Honest talk

If I had called Lt. Col. David Burch a stupid nigger in one of the columns I used to write for the Royal Gazette, I think that pretty much everyone in Bermuda would have excoriated me for my comment.

However, it seems that Col. Burch himself would not. He would have shrugged off my remark as the “normal confidence” of a white man, and would not have been insulted by it since he believes that “we need to be not offended because somebody used a term that you don’t like”. Indeed, according to his remarks in the Senate yesterday, my comment wouldn’t even lead him to call me a racist.

Yeah, right.

Comments

[loki on 15.12.05 at 11:53]

"PLP MINISTER IN HYPOCRISY AND ARROGANCE SHOCKA..."

[Uncle Elvis on 15.12.05 at 12:14]

Everybody sing "The Double Standard Blues".

(Actually, Rev. Goat... you gotta come out of retirement for one last song and write that with me!)

[loki on 15.12.05 at 12:18]

All together now!

"Before you accuse me, take a look at yourself
Before you accuse me, take a look at yourself
I can call a man a nigger, if yo' skin is lighter, you gotta call him something else...."

[loki on 15.12.05 at 12:23]

I still just cannot get over how Burch still thinks that his comments were appropriate. And to compound matters, during his comments on the news last night, he AGAIN repeatedly used the word 'nigger' in reference to blacks in the UBP and blacks in this country that weren't "on message". Unbelievable. So, now he's made these despicable comments whilst a sitting Cabinet Minister (the previous excuse employed by government to excuse government's lack of comment on the matter previous was that he had made the slurs whilst he was still a private citizen). Can we expect government to denounce him this time? Hell no, the PLP policy of 'divide a conquer' will, no doubt, continue unabated.

[SmokingGun on 15.12.05 at 12:25]

Why are our leaders using the phrase "testicular fortitude" when discussing the failures of others within the government. Seeing as it is highly unlikely that the female version of a member of parliament would be able to say she had "testicular fortitude" I feel it is just wrong and extremly sexist. I offer this with the normal confidence of a man.

[loki on 15.12.05 at 12:28]

"Why are our leaders using the phrase "testicular fortitude" when discussing the failures of others within the government."

Actually, can we pass a law which prohibits politicians from using the phrase 'testicular fortitude' - it's becoming the most hackneyed, overused, tacky, juvenile, six-form common room phrase ever employed in Bermuda politics.

[hotspur on 15.12.05 at 12:31]

The Premier responds to all who questions his Governments performance by accusing them of being divisive and trying to pull the country apart. Yet here is another perfect example of representatives of said Government making just about the most divisive comments possible.

These "public servents" are racists and shouldn’t be running a country when they have opinions that would clearly bias their ability to do so fairly.

An MP anywhere else caught making such a remark would be out on his arse. Not here though. Shocking, embarrassing, demoralizing.

[Tony B on 15.12.05 at 12:31]

The unelected Colonel...is undoubtedly the biggish public relations disaster facing the PLP on a daily basis.

He should resign immdeiately. He is one nasty, dangerous racist and all Bermudians PLP UBP black and white should be calling for his dismissal.

Senator Bob Richards did not nearly go far enough in the senate yesterday. To say the Human Rights Commission has no testicular fortitude is an understatement. They are a gutless tribe of sycophants who have allowed the Premier and now Burch to show utter contempt for Human Rights and civility in this island.

The children of Bermuda will now take emulate this rotten behaviour. hey if the Premier can do it and Burch can "hang up on white people" and call Ubp black supporters "House Niggers" this is as about as low anyone in public life can go.

John Gilbert wrote a letter to the RG today saying in all his days as clerk to the legislature he had never seen such behaviour.

Burch is a rotten apple. But the problem is that this Government rots from the top down....so do not hold your breath waiting for a resignation.

I am truly disgusted with the Colonel and his rantings and ravings and racist vitriol.

[hotspur on 15.12.05 at 12:33]

SG, the phrase would therefore be "breastular fortitude", no?

[Lost in Flatts on 15.12.05 at 12:49]

Check it out, intelligence and perceptiveness in Bermudian politics DOES exist:

Sen. Gina Spence-Farmer said: “The whole idea of racism and injustice, there is a whole generation out there who do not even want to be a part of that, but they understand the past.
“My solution is that a whole generation of people are going to have to die in all honesty because there is a group that will never forgive and there is a group that will never embrace. And they are putting those same belief system in the younger kids and that’s where it is perpetuating.”

Hey Burch, if you really did do 30 years of community service for Bermuda and yet you STILL DIDN'T GET ELECTED, that makes you a pretty patheic N*&(^£ doesn't it? No one be offended, its clearly cool that we all use it now...

Disgusted.

[Full Fullish on 15.12.05 at 12:51]

Tony B - "I am truly disgusted with the Colonel and his rantings and ravings "

And this coming from Tony himself! (Grin) Just kidding Tony. I agree with you.

[Chris Broadhurst on 15.12.05 at 12:51]

Burch is nothing more than a racist pig. He's confirmed it yet again.

I also stand by my previous comment that the PLP is a racist organisation. Their inaction on this and other 'crap' is all the proof needed.

And one more time: this does not mean every person who voted PLP is racist. It just means that the party itself supports a racist point of view.

[tilti on 15.12.05 at 12:52]

“My solution is that a whole generation of people are going to have to die in all honesty because there is a group that will never forgive and there is a group that will never embrace. And they are putting those same belief system in the younger kids and that’s where it is perpetuating.”
“It’s a crying shame that even at this point in time we continue to lie to ourselves, to fool ourselves that this is going to change with words. You can change nobody else if you are hanging on to past injustices.”

Does anybody everyone else see the double irony here. He thinks that if all old black and white people die it will solve the problem, but then states that it perpetuates - which he is himself doing. He also wants a truth and reconciliation process but admits that he will not and cannot change his opinions or forgive past injustices. He is a public figure, somewhat respected (dropping daily) why doesn’t he be the bigger man and let go. He is envious of South Africa (which is far from perfect) but SA would never have worked if Mandela was a racist.

[SmokingGun on 15.12.05 at 12:55]

Burch should get the Birch.

[Denis Pitcher on 15.12.05 at 12:56]

The honorable thing for Col. Burch to do would be to offer his resignation like would occur in any other developed nation.

I could at least accept Premier Scott's remarks to Tony Brannon as an unintended mistake, however he should have recognized his mistake and apologized

Apparently your only racist if your not part of the PLP.

We the people should be demanding Col. Burch's resignation if he is not willing to in the very least apologize.

[Full Fullish on 15.12.05 at 13:01]

Nah, leave Colonel exactly where he is. He's just gonna shoot independence, and in the long run, the PLP right in the foot time and time again. Eventually they are both going to run out of toes!

Even on his talk show, he would say something and Walt Roban would go "Uh, um, I wouldn't actually say that". He'll just speaking more and more garbage until EVERYONE is really sick of hearing him.

[tong on 15.12.05 at 13:12]

The problem is that everyone is talking but there is no action taking place...we have only one alternative political party but so far I have heard nothing from them... are they doing anything in the way of trying to provide alternatives to the anger/retribution/racism.com style of government we are being peppered with, or am I just unawares of all they are doing?

[Martin on 15.12.05 at 13:22]

Hotspur...

Why not "mammary magnitude".....or even...(perhaps not)

[Tony B on 15.12.05 at 13:38]

I had coffee with a person who made a complaint to HUMAN RIGHTS about Burch's House Niggers comment...

