Open mike: Calvin Smith on race

The following submission was sent in by Calvin Smith.

This morning at 4:00am, I accidentally entered your blog “Limey in Bermuda”. I had sworn off the blog after reading it once before and finding the correspondence so anti-Calvin Smith, I decided I did not need that kind of punishment in my own bedroom. However that was not to be!

I opened your blog to see if there was someone else being attacked besides me. However, apart from the regular contributors beating up on each other, I was still on the attack list. Again I found myself getting annoyed. However, this time my annoyance did not result from the attacks but from the many distortions of what I was supposed to have said and/or meant.

After reading awhile, I realized that what I was calling attacks was real disagreement. For that reason I decided to give my viewpoint with respect to some of the remarks attributed to me.

1. I was quoted as saying that “I suffered through three white universities”. There should have been nothing surprising here, even for whites. I was advised to attend the universities in question because my certification would not be considered with the same creditability if it was obtained in a Black university, even Howard. As a result, I lost the opportunity to meet very bright, aggressive, talented blacks and establish the contacts that would have helped me to assist my black brothers and sisters in Bermuda to escape the morass in which they found themselves. It was in that respect that I suffered.

2. It is very difficult to establish the prejudice that enables racism to thrive. Most people are not aware of their prejudices and hence their racism becomes much more difficult to deal with. Fortunately, as a economic statistician and a former Judo instructor, I am forced to face facts more than most persons.

3. In one of your comments, someone said that he spoke to me for 20 minutes after the City Hall rally and that I told him that I regretted the “Go to Hell” remark. I don’t remember the incident but what he reported was essentially correct. My wife shared my fears about attending the rally, since she, like myself, was aware of the racial tension in the air and warned, “You know you are not likely to say anything that audience wants to hear and you shouldn’t go if you do not think you can control your temper”. Hence, after the “Go to Hell” remark she screamed, “I told you not to come over here because I knew you would blow it”. That was what accounted for my regret remark.

4. It is very difficult to prove that a person has been a victim of discrimination. The United States laws with respect to discrimination are based upon the percentage of blacks in the area compared with the percentage of blacks in the organization in the area being accused of discrimination.

5. One of your writers seemed to be saying that if you don’t discuss race it will go away. I cannot share that view. Bermuda’s history shows that if you don’t talk about race, you are lulled into a false sense of security and eventually there is a serious upheaval. The Civil Disturbances that erupted at BELCO on February 2nd 1965 nearly cost lives. However, the Civil Service was integrated at the senior ranks within the same year.

6. Associated with the point made in #5 is the belief that we need to look at black successes as much as or even more than the failures. I agree. In fact blacks who have managed to remain positive, despite the odds, are usually very successful. Examples abound: Dick Richards; Buddy Thomas; Frederick Yearwood; and Boo Brown to name a few.

7. The progress of blacks in the high pay professional, technical and related jobs as indicated by the Censuses of 1960 and 2000 is nothing short of very, very, startling. According to the 1960 Census there were 44 blacks and 526 whites in this group. By the year 2000 the number of blacks in this group had risen 52 fold to 2,301. This was serious progress by Blacks. Whites, on the other hand, rose six fold to 2,936. Even allowing for errors in enumeration and classification, this is clearly a phenomenal advance by Blacks. Changes such as these can be found in every aspect of black existence in Bermuda. But what do we talk about (both races)? Why, the wall sitters of course.
   

Comments

[Michael Taylor on 07.09.06 at 09:18]

Welcome to the site Mr. Smith! I hope you find the discussion format uselful and stick around a while. No doubt, many will disagree with you and even attack you which can be a very hard thing to witness on your computer screen as most of the regulars know firsthand. At least here you can respond, clarify, correct or even fight back almost instantly if and when you wish.

[Raptor on 07.09.06 at 09:34]

Welcome, Calvin Smith.

Thoughtful criticism happens a lot more on this blog than personal attacks, which the Limey is not fond of. I’m glad you went from seeing “attacks” to seeing “disagreements.” Limey’s goal, as it says at the top of the screen, is “getting Bermuda talking.”

Yes, I remember one of the contributors said something about not discussing race and it would go away. That’s crazy! I agree with you about the need for dialogue.

I am very happy and encouraged by black Bermudian successes. The reason “wall sitters” are mentioned here so much is that people would rather see them as successes too. It’s all about how we get there from here.

