays and I sure would not want to be in any business selling liquor late at night as after 12 pm its crazy.

[The Limey on 30.05.05 at 18:02]

dude

How do you know it wasn't racial discrimination?

Let me be clear: I'm not saying that it was. But it's not exactly obvious what the real reason was, is it? It's been suggested it was Ayo's dress. It's been suggested it was because the room was reserved for a private party - yet Alex Smith's letter in today's RG only says he reserved a *table* in there. It's been suggested it was because Ayo doesn't look like fun. Square One are still refusing to comment. This proliferation of reasons reminds me of George Bush's multiple justifications for invading Iraq.

You also have to ask why Kim Wheddon, Nicolette Reiss and Jon Legere, now that they have been named, haven't spoken out. I hope it's not because they do think this was racial discrimination and they're just afraid to speak out about it. I think it's more likely because they're not sure what the real reason was either.

Just because some blacks have a chip on their shoulder doesn't mean all do. Just because some blacks cry racial discrimination when there is a more innocuous reason doesn't mean that racial discrimination doesn't exist.

What is a black person who thinks that they might have been the subject of racial discrimination supposed to do? One option is to go to the HRC. The other is to go to the media. If the RG thought Ayo's story was worthless or inaccurate, they wouldn't have printed it, regardless of the fact that he used to work there.

Perhaps Ayo's suspicions were unfounded. Perhaps he just had a Randy Horton moment. From what he has said I get the impression that he raised the issue in good faith. He didn't get belligerent. He was very careful *not* to accuse the club of racism. But he was sufficiently dissatisfied with the answers he received from them that he wanted to get a proper explanation.

I don't believe any of us know what Square One's real reason was for not letting Ayo in. The only people who do are Square One themselves. And they're not talking. Given that, I understand why Ayo wanted to pursue this.

[jake on 30.05.05 at 18:02]

To be angry with a club is one thing, Ayo. To put your dispute with your friends in the newspaper was wrong.

Now your friends are on the defensive as much as the club. We don't know them, but now they are the subject of speculation on Limey in Bermuda as well.

Imagine not being a newspaper personality in a small community, going out for a drink, misunderstaning what was going on (which would be fair after a few drinks) and then being accused of supporting racism, because of your special access to the media. I don't think that smacks of integrity - I think it smacks of a person who was hurt and wishes to lash out at those who hurt him and those who let him down.

I suggest that next time you draft the email and save it for 24 hours before sending. Then consider the impact your "lesson" to your friends might have on them, and whether it would be fair to give them a chance to choose for themselves if they want to participate. I don't think it is your right to choose for them.

I would be careful to spend time with you because you put your own issues (which may or may not be justifiable) above that of your friends' privacy.

At the end of the day Ayo, it is a crappy bar VIP section in a club renovated at significant cost that still looks like crap. And you are an educated man who demeans himself when he attacks clubs over their VIP policies.

There are better issues to fight over.

[The Limey on 30.05.05 at 18:11]

jake,

I agree that Ayo should not have named his friends in an email to the RG without first getting their consent.

Nonetheless, that misjudgement surely has no bearing on his refusal to be admitted to the VIP room. Perhaps he should have gone to the HRC rather than the media with his complaint. But if he genuinely thought he may have been unfairly discriminated against, surely he shouldn't just have let it slide?

[jake on 30.05.05 at 21:16]

Phil,

If Ayo feels discriminated against then he is entitled to use the means available to protest it.

The question I have is: should he?

First of all this is a club. Club's choose who they determine to be VIP everywhere in the world. In some countries I make the grade, and in others I don't.

I don't enjoy not being picked, but sometimes you have to be honest and say - hey - in this place I am not an important customer. There is no right to enter a club's VIP. They reserve it for their most special guests.

There are bigger issues to fight for. He would do more for his reputation if he spent his time on those things.

I doubt his Govt. job will be in any jeopardy however.

[dude on 30.05.05 at 21:54]

Limey,

By saying, "This proliferation of reasons reminds me of George Bush's multiple justifications for invading Iraq" and thus comparing poor Ayo not being allowed into a VIP room, to a war in which thousands have been killed is nothing short of ridiculus. Inflaming a debate by this way does nobody any good.

Moreover you ask, "What is a black person who thinks that they might have been the subject of racial discrimination supposed to do?"

You fail to mention another option in the response to your own question. The option is vote with your pocket book. If Ayo and others think S1 is in the habit of discriminating, dont go there!!! A business in bermuda that truly practiced racism would not stay in business long. Not only would it loose out on a large market segment, moreover people would refrain from visiting such an establishment for risk of being labeled a racist themselves. When I go to S1 and see a widly diverse clientle and staff(racially and people with different sexual orientations) I can only come to the conclusion that people have voted with their pocketbook and they dont agree with Ayo's claims.