That person was told by a female worker at Human Rights that she had better be careful as people knew where she lived....she was asked if she had a dog....insinuating that harm may come to her, her family and maybe even the dog !

Human Rights ? Sounds like Burch has infiltrated this place and has his SS and Gestapo ready to pounce....

Tell Burch I live in Southampton....have video surveillance at my house...my my dog would love to snatch his B**** ass.

[Uncle Elvis on 15.12.05 at 13:53]

I love how you type out the N-word and censor "bitch"! or was that "Black"? *grin*
Or "Burch"?
Maybe that could be the new thing.
"I'll kick your Burch ass!"

But I agree with you Tony. Someone tell Burch that I live.. uh.. in Southampton... right next to Tony... yeah.. that's it. Tell him I ain't afraid of no firebombs! Yeah... that's right...

[b,w&p?? on 15.12.05 at 14:02]

HAHAHA..resignations!!..the whole lot of them are having one big dick-sucking-power-orgy up there on the hill for that to happen...no one is going to ask for one, nor one is going to offer one and no one is going to accept one.

[OnDeWata __/)__ on 15.12.05 at 14:17]

Am I the only one frightened for my Kids? There is - without a doubt, IMHO - an entire sector of our tiny island just waiting to start "The War". I have actually heard younger folk (late-teen, 20's) refering to "The War" and how we all need to "...look out when de War starts..." Are these types waiting for Burch's command or what?

Someone PLEASE correct me before I go buy 1-way plane tickets for my whole family.

[sandgrownan on 15.12.05 at 14:36]

What a disgusting pig of a man. Unbelievable, this island is doomed.

[J Galt on 15.12.05 at 14:36]

If he calls black supporters of the UBP "house niggers" does that mean David thinks that black PLP supporters are field niggers?

[jake on 15.12.05 at 14:43]

Testicular Fortitude is a dumb term. I am ashamed for them, and of them.

Calling people nigger is wrong in any context.

My shame continues.

[Chris Broadhurst on 15.12.05 at 14:47]

"Everything that this Government does people view as a black Government carrying out black policies". A quote from Colonel Handbag in today's RG.

So he criticises people cos they bring everything down to race - yet he is one of the worsed offenders. A racist pig of the highest order.

And by the way, I live on Hinson's Island, where it is very dark (but I know my way around) and I have the mother of all baseball bats.

[Two Cents on 15.12.05 at 14:53]

I live on Hinson's Island, where it is very dark (but I know my way around) and I have the mother of all baseball bats.

Chris..you live on Hinson's Island...Hinson's Island for God's sake. Do you need a baseball bat out there ?? I wonder how bad would my crack/drug problem have to be that I would steal a boat/swim to rob a house on Hinson's Island

[b,w&p?? on 15.12.05 at 14:54]

1-way pane tickets?..Island is doomed?...nonsense. Those types of statments give the little dweeb too much credit. We are only talking about Burch here..remember the gimp who was on all fours for Jen for 5 years. Judging by what spills from his mouth it's easy to determine that there isn't much between the ears - and dimwits are easy to defeat. Full Fullish had it right, he's easy to rile and any half wit can get him to put a nail in his political coffin!!..."are these types waiting for Burches command?"...Please, we can all agree he's a dumbass that is in a position of power but the really freightening part of this whole picture is that this PLP government holds no one accountable...that cause for pause!

[sandgrownan on 15.12.05 at 14:56]

b,w&p - agreed...so we go back to yesterday's thread. How do we get the word out to the electorate not to tolerate this bunch of fuckwits for any longer than necessary?

[Chris Broadhurst on 15.12.05 at 15:00]

Two Cents,

Hey, we play a lot of baseball out there. What can I say?

:-)

[b,w&p?? on 15.12.05 at 15:09]

sandgrownan - I'm wishing I studied political science right about now. Unfortunately, and I think this has been said already, Bermudians have it way too good financially at the moment and this leads to apathy amoung the general populous. I think that until we 'lose it all' there will generally be no interest to fight for change, hold politicians accountable and National Pride...look at the poorest Brazilians for example, they are brimming with national pride anytime their football team takes the field - these people have nothing BUT National Pride...we have everything our little mouse-potato heart desires, but no sense of pride in our country because of our stinking, rotting govenment that is supposed to be leading. So to answer your question - show Bermuda what it stands to lose.

[sandgrownan on 15.12.05 at 15:16]

Sadly, I think you are right. The realisation may come too late for some. It's hard to see past the rampant consumerism and LV luggage.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 15.12.05 at 17:38]

This nonsense with Col. Burch is sickening to me and the PLP needs to hang its collective head in shame for allowing Burch to continue on the way he is. I have attempted to support and defend the PLP on many issues but we part ways on this matter. There is no way I can or will even begin to support or defend this nonsense.

I think we all agree that race is still an issue that the country needs to deal with, however, our leaders, elected or "chosen" need to focus on what is best for Bermuda, not setting, adopting and following their own agenda.

I believe that upon winning the government in 1998 the PLP had an ideal opportunity to united the country and I believe the party would have been able to do it fairly easily. It has failed miserably and it has failed for one reason, not due to its position on independence but because its position on independence and many other matters is or appears to be based on race. Using race the way it has been used is NOT a core principal of the party but the perception that it is a core principal is due to the comments and actions of a few high profile and outspoken members and representatives.

The party needs to very strongly address this and it needs to do so immediately.

I do not care what has happened in the past regarding racism and its effects. The only way to begin to put this whole matter of race and racism to rest is for the leaders of the country to set an example for the rest of the society.

Racism has over the centuries been destructive for blacks and whites and what I am having a very difficult in understanding is why would anyone want to keep it alive, whether it is white on black or black on white.

Bermuda is at a crossroad, in that there are severe social ills impacting the country, there is an increasing economic gap between the haves and the have nots and in order to address these the country most be united in its efforts. If race is still dividing us and this division is being perpetuated by our government then these more important issues can never be addressed and there are some very difficult days ahead for our country.

Bermuda is made up of a multitude of races and ethnicities and if we can, for the most part, get along with each other, why does our government, or more precisely, certain members of of our government feel that they need to divide us by race?

This is an absolutely sickening and disgusting way for our leaders to act.

[Aruba on 15.12.05 at 18:22]

I was in the Swizzle Inn a few years ago and in walked the Colonel. He cased the joint for a while and left. A couple of minutes later in came Jennifer with entourage. She must have been disappointed with the lack of Moet available.

Anyway, I agree with everyone here. In any other developed country an MP would be forced to resign over the stuff he comes out with. Then again, other countries tend to only allow people who have actually been elected to hold such positions.

[SmokingGun on 15.12.05 at 18:28]

Hey Guilden I just forwared your post to the Royal Gazette..... just kidding.

But can I?

[Tony B on 15.12.05 at 18:30]

Guilden....
You are so right.....well said

TB

[Denis Pitcher on 15.12.05 at 18:37]

Guilden,

A very good post and well said. It truly is sad that the PLP threw away a perfect opportunity to unite this country. I was hopeful things would change but they have yet to. Perhaps they will soon wake up and stop dividing our nation and instead unite it. I'm not holding my breath however.

[terrycloth on 15.12.05 at 18:38]

I am watching this mess from overseas, after having left Bermuda recently after having been born there and lived there for 36 years. I am saddened by this state of affairs as we all are. The good Colonel clearly thinks that he is still the OIC and is not accountable to anyone. He needs to be taken to task.