Hope you stick around and contribute to the discourse. It's an effective way to communicate.

[silencedogood on 07.09.06 at 09:46]

Calvin,

I too am glad you have decided to join in. We will probably disagree in the future, but it's nothing personal.

If we can both discuss the issues rather than attack each other then we are one step closer to what I'm sure is our shared goal of a positive future for Bermuda.

[weaselguard on 07.09.06 at 09:50]

Thank you Mr. Smith. One way to enhance understanding and appreciation of diversity is through storytelling. I liked the repartee with Mrs. Smith.

[The Right Reverend Uncle Elvis on 07.09.06 at 10:28]

Welcome, Mr. Smith!

Here's to hoping you stick around.

If you do, you're gonna find a bunch of people that will disagree with you. Heck, you're gonna be beat up on quite badly, I predict... just like the rest of us.
I just hope that the impression I have of you - that of a man who's not afraid of speaking his mind and being roughed up a bit for it - is the right one.
The wonderful thing about this service that Limey provides is that it offers the opportunity to rebut instantly, or almost instantly, dependant on how addicted... er... dedicated to the site you become, on a daily basis.
Personally, I look forward to debates with you, as there are many things that we don't see eye to eye on. I look forward to learning about your point of view and your experiences and hope you're willing and interested in learning about mine. Hopefully, we can do a little give-and-take and find a middle ground that we can become happy with. Isn't that the way to understanding?

Just to go through the points of your missive:

1) I never went to University or college, but I can assure you that with my track record with institutes of learning, I would have suffered there, as well!

2)Most people are not aware of their prejudices and hence their racism becomes much more difficult to deal with
This is one of the things that I, and many, if not most, others are trying to do here. In the past year or so that I've been active here, I have learned so much about myself and my prejudices, about how I look at the world and how that jibes with how others look at it, from people like Guilden, Ethiops and jake, as well as many others. I'd like to think that I've helped others to learn about themselves, as well.

3) Your wife sounds like a good lady. Keep a hold of her! *grin* It's not often that you find someone that'll call you on your shit! I know that I, too, have lucked out in that regard.

4)This is a kinda big one. For me, one of the things I'd like to see happen here on the blog and in general, is that we can come to an understanding about discrimination. I think black folks want white folks to understand that when they see someone promoted instead of them that it feels like it's because of their race, whether it is or isn't. (That's just a top-of-my-head example, by the way)
I think white folks want black folks to understand that they're not refusing service or not renting to someone because they're black, it's because they're wearing a "Kill Whitey" tshirt over jeans 5 sizes too big that are hanging around their knees while driving a $100,000 car with a $250,000 sound system in it, trying to rent a $500 a month basement studio and asking for a little help with the rent. Dig me?
(And that example was from a real life experience. I'm not saying that all black folks are drug dealers. Just that the guy WAS a drug dealer, and quite oviously so, and complained that the reason that the guy wouldn't rent to him was 'cuz he's black. Ummmm.. RIIIIIIGHT)

ANNNNYway...

We all gotta come to an understanding on this. I'm not refusing to give you a drink at the bar 'cuz yer black. It's 'cuz it's 3:45 in the morning, the bar is closed and I want to go home.
And I gotta recognize that people get off for driving drunk and killing someone 'cuz "He's from a good family" (Heck, even I can decypher that one!).

5) I don't recall this one, but I can almost guarantee that he got smacked down for saying it!

6)I agree as well. But we also have to stop seeing things like that. I said in a post a few months ago that I look forward to the day that we stop seeing the phrases "Black success" and "the first Black [whatever]". It shouldn't be the exception to the rule. It shouldn't be a feat to be black and a success. It should be commonplace.

7) First off, those stats should be pushed and pushed and made news. I wasn't aware of them and they give me SO much hope! It's so good to see the progress we have made.
As for the wallsitters. Welp, yeah, we should be talking about the successes and progresses, but we do also have to address the problem... and they are a problem. Like race, they won't go away if we don't talk about them.

In closing, I just want to reiterate my welcome and look forward to your participation, should you choose to.

[Martin on 07.09.06 at 10:39]

Mr Smith...welcome indeed as everyone else has already said.

You seem to be the kind of guy who "tells it as it is" and probably doesn't take any prisoners either.