[Onion on 30.05.05 at 22:05]

Jake,

If I owned a club in Bermuda and I wanted to maximize my profits I would seek to attract white male exempt company executives, and their female guests. They make the most money - period! But what is profitable is not necessarily legal or ethical, especially if a potential patron can catch them out for deliberately discriminating against a certain race or gender. If I was to own a club and only allowed white executives to enter the VIP section then there is a problem and I should be called out for it. If I only allowed important looking people or well-known celebrities into my club then I could probably get away with it. But based on race? No.

In Ayo's case, in the absence of any statement to the contrary from the club, it is left open for one to speculate that the decision was based not simply on wealth or importance, but on race. Perception is reality to the uninformed.

A simple statement from the club would probably put this all to bed. I am not sure if the club has grasped the whole concept of building good PR.

[loki on 30.05.05 at 23:09]

Bottom line at this stage: the explanation that has been given/pieced together seems plausible - he didn't get into the VIP section because he hadn't been invited to the private party and otherwise probably wasn't deemed 'trendy' enough to get admittence in his own right. But that explanation HAS NOT been given by management. Indeed, the management has been entirely silent on the matter. Surely, it would be the easiest thing in the world for them to issue a press release stating precisely why Ayo was refused admission? Everything we've heard so far has come from third parties, not management, and that's just not good enough in my book. Hello? Earth calling Square One?

[Jon Legere on 30.05.05 at 23:30]

Please allow me to clarify a few things that have been left out of this whole debacle - deliberate or not.

I arrived at S1 to meet an old friend who was temporarily visiting the island that weekend. The plan was that there would be a table reserved for us in the VIP lounge of S1.

When i arrived i saw Ayo Johnson at the entrance of the VIP section. I walked over to Ayo and asked how he was doing. He said that he was upset about not being allowed into the VIP section. I asked the bouncer if Ayo could come in. The bouncer said no. That was the last i saw of Ayo Johnson that evening.

a few things to note.

1. i was not with Ayo's party previous to this incident, nor did i have any plans to hang out with Ayo that night.

2. i was unware at the time to any conversation between Ayo and the bouncer/establishment.

3. my pull at the door didn't stop with Ayo. i had no luck getting my brother, his girlfriend, or my business partner in to the VIP section that night - however i don't think they were offended, we spent the majority of the night at the outside bar anyway.

Ayo, it disturbs you that i am concerned about my reputation. How is this possible when you dedicate several blogs to upholding your character?

I spoke to you for an hour last friday and i was far from angry. if anything i am only defending my character now, which you have directly challenged.

goodnight all.

[Bill Cook on 30.05.05 at 23:46]

In my limited experience the more difficult it is to get into a club the more people will prize being chosen to be admitted.

Some yrs ago Studio 52 had long lines of people queue outside doing all manner of things in order to be chosen for admission.

There is something perverse in human nature that sees people try harder to get that which is seen to be unobtainable, such as admission to a club where the doorman makes the decision if you qualify or not.

As I recall that club was noted for the volume of celebs that frequented it and powdered their noses from the inside!

If history repeats itself my bet is that the club here will see such a clamour to gain admission they will be accused of staging the whole thing for publicity.

Is Madonna a shareholder ?

If my guess is correct the most disapointed people will be the shitstirrers on the sidelines who like that old scottish proverb "Nurse their wrath to keep it warm "

This promises to be interesting!!

[Bill Cook on 31.05.05 at 00:03]

Hey Nicky and Kim forget those other losers I dig hot chicks( although I am a bit old and forget why) but if any SOB refuses me admission to his club I have enough money to buy the building and buy out his lease.

I learned a thing or two from my old Pal Erroll Flynn back in Belfast where he lived.

If Paris Hilton was happy to sit beside me on my last flight why not U2?

[Fire on 31.05.05 at 00:29]

Square 1 sucks. I doubt this episode will make people want to go there.

[Bill Cook on 31.05.05 at 06:18]

Sorry it was Studio 54

52 was the IQ level of those waiting in line to get in.

Can one buy shares in this joint or is it privately owned ?

[bermudasea on 31.05.05 at 08:07]

Ayo,
Congratulations on speaking up. Reality is, your circumstances did amount to discrimination. Private businesses do not have the right, in a society that doesn't discriminate to simply decide who can come in and who doesn't. If the club posted a certain dress code, a certain age, etc., that would be reasonable...or if it had a "membership" fee, allowing people across the board to pay that fee and then become members--then they would have a basis to decide who came or who went--or, of course, if the whole room included the party to which a person was not invited. I hope you don't ever apologize for speaking up. The problem is with those who do not. And the folks who chat here are up with what's going on in the community--and that's where change begins....