Has anyone thought of making a police complaint. If he makes these statements in a public forum, and someone is offended, he may be prosecuted for offensive words or even racial harassment?

[Full Fullish on 15.12.05 at 18:55]

Guilden - "I do not care what has happened in the past regarding racism and its effects. The only way to begin to put this whole matter of race and racism to rest is for the leaders of the country to set an example for the rest of the society"

Amen to that! I tried to actually tell this to Burch and he argued with me over it! Can you believe it?

The same goes for either party. I will have nothing to do with any party that uses race in order to sway votes, or even if it's high profile members blurt out racist remarks. It's deplorable and beneath Bermudian society as a whole. I would like him to say a comment like that to my face, even if I am white.

[SmokingGun on 15.12.05 at 19:39]

Guilden - in all seriousness, I think you should send your post to the papers. You know you will be published. I think coming from someone such as yourself it would actually help other's within the PLP get some TF and step up and denounce this kind of garbage being continued.

[loki on 15.12.05 at 19:51]

Guilden, Jake - thank you sincerely. It's refreshing to see PLP supporters such as yourself speak out strongly against the deplorable actions of Senator Burch. I personally feel so strongly that this government needs to be removed from office with all due haste, that I cannot be certain that I would be quite so candid in my comments were a UBP politician to make equally offensive remarks. In that regard, you are certainly better men that I.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 15.12.05 at 21:02]

Thank you all for your comments but race and racism to me is one of the most disgusting and vile things and I have absolutely zero tolerance for it whatsoever.

[Uncle Elvis on 15.12.05 at 21:53]

Guilden, get your ass back to Bermuda, soon!

I'm buying you a drink!

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 15.12.05 at 22:10]

Thanks Elvis.

SmokingGun, all I can say to you is, "Watch that space." The receiver of your email contacted me.

[Tim Taylor on 15.12.05 at 23:19]

I seem to be spending this evening flicking around threads in order to agree with Guilden.
Racism is always emotional, destructive and devisive. Which is why it makes such a wonderful political weapon. And I agree that the only valid response is Zero Tolerance for it.
Question: Why are you not back here in Bermuda standing as an M.P.?
I don't care what party you run for, your principles are what would get you elected.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 15.12.05 at 23:56]

Tim,

Thanks for the comments. I guess the only way I can describe it is that family is very, very important to me. I have a duty to secure my family's (especially my child's) financial future. There are a couple of new ventures I have just launched and I believe in a few years they could set my family very well financially.

I have to admit that I do feel a little torn because I do truly love and care for my country and it pains me to see what is going on. I have always said that I was never interested in frontline politics but that view is definitely beginning to change. Without trying to sound arrogant, I do believe there are some things I could bring to the table.

Politics is a tough game, not so much because of the tactics used by opponents who want nothing more than to take your votes but because there is a great demand on the time of a good politician. This takes away from time with the family and I spend as much time with my family as I possibly can.

I guess unlike many who enter the political game I view it as a service to country not as a way to grasp power and try to sway the will of the people. Most politicians seem to only remember that they work for the people when it is time for an election.

If I ever did decide to return home and run for office it would have to be at a time where finances are not an issue for me because I would want to dedicate my time focusing on what is best for the country. Those that enter politics without being somewhat financially independent have to balance their focus between earning a living for the survival of their families and handling the needs of the country. This is a very difficult balance.

I do not believe in making promises to win an election. Anyone can make promises. If I were ever to take the step into politics it would have to be on the understanding that I the only promise I will make is that the needs of the country and the will of the people take precedent. I also do not believe in photo opportunities because the success of the country is not about personal glorification. Again, it is service, service to country and to the people of the country.

I know this sounds like a load of "you what" but unless and until one takes the step into the game he can only say what he will do and how he will act. As an insurance broker, I guess my clients can attest to the fact that I put their needs first and make sure that when I say I will do something I do it and that its is the interest of the client that I serve.

In my capacity as President of the Bahamas Insurance Brokers Association, during an interview a couple of years ago with a newspaper I compared my duties as an insurance broker with those of a politician. They really aren't that far apart. Both a broker and a politician do nothing more than provide a service to clients.

[Uncle Elvis on 15.12.05 at 23:59]

Guilden,

Come home. Run. You just got my vote.
Unfortunately, we'd both be in for a big disappointment, in the end, with the way things are, but you would do SO much good while you were in it...

[Tim Taylor on 16.12.05 at 00:07]

My God, listen to the man. Actually, all you Goverment Lurkers monitoring this site, write down - verbatim - Mr. Gilberts words and present them to your bosses as an Action Plan.
Guilden, all props, mate!

[ben on 16.12.05 at 00:19]

Relax ya'll

The electorate is much more intelligent than you realize!!
and a balloon can only get so big, ....and then it bursts.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 16.12.05 at 00:24]

Ben,

That is so true. I think with people like Burch acting the way they are the results of the next election could be very, very interesting. It is not just non-PLP supporters that are upset with this mess.

Some people believe they are bigger than the country. Those that fall into this category tend to fall very hard when the balloon pops.

[SmokingGun on 17.12.05 at 14:50]

Guilden - sounds like you might be stumping. ;)

I look forward to seeing your post in the papers.

[RedOnion on 17.12.05 at 17:31]

Guilden, come back soon, we will make 25 or so clones of you and change politics forever here!

Oh well, we can dream.

[Raptor on 17.12.05 at 18:05]

Kudos to MP Patricia Gordon-Pamplin for her gutsy response to Burch’s H-N diatribe. The lady says it like it is without having to resort to the usual "testicular fortitude" bit. Burch “is still living in a cave, and he’s not come out into the light of sophisticated society.” She is clear and forceful: “…if the Premier chooses to elevate someone of this kind of putrid ilk to the Cabinet, then it raises questions about him.” The she goes on to call Burch’s words “inflammatory and racially divisive,” and quotes the 1981 Human Rights Act, which leaves no doubt that Burch fits the bill when it comes to “promoting ill will or hostility on the grounds of colour, race, ethnic or national origins.” I’d like to see more such no-nonsense, straight talk and outrage as Ms. Gordon-Pamplin’s from other Opposition MPs—and from more Bermudians.

And Burch stands by “the term.” Of course, he backs off and uses the word “Negroes” instead. If he really stood by “the term,” why didn’t he just repeat it? It’s clear he’s doing the “house negro vs. the field negro” kind of thing with Bermuda politics, but his argument is loaded with incredible, highly-public insult (as he obviously intends) when he says the UBP "H-Ns" don’t have “the courage to stand up for themselves and their rights.” His attitude is one of dictatorial dribble. Or, maybe he doesn’t intend to say quite so much, and he just loses control? Comforting.

Then Alvin Williams says “the black community” approaches all this (including P’s email to Tony B) with “indifference, muted, and little to no reaction.” He says simply that Burch used “the N-word to describe black UBP supporters.” I’d say he’s leaving out the context in which Burch put that word. Alvin seems to see a “weariness” about all this in the black community. And then he wanders into a discussion of letters by Dr. Hodgson and Mrs. McPhee. Finally, he concludes that Independence will somehow solve all this and create a common Bermudian identity. Is he kidding? Are these people out of their minds?