So with that in mind, perhaps you could give your views on one thing.

Perception can often be a problem. We all know that one's perception can become one's truth, and it is often difficult to break that perception - in particular where there are no facts or evidence to do so.

One of the perceptions on this blog (along with many others) is that this Goverment is racist and has no interest in eliminating racism. Indeed, if you only take Ewart Brown's remarks of "a vote for the UBP is a vote to go back to the plantation" as just one example, perhaps you can see where some of us are coming from.

I cannot see any evidence to suggest otherwise and the problem with that is that as long as that perception remains, then society as a whole has a problem.

Would you care to comment?

[SmokingGun on 07.09.06 at 13:25]

Calvin - you make more sense in black and white.

PS: I don't think it's good idea to invite Limey et al. into the bedroom either. ;-)

[m on 07.09.06 at 14:02]

as a former judo instructor, i too am forced to face facts more than most persons.

[Blue Eyed Devil on 07.09.06 at 15:14]

Dear Mr. Smith,

The problem is the "black power" faction just will not listen to other points of view or give any other viewpoint credit for not being racist or ill-intentioned.

Your response to a racially motivated, nearly fatal attack was to say "let's not say anything bad about the attitudes or behavior of black people." I understand now that the Bermuda government does not have any interest in my physical safety, much less my personal dignity.

Bermuda desperately needs leaders who are interested in doing something to help people at the bottom of society, but political performance art seems to be the order of the day.

[Ali on 07.09.06 at 15:55]

Welcome Calvin, we are not a bad lot really and I think the reason most of us take time to visit this blog is because we care about Bermuda. There are a number of questions I would ask you but I don't want to bore the readers too much.
I would like to make a point about your #7. It's great to see progress by blacks, our great statesman Sir. Henry Tucker understood and promoted the theory that a large middle class would be best for Bermuda and that included blacks.Like it or not the UBP were light years ahead on that issue. What I take exception to as a white person is constantly hearing that blacks are 'held back', when in fact employers will welcome with open arms any black Bermudian who shows willingness to learn and progress. Look at the all the black women in particular who have good jobs as an example. The message should be that one needs to get out and work for a living and that Bermuda has endless opportunities, instead of the rhetoric and excuses that we have heard for years. We do not only talk about the boys on the wall, but you must admit, there are too many of them.

[Suzanne Mayall on 07.09.06 at 16:20]

Ali

Your suggestion that "when in fact employers will welcome with open arms any black Bermudian who shows willingness to learn and progress" negates the effects of institutionalised racism entirely. Are you saying it doesn't exist? Are you saying black people who have failed to achieve have failed to "get out and work for a living." It is not always about intentionally holding people back - it is a systemic problem born of deep-seated societal prejudices.

Your comments also suggest that what people want it to hold down a "good job" in a great white company. This is also about access to capital, becoming owners and players in the economic pie.

The naivety of your comments suggests that a revisit of Mr. Smith's point #2 may be warranted.

[Darkside on 07.09.06 at 16:58]

Suzanne M: If I may add to your point on institutionalised racism by adding insttitutionalised sexism as it would appear from the offcie population of Hamilton that employers are far more willing to embrace a black female than a black male in the office work environment.

[weaselguard on 07.09.06 at 17:07]

Could it be that women are more willing in Bermuda to begin on the ground floor as a clerk or secretary, seek further education thereafter and gradually move up the ladder?

Doesn't sound sexy, but, excuse the pun, it gets the job done.

[silencedogood on 07.09.06 at 17:26]

Suzanne,

your interpretation that a "good job" references a "great white company" is very telling.

Welcome to the real world--most people don't own the company they work for unless its publicly traded, and then only a small amount.

Can you clarify your statement please because it seems to be based on an assumption that:

1) All or most whites own the companies they work for.
--untrue unless your name is gibbons

2) Blacks don't
--There may be a disproportionate rate due to the head start some, but certainly not all, white families have had in bermuda, but in absolute terms i doubt it very much

3) Blacks are being denied the opportunity to start their own companies or otherwise participate in the economy.
--again, I doubt this very much. Bermuda's full of opportunity which too many, white and black, overlook.

If anything is responsible for lower rates of participation of any group in the economy it's level of educational attainment. I would look to the 52% graduation rate in the public schools as the main culprit. One can't participate in the economy if they lack the skills required to do so. I have yet to meet an educated black bermudian who has not done extremely well financially or otherwise.