I might add that I'm shocked you are now with the government. You are an excellent journalist. Personally, I found making a similar change very difficult. Good on you for speaking up with a government post!

[Civvie on 31.05.05 at 08:42]

What's wrong with working for government?

[Bill Cook on 31.05.05 at 08:44]

BDASEA,
Discrimination comes in many forms,
being first in line at the gas station but served last, getting a parking ticket while a similar offender gets off, waiting in line at TCB and seeing late arrivals leave before you etc etc

There is no doubt that preferential treatment which I guess is discrimination exists.

It may be tough to prove beyond a reasonable doubt just what form of discrimination was exercised.

Being a civil servant for 6 yrs I saw that it was hard to get fired, not only that but some areas regulate themselves even in cases of reported rape, so dont understand why it takes more courage to speak up as a civil servant, if that was what you suggested.

[J Galt on 31.05.05 at 09:11]

"Private businesses do not have the right, in a society that doesn't discriminate to simply decide who can come in and who doesn't."

Why not?

I have to agree with dudes post let the owner decide who he will or will not serve. Then the market (each individual) can choose to support or not support the business

[Terry on 31.05.05 at 09:30]

Before I forget, which is often, I suggest that some of the Posters read the Liquor Licence Act. There are many avenues, which a Licence Holder can travel while trying who can enter his/her premises. Thank God Race is not one of them.
This whole thing boils down to something that has been blown slightly out of proportion. Ones Mans complaint about an incident can be turned into a firey racil bebate.

When it does come out in the wash, how many will retract their statements/posts.

Me, I would ajudicate a hearing and hear what the owners and employees working at the time have to say and hear Mr. Johnson's side. I think this public lynching of both sides is for the birds. It's a good topic but who the hell made us the Jury, when we don't have any and all the facts.

Mr. Limey, get us talking about driving behind Buses and all that diesel fuel.

Again, no more comments from me on this Post. If there was any form of racial discrimination it will come out. If it was an incident, justified by Law and the Owners rights so be it.

Rodney.

[Tiger Bay on 31.05.05 at 09:35]

In the old days of Disco 40, all journalists got in free ... it assured good publicity. This whole case sounds like several journalists getting their own back at Square One. Weak journalism on the part of the RG. I am amazed that this discussion is attracting so much attention.

[nicolette on 31.05.05 at 11:28]

Someone did tell me productivity was down in Beruda'sw workforce recently, and this evidences why. I guess I need to clarify one matter, publicly, at least. A message was left on May 23 at my parents' house for me to call Tricia Walters at RG. Since I don't live with my parents I did not receive said message or return the call until May 25 - and I had no idea what it was about. This was at least 4-5 hours before the end of the work day before the original article. When I spoke to her, she told me what she wanted to ask me no longer mattered. Therefore I was surprised to be told about Thgursday's article and my (accurate) quote from Ayo mentioned. My point being - I have no problem discussing facts I have witnessed - I was simply never asked by trhe Gazette before they printed the story, nor was told, as a courtesy, about the inclusion of my statement. Since, however, Ayo reported exactly what I said to him without embellishment or innuendo, I have absolutely no problem with his use of my name (and he knows). I am absolutely flummoxed that individuals with far more public exposure than I refuse to give accounts of occurrences when asked by the daily paper. I repeat, was never asked by the RG and still have not been. Perhaps they figure I will discuss it in an MON article....who knows what their reasoning could be. Nevertheless, the sheer comments on this blog provide enough fodder for mention - sadly enough.

[Civvie on 31.05.05 at 11:33]

I am absolutely flummoxed as well. I hate being flummoxed. I think I am going to flummox somebody today. Time to spread arund the flummox.

[jake on 31.05.05 at 11:43]

So now it seems that J. Legere was not even with Ayo and was pulled into this.

Come on guys. This is totally unfair to him.

I have to agree with loki on this one, Onion. Not making the trendy list does not mean he was subject of racism.

The more I think of this, the more silly it seems.

[anarchy on 31.05.05 at 12:18]

black this ....white that....bottom line is that opinions are like ears, everyone has two. My opinion of this situation is simple. Just because someone has the $$$$$ to run a nightclub doesn't mean they have the same social agenda as Alex. Lets cut through the crap...Ayo's hair style has never been mainstream, unless you are Ziggy, Lenny, or Rudd. I used to work at the Disco 40 back in the 80's and believe me, the 'in' crowd from that era are either broke, on drugs, or look like my grandparents!!!