An unelected Minister spewing the worst racial invective on the public airwaves, hanging up on callers who identify themselves as white when grilled by him, calling a black member of the UBP a “black buffoon,” and not a word out of the P, who is supposed to represent all citizens. What a joke of a leader. This is civilized? Can you imagine the effect on our youth? Burch keeps lowering the bar. Words like his create a dangerous atmosphere where his invective against those who do not agree with him totally pollutes our communal environment. Who could imagine having a reasoned discussion with this person?

[Full Fullish on 17.12.05 at 18:32]

Hmmmmm, me thinks that the human fecal matter is about to hit the oscillating cooling device over Burch and his potty mouth.

I'm still very puzzled how he can still have a talk show which covers extremely political viewpoints and remain as a senator. Technically, each broadcast should be paid for in full by the PLP.

[Turtle on 17.12.05 at 18:56]

Looking at recent events (e.g. push on housing, drugs minister, no human rights for gays, constant glossing over the inaccuracies of the BIC report, the content of the Throne Speech, Berkeley close to occupation, St. George's Rest Home ditto) I would say that we are heading for an election in 2006. I am afraid that Colonel Burch's vitriolic name-calling is just the beginning.

It saddens me deeply to think that the PLP - who had such an opportunity to unite Bermuda in the first few years of their tenure - have squandered all the goodwill and support they had, and will now most likely fall back upon race in their attempt to continue in power.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 18.12.05 at 01:04]

RedOnion,

Thanks for the comments but really I am not looking for any accolades, I am only speaking what I feel. I would not join the UBP, been there done that but no one should suffer abuse (and there is a big difference between abuse and cirticism) for their choice of political party. When it comes to politics, in a democracy, which Bermuda still is, we have choices and we make those choices based on personal views.

As far as making 25 or so clones of me, no need for that there are a quiet a few out there who view things as I do. Many are more conservative in the public expression of their feelings than I am but their feelings are the same nonetheless.

[Kim Swan on 18.12.05 at 08:24]

Guilden's comments are indeed much apreciated, and although he is reluctant to reconnect with the United Bermuda Party he still knows that their are those of us who respect his views irrespective (as he does ours).
The key is, for the majority of us living in Bermuda to reach a point where all of us can respect each other notwithstanding our differences.
The absence of that important fundamental (respect) is at the root of numerous issues in Bermuda!!

Recent political rantings that serve to divide and further polarise Bermuda, being expoused by an appointed official, can only be characterised in two ways:

1. Politically Irresponsible
2. The message of the Day from the Leadership

I believe the later to be true. There is a parallel between the Col's message and the racial slurs the now Premier and his Deputy used to characterise a decision to join the the United Bermuda Party prior to the last election.
And, if that assumption holds merit, it should concern us all, especially as this comes on the heals of The Premiers "Blackberrygate".

Today, Bermuda remains as polarised as I have ever seen it during an election period. And it may be the hidden agenda the PLP'S election machine to keep that polarisation water boiling until the Premier(who may now choose to play the role of the "Good Cop")can see a window of opportunity and call an election.

It is incumbent on those of us committed to breaking down the walls that divide us to keep the discussions an efforts focused on " truth with the objective of reconciliation"

Sincerely,
Kim Swan

[3rd Person on 18.12.05 at 10:52]

Mr. Swan,

I am of the opinion and fear that the PLP will remain in power until the UBP actually participates in truth and reconciliation themselves. We need to stop and ask why the PLP can remain in power despite these gross errors in judgment. Obviously PLP supporters find something really missing in the UBP if the UBP cannot effectively address "Niggergate". I say that the UBP has not effectively addressed Niggergate because the sum of the response has been that the PLP just won't play nice - something we already know!

If the UBP is going to have a running chance, why stop at pointing out the obvious? If you are going to change minds, then you need to point out that the House Nigger comment has absolutely no validity. You cannot get around the core of the issue if you only focus on the Col's choice of words. Respond, firmly and honestly, not politically. That would be truth and reconciliation.

In a similar vein, the UBP does itself a disservice by only commenting on this blog when it is safe and convenient. You do not show support for truth and reconciliation by castigating the Premier over his email then remaining silent when Tony Brannon calls for a coup. And there are other heated questions that we never see you guys comment on. I guess what I'm really trying to say is stop calling for truth and reconciliation if you aren't going to be a catalyst for it (right now you aren't).

[ben on 18.12.05 at 11:03]

I dont think the politicians really understand the effect of comments like this in the community.(burch) If its intended to raise young support, I dont think its a successful strategy. I think it will distance the PLP party from the young voters of 18-30 because the majority dont identify with the rant of an older generation, So, election time will be full of apathy, on both sides, as substantial numbers of the community withdraw from political interest. I think that disappointment in our leaders on both sides is going to lead us into mediocre future. I repeat my call for a passionate strong opposition, I think we used to have one...

[3rd Person on 18.12.05 at 11:14]

Ben,

If you ask me, this is the perfect time for a 3rd party to come forth. The PLP and UBP are intellectual eunuchs incapable of leading us out of the quagmire.

[Raptor on 18.12.05 at 11:19]

Yes, to Guilden, who notes the difference between abuse and criticism.

Burch is a bully. Some people will get a kick out of that. Others won't.

Interesting post, 3rd Person. It would make sense for the UBP to be the drive behind some sort of truth and reconciliation effort. Where are they? Many people have commented that they’re not even sure what David Dodwell is doing. You make a valuable distinction between Burch’s nasty invective (choice of words) and the UBP’s failure to disprove his accusations about black leadership (or not) within the UBP.

[3rd Person on 18.12.05 at 19:58]

Raptor,

It would be excellent to see the UBP do this. Indeed, they should be leading the way as they have far greater racial representation in their leadership.

Back to my comment about Mr. Swan et al. I don't think that the Col's comment would be made much less offensive had he said something like, "Why is it that whenever we talk about independence the UBP sends out some misguided black wannabe to discredit us?" If I was Kim Swan, I wouldn't be complaining that the Col used the word "nigger," I'd be steamed that he has the audacity to claim that I was being used by white voters, and then I'd prove the absurdity of his comment by showing that blacks in the UBP are accepted on equal terms.

[Kim Swan on 18.12.05 at 20:48]

3rd Person
Thanks for your obsevations. I agree,the United Bermuda Party (and the PLP) must be a catalyst and an play a significant role in the process of Truth and Reconciliation. But, an equally important participant must be the greater Bermuda public.Unfortunately, getting all three in alignment may take some time.
The real issue in "Niggergate" is the high currency value racial slurs continues to carry, and knowing that the exchange rate remains strong, it remains real game to trade in politically.
But, those of us committed to reaching a higher plane must do our part to help us all get there together. Truth and Reconciliation will take a bipartisan effort and honest brokers are required from all quarters.
Also, "House Nigger" comments have a high currency rate in Bermuda because too many Bermudians are conveniently polarised on several fronts. Unfortunately, while there is a willingness amongst many Bermudians to move ahead, some are afraid to change, some don't want to change and some don't know where to start.

Politically, the real committment to improve race relations is greater than the aspirations of any political party's political ambitions.
And, when that level of committment becomes universal we can move beyond the infantile name calling that exist in Bermuda politics.

Truth and Reconciliation is the right thing for Bermuda, and I would be most pleased to stop calling for it when there becomes a significant movement for its existence. AND my highlighting the exploitation of race by any politician (in this case the plp)will not be necessary when they recognise that I and many others within the United Bermuda Party are committed to finding solutions and participating in the quest to build "One Bermuda".