[selkieman on 07.09.06 at 18:20]

SDG, yr right, education is the key, but it doesn't necessarily open the same doors for everyone. Many whites, thru cultural networks have access possibilities not available to others. It's not as simple as owning 100% of yr own company. The means by which any group maintains its financial power aren't an arcane science. The bottom line is that it is a class issue bound up with race.

It’s all about economics. In absolute terms, 20% of Bermudians live below the poverty line, Most of those are black. Many of those hold down multiple jobs, which is nothing more than wage-slavery wrapped up in aspirational materialism. That's key as well.

Taking advantage of entrepreneurial opportunity is only one form of economic access and opportunity, and has as much to do with cultural/social factors, (not race BTW), as it does access to capital. The ’one model fits all’ argument put forward by many on here as the panacea to black poverty and it’s attendant problems on the island, comes close to the kind of cultural hegemony that lies at the heart of institutionalised racism. There’s more to it than just asking, ‘oh why can’t they just be more like us’ ?

A more interesting question would be to ask what is required to create a sense of engagement in the wider society that lifts that 20% out of poverty. As would making the case for a living wage for all, so that ordinary working people don't need to have at 2/3 jobs just to survive. If the Bermudian economic structure is such that 20% of yr people are kept below the poverty line, and most of those people are black people, then the case for institutionalised racism is, I think, already made. This is not an accident of nature or an unfortunate consequence of history, but the result of ongoing, everyday day decision-making to create just such a structure.

Racism, isn’t just pervasive: like evil, it’s banal.

[SmokingGun on 07.09.06 at 18:47]

selkieman - unfortunately there is also what is called the self-fullfilling role at work. Things start with 70% of the population being black. Then you have to add in the higher percentage of black males who choose to have multiple kids with multiple women and be second rate fathers to those kids. Eventually you will find the tide rising as these kids come of age and perpetuate the cycle by following in their father's foot-steps. Drop outs increase, skills and abilities decrease and eventually the lower income levels start taking on the image of who begot them.

Now that's not all of it in a nut shell mind you. Poverty in Bermuda is being increased accross the board and there are quite a few people who fall below the line for a variety of reasons and skin colour is not at all the issue. The elderly are also in a very vulnerable position today.

[Suzanne on 07.09.06 at 20:35]

SDG - All I was trying to show was that assumptions were being made about what people want, should aim for and inevitably about what "success" is.

Re: the head start of whites - if we are talking about very old Bermuda families - of course white families had a head start. The economy of this country was built on slavery - families amassed land/business, their descendents inherited it. Does this apply to all whites in Bermuda? Of course not. But the benefits of institutionalised racism do - whether you want them to or not. It’s systemic.

With regard to education - see selkieman's comments. I agree 100%.

[selkieman on 07.09.06 at 21:10]

SG > Well, it’s not the first time that I’ve seen the issue of poverty laid at the door of some conflation of aberrant black male sexuality with economic success on LIB, and I doubt it will be the last. Why is it that every time there’s a discussion of race on here, boys on walls, and men with rampant balls are the two biggest issues for many of you? But let’s leave that little conundrum for someone less fastidious.

The absolute number of black people on the island is irrelevant to the numbers game you offer here. Let’s break this down. 20% translates into 13,000 people on the island affected by poverty. This does not occur by chance. How many of them fit the stereotype you offer ? The ones that I know in this position of relative, or not-so-relative poverty are extremely hard-working, maybe on occasion wild people, who do their best to keep a life and families together on the island. Maintaining stable relationships is hard at the best of times. When yr trying to do so against a background of constant economic struggle, they’re even harder to nurture. That their struggles can be reduced to stereotyping of the worst kind does nothing to move any argument forward, but is rather a continued, veiled attempt to re-state the (racist) status quo.

I’ve also got difficulty with yr framing of the cycle of poverty as some kind of black ‘original sin’ unto the nth generation. It strikes me as pessimistic determinism designed to perpetuate existing power structures. It’s racism dressed up as fatalism.

You may disagree with my reading of what you say. Be that as it may. What really interests me is yourself and many others always frame the debate about racism in terms of what black people need to do, should do, and must be. Racism may be a black problem, but it’s a white issue. Why do none of you address this issue from this way round ? The answers to racism don’t lie in changing black behaviour, but white hearts ande minds being open. But that can’t happen when most white people approach the debate with their stereotyping heads up their inflexible arses and their index finger pointing in any direction but them.