[Terry on 31.05.05 at 12:31]

I made a few comments about Flummox. I tried to make a little joke about what it was. There was no offence in it at all. I thought it was relevent to the post. I was trying to bring a little humour into this debate. Trying to get people to litten up a little. I know we have to deal with the facts but there ain't too many of them out there. Everything I have read is second hand, except for Mr. Johnson's version and a few of his so called friends, or associates.

Yes my joke was not subject of the Post but it was related. So much for Free Speach. Well I guess I am a target now. Square 1 or whatever they call themselves better get back to Square One.

I don't have to vilifie anything. I already qualify.

The Author of this site states free speach as long as it is relevent to the Post. I made comments about what Bermudasea said. He ommited them. I told him they were not personal. So much for free speach again. There are rules for everything, and I try to abide by them.

Mr.Square One.Come out and say something. Your silence is reverberating throughout the community.
Lets have a level playing field here.

[The Limey on 31.05.05 at 12:49]

Nicolette

You told Ayo that you had the same experience at Square One when you were there with a black friend.

What happened to you?

[Tiger Bay on 31.05.05 at 12:56]

YAWN. 15 minutes of fame are over. Let's move on!

[Andrew on 31.05.05 at 13:32]

I do agree, this is getting a bit tiresome.

Seems to me this is just a spat between friends that is being played out in the media.

There are important things that should be discussed. This is not one of them.

[H Reardon on 31.05.05 at 15:42]

Galt,

you must be getting through to a few on this blog--I am surprised at how many people said it was ok to serve who you want to serve (the property owner may use his property in whatever manner he deems appropriate). Maybe a few need to go rethink what they wrote on the No Smoking thread.

[terry on 31.05.05 at 16:28]

Mr. Reardon, Galt did not get through to me. It's simple, the Law is the Law. Until you change it, I have to abide by it. Do you know what went down that night? If you do, please fill me in and the rest that have jumped with the Lemmings.

[Apollo Creed on 31.05.05 at 16:52]

Actually Rearden and Galt should reread Atlas Shrugged. They are a disgrace Ayn Rand.

[H Reardon on 01.06.05 at 09:28]

Apollo,

Please enlighten me.

[guestworker on 02.06.05 at 14:42]

Three cheers for S1. I am a single white male and I pulled a black girl there recently, so there is definitely no race issues going on.
I am getting tired of the black people here complaining every little time they don't get their way, which is not often. This guy Ayo is a classic example. Being a white expat here is difficult at times; we get treated like 2nd class citizens on a daily basis by most local blacks. If thats the worst thing that happens to you in a day (not getting into VIP) then just get on with it. Black people push in front of me in line-ups at the Marketplace all the time, that is much worse. Sometimes the bouncers dont let me into VIP; he just says "not tonight", and I say "ok thats cool". People like Ayo need to change their attitudes... we all know from personal experience that the "friendly bermudians" myth that the tourists get fed is a fallacy. which incidentally is why your tourism industry is going down the toilet. Ayo, go get full hot somewhere else (Splash maybe, which regularly doesnt let white boys in) and quit your complaining boy. You got nothing to talk about, you're black, this is YOUR island. the rest of us are temporary workers to be spat at by the likes of you. I hope S1 doesnt even let you in the front door now, let alone the VIP room.

[Milton Raposo on 07.06.05 at 09:06]

I want to direct my attention to the blogger Guestworker who has “contributed” to the online debate. You, sir, have no idea about race relations whatsoever. So you picked up a black woman at this club the other night. Great. Maybe we should nominate you for the Jesse Jackson Rainbow award. Someone please alert the Martin Luther King Jr Foundation. If you had any understanding of racism first of all, you should have not mentioned that you picked up a black woman. That really makes no difference in the grand scheme of anything and it doesn’t make you a man of the people either. I sincerely hope that this woman knows you have said this. Lastly I’d like to say that maybe you don’t have the courage to speak up when someone jumps in front of you at the lines at the Marketplace just like you have no courage to state your real name and instead choose to hide behind a false name on a website.
Courage is a something you must have to ask the important questions. Sometimes it might cost you but at least it’s out there and all that you have is your dignity and pride in knowing that you did ask the important questions. I believe that is exactly what Ayo Johnson has done.

[JJ on 07.06.05 at 10:27]

Ayo is also a guestworker I believe.

Ayo is from Sierra Leone I think,

Milton yes you may have your dignaty and pride but would you still have your job?

One thing to be brave when you are Bermudian like you and me quite another if you are on