Personally, the journey to help make a difference in Bermuda started a long time ago and has involved many mediums.

I don't often comment on this blog, but I enjoy reading the contributions of others made on this blog, and the contribution this blog makes to important isues in Bermuda.

Thanks again,
Kim Swan

[Tim Taylor on 18.12.05 at 21:20]

Kim,
You're a friend and a Brother, but, with respect,:
Bullshit.
If the UBP is to become the next Government, it has to start standing up to the core beliefs it professes in public.
Take a stand why don't you?
People won't vote for a Party with its thumb up its collective ass.
The people need to see an Opposition with firm platforms, opinions and a clear way forward. (What do you REALLY think about the fact of Independence - not just how to determine it?)
You have, up until now, projected the image of fence-sitters, scared of what an outright opinion may cost you in terms of votes.
This is not what the Bermudian voting public need.
For example - Grant Gibbons is white. Does that mean he is not qualified to lead the country? I happen to know Grant, at least to talk to on the street, and he's an okay guy, a regular Bermudian, and not the sort of stand-offish person you would expect him to be, given his family background. In fact, he's friendly, smart, has a laid-back sense of humour and is probably bottom of the class when it comes to political charisma. Big whoop.
Yet the PR from the the Party on this issue is wobbly, to say the least.
The PLP are all over you in terms of positioning - because they know that the public has a short memory, and that you can bleat about over-runs, corruption and payback as much as you want, but in the end, the PLP firmly believes that the Race Card trumps all. And guess what? On Election Day, they're right.

[3rd Person on 18.12.05 at 21:30]

'The real issue in "Niggergate" is the high currency value racial slurs continues to carry, and knowing that the exchange rate remains strong, it remains real game to trade in politically.'

Mr. Swan, I think the vast majority of Bermudians think that Col Burch is an asshole. Competent at getting things done, but an asshole nonetheless. So for that reason the racial slur actually has little value. We expect such low ball commentary from the PLP, just as we expect the UBP to package their commentary up so that no voter gets offended. As you learned in 1998, the electorate has learned to read between the lines. The reality is that most voters will support a competent asshole over a puppet leader with self-defeating allegiances (the real meaning of house nigger).

The question for you is why is it that PLP can get re-elected when its leaders use racial slurs like this one? I believe the answer is that the UBP has not and never deals with the context of the offense. The currency is not in the use of the word "nigger". It is in the degree to which voters believe that black UBP MPs are in fact being used by whites.

'Truth and Reconciliation is the right thing for Bermuda, and I would be most pleased to stop calling for it when there becomes a significant movement for its existence. AND my highlighting the exploitation of race by any politician (in this case the plp)will not be necessary when they recognise that I and many others within the United Bermuda Party are committed to finding solutions and participating in the quest to build "One Bermuda".'

Unfortunately your response above lends credence to the Col's comment. At first, you state that truth and reconciliation is the right thing for Bermuda, but you leave one to wonder why on earth the UBP has not made an effort to establish a truth and reconciliation process! It is almost as if the objective is to point out the exploitation of race rather than deal with the genesis of Bermuda's racial problems. As much as I'd love to deny the typical PLP criticism that the UBP is not serious about race, the proof is right before us, is it not?

Let me again recommend that you never respond to the slur without responding to the meaning of the slur, unless you want to see your credibility tank. When you avoid the bone the Col is really cutting, you sound like a bunch of crybabies. So if you can, stand up and demonstrate that Burch is not only wrong for using "nigger" but also for claiming that blacks are window dressing. Stand up and really engage in truth and reconciliation. Stand up and defend your integrity. Otherwise, prepare to lose the next election.

[Raptor on 18.12.05 at 21:44]

Kim, Yes, but….

You write that “the real issue” here is “the high currency value racial slurs continue to carry.”

Instead, I agree with 3rd Person that the real issue, which is going unanswered in a clear fashion, is the strength, positions, and influence of black Bermudians within the UBP leadership.

John Swan has complained about this; we’ve been told he’s out of date on the issue. But who’s going to believe that? And Burch has zeroed in on this issue in the most blatant way possible. They’re going to get you on it.

When are we going to hear more about what’s going on? Where are the rebuttals that will let us see the determination and leadership of black Bermudians in the UBP?

[Kim Swan on 18.12.05 at 21:56]

Tim,
My post was about race relations, racial sledging and the need for Bermuda to come to terms with the issues of race. I contend that " Truth and Reconciliation" will take a bipartisan effort and require the assistance of those so committed. I indicated that as long as racial slurs have currency, politicians will cash in.I offered those opinions because I am comfortable in my own skin and truly seek a greater level of maturity when dealing with the race issue. Personally, I have voiced that in many forums publicly and privately as one who has witnessed and felt the ill effects of Instutional Racism. In the ever search for a greater understanding of race relations, I offered a position on this blog and responded to a fellow contributor.
Sorry you thought what I wrote was fertilizer?
Sincerely,
Kim Swan

[Raptor on 18.12.05 at 22:09]

Kim, I appreciate your taking the time to write. Please respond to most of what was written above, if you will. It’s not just about race relations and racial slurs—it’s about what Burch was saying, the N word aside, about the position of blacks within the UBP leadership. Or maybe that just can’t be discussed, which means Burch wins, nasty words and all.

[Tim Taylor on 18.12.05 at 22:17]

Kim, you're missing my point.
What a lot of people want is a UBP that stands up and leads.
Partnership with the PLP on "truth and reconciliation" comittee - that's the LAST thing they want! Racial division is, apparently, the Government's preferred ticket to re-election.
If you, as a Party, don't go beyond that, you've had it. Get some initiatives in place and PUSH them. Yourselves. You. Only You. Get it?

[Uncle Elvis on 18.12.05 at 22:21]

"I think the vast majority of Bermudians think that Col Burch is an asshole. Competent at getting things done, but an asshole nonetheless."

Just curious... what has he "got done", other than build a reputation for "getting things done". I can't thing of anything that he's gotten done.

[Uncle Elvis on 18.12.05 at 22:28]

Amen, Tim, Amen.

We need leadership, dudes. We need it bad.

[Tim Taylor on 18.12.05 at 22:39]

Going back to the original post by Phil, and my subsequent posts, I'm moved to ask a serious question:
Does the Government really intend to use race AGAIN as an election weapon? Do black Bermudians continue to buy this?

[Uncle Elvis on 18.12.05 at 22:44]

Unfortunately, I can see this happening all too easily.
Doubly unfortunate is that it will probably work.

[blovator on 18.12.05 at 22:51]

Some people characterize Burch as an asshole who gets things done. I can't remember him getting anything done. What has he done?

[loki on 18.12.05 at 22:58]

"Does the Government really intend to use race AGAIN as an election weapon?"

Tim, the sad fact is that the PLP has strayed so far from its cores values that Freddie Wade must be turning in his grave. The current PLP administration is a vacuous non-entity: it doesn't have anything other than race to use as a means to bait the electorate. Literally, it has nothing else.

[Tim Taylor on 18.12.05 at 23:24]

Loki, be respectful with who's name you use, bro.
I KNEW Freddie Wade,and, as I have said before, the Party has lost more than it knows. Feddie cared, and although you may not have agreed with his policies, you couldn't disagree with his passion.
Sir John Swan and Mr. Wade were close friends, (they even sold boats to each other) and I'll bet they would have had close opinions about a way forward, but for the betterment of Bermuda - not select individuals.
NEITHER of these men would use Race as a political weapon.
I just ask our current politicians to follow Mr. Wade's example.