I’m not saying any of this is easy. I come from Scotland where we’re ‘too busy being bigots to have any time for racism’ – it’s taken me years and hard thought to grow through that, (at the time), narrow-minded culture’s vice. To paraphrase Doris Lessing’s comment about Fascism, Racism is a foreign country, but one where we should know every valley, stream, mountain, tree and stone. Only then will we truly understand our racism, and make it our own. A few more of the white posters on here could have a go at turning their heads around on this one.

But it's still about economics.

[Craig Morfitt on 07.09.06 at 23:02]

Let me start by saying that I am not a regular visitor to this blog and I am visiting because I heard that racism was being discussed. I should also add that I respect everyone's right to an opinion and to voice it - even if they were skinheads and klan members (as abhorrent as I find their messages to be). I am not posting this message to attack anyone's opinions but merely to add a point of view to the debate.

I found myself nodding in agreement as I read the posts by selkieman and support much of what he has to say.

It seems that people of colour have been trying to explain the nature and impact of racism to those of us who are white for many years. For the most part, the message appears to have fallen on deaf or doubtful ears. I suspect that the reason for some of that is that people tend to view the world through their own experiences. What is the reality for whites is not the reality for blacks or other persons of colour. The challenge for whites is to realise that to be the case. Perhaps because some of us can't see it, we tend to disbelieve it.

I have read comments in this thread that suggest that any black Bermudian would be welcomed as an employee provided they were willing to learn and progress. I'd like to suggest that this is a rather simplistic view of a complex situation. As Suzanne has already suggested, this view ignores the existence and impact of systemic racism. Perhaps this is because it is difficult to comprehend when you haven't personally struggled with institutionalised racism. As a white person myself, I cannot know how it feels but I can try to educate myself and discuss the issue with an open mind.

In the 'white world', many of us have grown up with the knowledge that a willingness to learn and progress will open doors for us. This is not the world that many blacks and people of colour grew up in and currently live in (even if we grew up in the same country). It may be very tempting to point to blacks in the community who have succeeded and say "If they could do it, so could you." However, such an approach may minimise the struggles that the successful individuals may have had to overcome in order to reach their current position - struggles that whites in their position did not have to face. Further, it is clear that not all blacks in Bermuda feel the impact of racism to the same degree as others, for any number of reasons. The success of some should not be taken as an indication that others are just not trying hard enough.

We can be quick to decry those young black males who appear to be thumbing their nose at society - some of whom are referred to as wall-sitters. Before we do so, we need to try to understand what may have driven them to their current status. What messages did they learn through their young lifetime as a black person in Bermuda, especially if they come from the lower socio-economic strata? What messages did they take away from an education system that failed to teach them and didn't come looking for them when they played hooky? How many times should someone keep getting up after being knocked down? Some will persevere and succeed whilst others will give up. If a young person reaches the later teenage years with life learnings that suggest to him that society doesn't care about him, why does it surprise us that he doesn't care for our laws and rules of society? Why is it that some gravitate to gangs - is it that they are the only places where they are afforded a level of respect and recognition? Once a young man reaches that stage, why would he have any faith that an employer would welcome him with open arms if only he would show willingness to learn and progress?

Please don't mistake my comments as suggesting that all those who are unemployed or who have turned to crime would not have done so were it not for institutionalised racism. I believe that some would.

What I am saying is that we may judge people based on assumptions that are valid for one race and not for another.

When trying to understand racism it is helpful to try to understand the notion of white privilege. This doesn't mean that we all came from wealthy families or that we grew up with silver spoons in our mouths. I certainly didn't. However, I have come to accept that simply by being white, I am extended privileges by society that people of colour are not. These are privileges that I don't ask for and that would be difficult to identify on a case by case basis, or to refuse. Amongst those privileges is not having to always wonder whether my race was the reason that something happened to me.

Bermuda is in desperate need of open and honest debate on racism. Blacks should not have to constantly prove to whites that racism exists. We have to come to the table accepting that racism exists and believing the accounts of persons of colour when they tell us how racism has impacted them.