[blovator on 19.12.05 at 00:55]

Swan always used race as a weapon. He repeatedly avoided the issue of racism because he had more to gain from keeping the races appart. The UBP thought it couldn't live without him. The PLP lost it's principal advantage - racial singularity - when he was Premier. He had nothing to gain from a resolved racial conflict and so he did not attempt to resolve it. When he left, the particular political equation that support the UBP collapsed and in came the PLP, who won simply because they happened to be the last man standing. Since then the PLP has done nothing to eliviate the racial conflict because it is served even more directly by the conflict. The UBP has been so badly beaten that the PLP has been able to do almost nothing in way of governance and look good beside them.

Swan was a quintescential Bermudian racial oriented politician exceeded only perhaps by Jack Tucker.

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 07:07]

"Does the Government really intend to use race AGAIN as an election weapon? Do black Bermudians continue to buy this?"

Okay, irony here. Right before us Kim Swan has totally flaked out on black leadership in the UBP. I believe that it is pure politics to point out racial exploitation without leading the way to truth and reconciliation yourself. I still have not heard a credible answer from Mr. Swan for why the UBP is not leading the way in this process. All I'm hearing is bullshit. He has yet to address the meaning behind Burch's comment, and any black voter is going to distrust him for refusing to address the key issue here (not nigger, but puppeteering).

On top of that achilles' heel, we are here ripping the UBP for being fence sitters with no meaningful opinion about anything. Really folks, if we aren't convinved of the UBP's leadership ability on things like race and independence, why propose that blacks "fell" for the Government's use of race as a weapon? If anything, the UBP's continued failure to lead on these key issues will encourage blacks to think that it is still a party that first and foremost represents the wishes of white Bermudians. This is an environment where few people are impressed with the leadership of either party. So when Burch and Swan make such comments, and the response from black UBP leaders is the likes of KS response above (BS), race isn't merely a weapon - race is the point and the PLP knows it.

[loki on 19.12.05 at 07:58]

Bro. Tim - what the hell are you talking about!? Read what I said. Actually, I'll repeat it verbatim for you: "the sad fact is that the PLP has strayed so far from its core values that Freddie Wade must be turning in his grave." What the hell is remotely disrespectful about that?

[Raptor on 19.12.05 at 09:06]

I’m sure PLP leadership are students of Karl Rove and George Bush—create "new" realities and convince people of them. Look at what they did with John Kerry’s military record. What I’ve read again and again is the importance to responding to these manipulative moves strongly and quickly. The UBP is not doing that either.

PLP is definitely using race as an election weapon. They’ve already started. Look at what Burch alone has said. P doesn’t even open his mouth to disagree with him or rein him in.

Burch has done something rather extraordinary: he’s taken a heavily loaded issue and arguments that usually take place behind closed doors (“our own laundry”) and brought them out into public consideration. In that regard, I guess I would have to disagree with Patricia Gordon-Pamplin that he’s in a cave somewhere (except for the fact that it brings to mind a nefarious being). He’s right out front. He has taken one of the most potent and challenging slavery/historical/present issues for blacks—the field versus house negro—and spit it into the latters’ faces. For the average person who might be swayed by his words, it’s going to translate as the difference between a black person who is struggling to get by (field) and one who is successful and part of the new economy (house, but under their white “masters’” wings). So he’s neatly wrapped a lot of race and class up into one bomb, then attached some nasty words to make sure it was heard.

I would guess Burch doesn’t have to get anything done. He can just be P’s attack dog.

PLP leadership is manipulating for power and control, and they’re using race and class to do it. They'll have to keep the sound turned up high on these issues so many voters don't consider their poor performance.

I have to agree with 3rd Person. I’ve read and re-read Kim Swan’s posts, but I don’t feel as though he’s saying anything. He’s certainly not saying what needs to be said. Not only that, but 3rd Person comes up with “puppeteering,” a good word to neatly define what we’re trying to get a response on: are blacks within the UBP puppets? Just how is the power shared there?

I have no trouble understanding why so many vote for the PLP either. UBP is not showing leadership, is not getting strong ideas and points of view out there, is not convincing people that they’re behind black opportunity.

Tim, loki didn’t say anything disrespectful about Freddie Wade. Wish he was here.

[thisgrassman on 19.12.05 at 09:37]

Just curious... what has he "got done", other than build a reputation for "getting things done". I can't thing of anything that he's gotten done.

Posted by Uncle Elvis on 18.12.05 at 22:2

Good question Elvis.

His CV must be a joke - full of very short tenures at many different jobs - handed to him by his political cronies. How the fuck are you meant to get anything done when you only hang around in a position for 6-8 weeks?

Does anybody remember his grand standing over the crooked contractors who were gouging the BHC for years? He promised everyone of them would be made to pay back monies improperly gained. So what happened - nothing. The BHC know who they are because they have a list of companies that are now "blackballed" from any future tender lists.

[b,w&p?? on 19.12.05 at 10:17]

Guilden,
I know I'm late to the wicket in stating this, but you have made some excellent points here. I know we differ in opinions on a few issues but on this we stand as brothers...as Bermudians. Well said my friend.

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 10:37]

Raptor

"PLP leadership is manipulating for power and control, and they’re using race and class to do it. They'll have to keep the sound turned up high on these issues so many voters don't consider their poor performance."

On reflection of Kim Swan's commentary the scary reality is that the UBP has nothing to offer but criticism of the PLP. Without ideas of their own, conviction/passion for a certain issue and the will to publicly defend themselves when it counts, they simply cannot impress anyone. We need an Opposition to do more than just talk about truth and reconciliation, castigating the PLP over using nigger and staying silent when they should be up front and centre. On that basis it could also be argued that the UBP is manipulating race for power and control (see Blovator's John Swan commentary).

"I have to agree with 3rd Person. I’ve read and re-read Kim Swan’s posts, but I don’t feel as though he’s saying anything. He’s certainly not saying what needs to be said. Not only that, but 3rd Person comes up with “puppeteering,” a good word to neatly define what we’re trying to get a response on: are blacks within the UBP puppets? Just how is the power shared there?"

Just go back to E.T. Richards', "Are we being used?" situation. What Burch has said is offensive, but it is not new. Past UBP MPs have raised the issue, and the UBP will not get past it until they defend themselves. They simply will not convince black voters that they are not puppets if they won't stand up and denounce the real charges instead of focusing on the languge (or in the case of John Swan's condemnation, staying mute).

[Raptor on 19.12.05 at 10:53]

3rd Person, Blovator says UBP manipulated race for power and control under John Swan and Jack Tucker. How are they doing it now in a way that works for them at all? They’re not. Why do they even think that what they’re doing is working? Why don’t they simply come out strongly and clearly for opportunities for black Bermudians instead, for example. The voters are left having to choose between manipulators.

Yes, I can see that the puppet issue is not new but Burch has put a big spin on it this time.

I agree with all you’ve written: UBP “simply will not convince black voters that they are not puppets if they won't stand up and denounce the real charges instead of focusing on the language (or in the case of John Swan's condemnation, staying mute).”

[Yet Another Limey on 19.12.05 at 11:25]

I think I have the solution to our Guilden love in.

Many of us here (including myself) see Guilden as a voice of reason on the PLP side of the fence and the kind of person who many people of this country could unite behind.

However (understandably), Guilden does not want to uproot his family and give up has good career for the uncertain and relatively low paid world of politics.

So, I say we let the PLP take us independent then overthrow the government and make Guilden king! All we need is some strange woman lying in Spittal pond to hand him a sword and Bob (or in our case Elvis) is your uncle.

Of course the alternative is to become an anarcho-syndicalist commune and
take it in turns to act as a sort of executive officer for the week. But all the decisions of that officer would have to be ratified at a special biweekly meeting by a simple majority in the case of purely internal affairs but by a two-thirds majority in the case of more …

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 19.12.05 at 11:27]

b,w&p,

While we differ on some issues I think overall our hopes are identical, a better Bermuda for ALL Bermudians.

[Monsignor Treeb Lopez on 19.12.05 at 11:53]

b,w&p,

While we differ on some issues I think overall our hopes are identical, a better Bermuda for ALL Bermudians.

Not for all residents?

[Tim Taylor on 19.12.05 at 12:22]

Loki - my full and humble apologies. You are correct. I am wrong. Sorry.

[Uncle Elvis on 19.12.05 at 12:39]

"All we need is some strange woman lying in Spittal pond to hand him a sword and Bob (or in our case Elvis) is your uncle."

Does this mean I get to lie in Spittal Pond with a woman? Or do you want me to get in drag?
I don't do that... any more.
And where the heck would we get a sword?
Wouldn't a machete be more appropriate?

3rd person, etc.
Your points are very valid, but they seem to at best, ignore the PLPs behaviour and, at worst, be saying "It's ok, because the UBP aren't doing anything."
Yes, the UBP aren't proving themselves to be leaders. They aren't doing anything to help the situation, but it doesn't exonerate people like Col. Burch or Mr. Scott (or people that look and sound like them) and their behaviour.

Remember, we're all in the same boat when it comes to the parties. S'just some are on the port and some are on the starboard. (Me, I like going up to the bow and trying to rock it a little bit, but that's just me. Hey, feel free to waterski, if you want. Just remember: It's the same boat.)

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 12:47]

Raptor,

I think the racial manipulation from the UBP is in presenting themselves as a party that sincerely wants to address race. They do this by calling for truth & reconciliation while making no effort to start the process. The objective is to cast the PLP as divisive (easy to prove in Burch's case), while presenting themselves as inclusive (a claim that does not withstand scrutiny as per Kim's lack of response). The net of it is that neither party really does anything to address racism, and the real reasons for "house nigger" never gets dealt with. The problem for black voters is that they can't tell if this is just racial apathy in the UBP, or racial deception. In the absence of clarity, I think blacks will reject the UBP on the assumption that it is deception.

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 12:59]

Uncle Elvis,

I'm not ignoring the PLP's behaviour. I've clearly stated that there are reasons why the UBP can't/won't get elected despite the PLP's poor performance and lack of leadership on race. I'm not saying that it is okay, at all. I'm describing the realities of the situation as I believe that black voters see it. We can all see for ourselves why blacks would be unconvinced to switch over. We can all see for ourselves that even whites remain unconvinced that the UBP has solid leadership. That's why I said above that this is an optimum time to start a 3rd party (with the demise of the UBP being the obvious result).

[Uncle Elvis on 19.12.05 at 13:07]

Why the demise of just the UBP?

Haven't the PLP proved to you that they are JUST as corrupt, just as self-involved, just as bad for the country?

If you're going to be biased, at least PRETEND to be fair.

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 14:41]

Slow your horse, Elvis. I believe that both parties should be gone, but the reality is that the first to go is likely the UBP. If they can't beat a racially divisive party with a piss-poor record of delivering solutions, then it's high time the UBP considered an obituary. Grant Gibbons should be beating Alex Scott just by breathing every morning, but he's not.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 19.12.05 at 17:47]

MTL,

You are correct, ALL residents.

[blovator on 19.12.05 at 18:25]

3rd person and Elvis -

I'll take it one further and say the UBP maybe crucial to the PLP's existence. Without the UBP, the PLP loses it's mirror and since they nothing but reflections of each other, when one goes, so does the other.

I'ts no accident that Burch presents the race issue in psuedo-historical terms. We can't actually disprove what he says because his references are all literary. - relying on "common sense" and historical generalization. The last thing he wants to do is actually address the issue. If the issue of race is emiliorated, the premise for his political existence disappears, and he's just another Bermudian loud-mouth.

If one or the other of the two parties extricates itself from it's reliance on the racial agon, it will be defeat the other party resoundingly and another party will have to replace the loser.

Racism in Bermuda used to be rhetorically invisible. You had to read the code of oppression that existed here. Now the dialectic has reversed itself. It is overt, almost cinematic, it plays out dramatically and the effect is spectacular. Quite often it is completely delusional and the fantastic effects are simply the result of racial logic worked out decades ago that no longer applies.

The party that can hone it's message to a racially aware principle that deals directly with the reality of present day Bermudian economic problems will defeat the other. But it will take a someone to invent that new principle and the story about Bermuda that it will imply.

In short - we need a new Jack Tucker.

[Jim Saltzer on 19.12.05 at 18:33]

Anyone hear the news on the radio about the new party that's being formed?

[Full Fullish on 19.12.05 at 19:30]

Nope tell us more....

[3rd Person on 19.12.05 at 20:17]

Blovator,

I wholeheartedly agree on your first and last paragraph. I'm foggy with the middle considering Kim Swan's failure to respond to the thread any further.

[Jim Saltzer on 19.12.05 at 21:38]

So now we have the Poor Peoples Party......Jinks as Finance Minister no doubt.....

[blovator on 19.12.05 at 22:24]

If you look at old newspapers and photographs there is no awareness of any overt attempt to oppress blacks or portugese. The standard of social strata is bourne without comment by all. There is very little actual direct comment on the terms of the society demarkated by racial terms. It is, therefore, rhetorically invisible. You needed to look hard to see the terms of oppression. It was covert.

What happens after the WWII is the gradual developement of a way of speaking about race that is overt. It expicates the social condition directly by identifying bermudians society as one divided by race. Before people understand the depth of thier oppression, they have to have a way of speaking about it.

Bob Marley is a perfect example of this. Of course there was a vocabulary for speaking about being the underdog before the Mighty Bob, but he gave the whole enterprise a spiritual vocabulary - a way of justifying the struggle as a way of , not only becoming free but also ( very important ) that the inner-self would also be improved, revitalized, redeemed after centuries of humiliation.

Now, the whole process has gone the other way. Where as before one had to intuit the secrets, now one is blasted with judgement. Instead of creating a way of speaking about our condition, we are told what to think and why. The terms and reality of oppression are disappearing. The colour and drama of the debate have taken on a life of thier own.

The fact is, race in Bermuda, is the seminal forming term of society, and to politicians it is just too valuable to let go. It has enormous political leverage as long as one maintains it's apparent truth.

The rhetoric has gone wild. And with less and less truth to hold it down, there is less and less reason for it to be connected to the truth. It can acquire a reality of it's own. That's why when Burch starts talking about House "N******S" and field blacks and other absurd and archaic historical conventions, he is actually listened to. This is also why the UBP simply can not put its house in order. The PLP is right. THe UBP was deeply reliant on racial perceptions in order to get elected. They all be sweet good people now, but that does not mean they have put thier political house in order.

They have stopped being one thing and have not yet started to be another. Same situation as the Tories in England.

[SmokingGun on 19.12.05 at 22:53]

So are you saying that Burch is therefore justified in some way or another refer to members of the UBP as House N's? If so then surely those same people could reply back that Burch must be a form of N as well because he looks like them and shares there racial heritage. Maybe they could just refer to him as "just another Stupid N from the PLP."

But of course they would not do that. Why? Because for one, maybe the people in the UBP have moved on from the past as far as equality between races is concerned and two they do not wish to lower their standards to such base and divisive antagonistic behaviour.

Is it not possible that as we move into the year 2006, there are people who have received a strong education, have learned from history, have decided to make a difference in the future and who do not wish to be forced to lower their standards by dealing with a bigot on his terms? I think the UBP is getting it's house in order and it's doing so through the proper channels such as the Human Rights Commission etc. When these channels prove they are not able to handle biggoted members of governmemnt the UBP will throw that on their list of things that they will correct and make sure happens in their campaign for election.

I think the UBP is giving the PLP just enough rope to hang itself.

[blovator on 20.12.05 at 02:08]

Burch has no justification for what he is doing. He is simply playing the racial violin. The trick is never stay in the same key : always change the pitch of debate, keep changing the rythum. It's pure politics. I imagine he hopes to get somewhere with it. It has worked for others. But not always. And its a tricky peice. most people mess it up.

If I were the UBP I would be much more aggresive. I would demand that Burch stick to his definition and accuse those he considers to be in league with racists. That is what a kitchen N is supposed to be. Who are these Ns working for. It is a matter of some importance that these people be exposed. For the good of the country. Lets get on with it and solve this problem.

If Burch does not wish to back up his statements then clearly he is a defrauding and missleading the public. That should be noted in very loud and continuous voice by the UBP.

But time and time again, the UBP picks one issue - the lame T Brannon issue for example. Who really cares if AS gets mad because T Brannon can't undo his caps lock. Perhaps it would be better to complain about education again and present an education plan.

But then of course they would have to have and education plan. Which they apparently don't. Thats lucky for the PLP because of course they don't have one either. Where is the UBP critique of the PLP proposal for the attourney general? What do THEY think should be done about housing?

It's not like the PLP has come up with a trencher of really hot ideas and is putting them into practice so fast the UBP can't keep up. There has'nt been decent idea in PLP for some months now. ( God Bless Renee ) Any time the UBP wants to start rowing they are welcome. We're all drowing here.

[3rd Person on 20.12.05 at 07:27]

Smoking Gun,

To reply in such a manner would be to focus on the language and not the real accusation. Had Kim Swan done what Blovator recommended, the UBP wouldn't look like a bunch of crybabies without a clue. We could at least respect them for saying, "NO I AM NOT A HOUSE NIGGER! NO I AM NOT HERE TO DO THE BIDDGING OF WHITE BERMUDIANS! and most importantly THIS IS WHY I DO/DON'T SUPPORT INDEPENDENCE." Without question the PLP would attempt to hit back, but the black UBP members would not have left their agenda open to allegations of puppeteering. As it stands voters are left to wonder exactly why they won't stand up to such a nasty allegation, and it will certainly be a problem at the polls.

[SmokingGun on 20.12.05 at 11:11]

Blovator & 3rd Person you both make valid points. It is a wonder why the UBP doesn't try to be more vocal about this issue and expose those that must obviously support these antics. I can only assume they are playing some sort of political game/agenda as well.

What is somewhat surpising is John Swan, a man who likes to be vocal, hasn't said boo. And in his time he was obviously the Head Boy of the House N's according to Burch. Either he agrees or he must have some real estate business on the table that he wants to get approved by Burch I guess.

It really is such a shame that grown men like Burch and his approvers feel free to subjugate their own free thinking people to bolster their seriously flawed agendas.

[3rd Person on 20.12.05 at 13:23]

Smoking,

What perplexes me most is that I don't know how any self-respecting person can resist responding to such an ugly accusation. Assuming that it has no validity, I can think of several ways to effectively respond to Burch and Swan while keeping the real issues on the table. I can think of many ways to make the PLP look really stupid for resorting to such behavior and make them regret making the statement. So then why, why, why stay silent? Why allow yourself to get kicked over and over?

[SmokingGun on 20.12.05 at 13:51]

Well I think the response was attempted through HRC. The fact that Roban is demanding an apology from the UBP over Gordon-Pamplin's request just goes to show these guys are totally out of touch. These guys don't even know how to keep their mouths shut and distance themselves from such biggoted views. I'm sorry but if the PLP thinks you are a lesser person because you are a black person working with white people then it can't say much for Mr. Phillip Butterfield at the Bank of Bermuda.

[3rd Person on 20.12.05 at 14:36]

Smoking,

The PLP is getting away with the comments because they are precisely NOT saying you are less of a person for working WITH white people. The house nigger allegation is that you are less of a person for deceptively or ignorantly working FOR white people, often for person gain (see your own comment about Swan's real estate) and at the expense of the broader black interest.

The PLP's argument isn't necessarily segregationist. They are outright saying that the UBP represents the views/desires of people who are not genuinely interested in equality. This is yet another reason why the UBP should not be focused on the language of Burch's remark. This is the time when they should be demonstrating that the party is looking out for the interest of both races while demonstrating that the PLP is only interested in black interests. Make a case to defend yourself and attack your adversary! Only by doing that will you gain respect.

[SmokingGun on 20.12.05 at 15:02]

Well in my book one could be born black as the ace of spades or as white as bone china. Doesn't matter because we all end up old and gray.
If these guys think they can continue to get away with thinking the people of Bermuda are dumb enough not to know what's going on then all the more reason to get more honest talk out there. Question everything. I think people in Bermuda are seriously getting tired of the fact it's just so hard to see much dignity and respect in one's daily life in Bermuda.

[Ethiops on 20.12.05 at 15:18]

The youth may have a view different from you all. Maybe they would want to know if he said nigga or nigger. One thing tho ya'll niggas is buggin.

[SmokingGun on 20.12.05 at 15:48]

Makes perfect sense Ethiopsi

If that's the case then Burch is looking pretty damn old for his age........

[3rd Person on 20.12.05 at 16:21]

Fair enough, Smoking. My view is that PLP supporters aren't up in arms because they are smart enough to understand what Burch is actually saying underneath the vitriol, and won't be believe in UBP leadership until the party addresses the real issue behind the remark AND comes up with positions on key issues. And let's not forget, even if we didn't have a race issue, the UBP's leadership issues are still very much there.

[Uncle Elvis on 20.12.05 at 16:47]

Couple things before I knock off...

Ethiops, come on... I don't think anyone is asking what he meant. I think everyone has deduced that he meant what he said and said what he meant, as vile as that is.

3rd, so... um... you're saying that there ARE "House... " in the UBP?
In this day and age, does that phrase even work, other than as a divisive slur?

Me, I think you guys have said your pieces on this, stated your opinions very well and are now going in circles.

It's the same thing we always say here. The UBP need to step up to the wicket and that the PLP need to get rid of the shmucks ruining everything for everyone except themselves.
It don't matter which side of the boat you're on, it's the same thing.

Now... as I've said before...

What the hell are we going to do about it?

Uncle I was going for that Chris Rock effec