I believe that many persons of colour will say that, as offensive as it might be, the overt in-your-face type of racist conduct is not what grinds them down. Whilst they may fear skinheeads and klansmen on a personal level, they are impacted to a far greater extent by systemic racism that grinds away at them constantly.

In trying to understand Mr. Smith's "Go to hell" comment, we should try to imagine the societal situation that caused him to choose to attend 'white universities' rather than 'black universities' in order to succeed in Bermuda. We should try to imagine how he must feel after many years of trying to educate whites on the existence and impact of racism only to be ignored or told to shut up. In that context, is it any wonder that, when he believed he was being heckled and being told to shut up that he defiantly announced that he was going to have his say and those that didn't like it could 'go to hell'? I personally applaud Mr. Smith for having the fortitude to continue to report his experiences and his view of racism in Bermuda.

I see signs that whites in Bermuda are increasingly willing to listen and are increasingly willing to take an active role in fighting racism.

Frank and open discussion is an important first step.

[Calvin Smith on 07.09.06 at 23:28]

[Calvin Smith emailed me the following comment. I am posting it on his behalf - The Limey]

I was surprised at the speed with which your contributors responded to my first contribution to your BLOG. I was even more surprised at the welcome comments. I am aware that the many invitations to participate were motivated by the realization that I would make a nice victim. Be that as it may, it was heart-warming to know that even your most hard hitting contributors had a genuinely warm side. That discovery was immensely gratifying.

I would like to show my thanks to those who so warmly welcomed me by telling them a story that had a profound effect on my racial attitudes. This incident occurred during my first year at Queens University in Kingston, Ontario.

I had just attended a football match at which the Queens football team beat the University of Toronto for the first time in over twenty years. After the game all the students gathered at the large school auditorium for the traditional after game dance. When I entered the room I saw this very good-looking woman standing beside Gary Schreider, a star on the football team whom I knew. I happened to know most of the football players because I was on the University Boxing team and all the university team members trained together in the school gymnasium. Gary moved away from her and for a brief moment she was alone. Here was my opportunity. I moved over to her with a big grin and said “would you like to dance?” She looked at me with total disdain and responded in a voice that would have chilled a vampire and replied, “I certainly would not”.

That response was so final that I make no attempt to persuade her to change her mind. Clearly she was a racist. As I walked away Gary returned with sodas and they started talking and looking towards me. I now realized that Gary, whom I thought was one of the most liberal guys on Campus, was obviously listening approvingly to her description of what had just occurred. I knew the conversation must have included “and the nigger asked me to dance” and that Gary was in complete agreement with her racist point of view. I was immediately sober and went home to my apartment which had no TV and tried to study while fighting tears.

I saw the young lady on Campus several times after that and pretended not to see her even though we met on sidewalks that were perhaps only three feet wide. One day I saw Henry talking to her. Henry was a black Canadian who starred in football, softball, track, boxing and basketball. He also seemed to have every woman on campus vying for his attention. Naturally I approached Henry and asked him why he was so friendly with that racist ‘bitch’. Henry assured me that I must be mistaken. I replied very annoyed, “Don’t tell me she is not a racist. I am not blind to racism like you black Canadians.” Fortunately Henry laughed and said “take it easy man, I am just saying that I don’t agree with you. Don’t get mad with me”. Since Henry was bigger than I and a far better boxer, I decided not to pursue the matter.

About a year later, I saw the same woman at a party sponsored by the West-Indian club. I watched her, while wondering all the time, why would such a woman be in attendance at a function sponsored by the West-Indian Club. I watched her for awhile and noticed that she danced to the calypso rhythms as well as the women from the West-Indies. I wondered “where did a woman who hates blacks learn to dance the Calypso so well”.

Curiosity got the better of me and I decided to ask her for a dance. I asked and she agreed. We had only been on the floor for thirty seconds when I blurted out, “you don’t remember me do you?” She responded, “Oh yes I do!” Surprised, I asked “How do you know me?” She explained that she met me at the dance held after we beat the University of Toronto and that I had stumbled drunkenly towards her and asked for a dance. She explained that she had just turned down another drunk and when I turned up she was totally annoyed and I received the full brunt of her annoyance. She continued, “as you walked away, I realized that you were upset and probably thought I had refused to dance with you because you were black. I even repeated this to Gary and he tried to assure me that “Calvin was not like that”. I than asked “Why didn’t you explain to me what had happened”. She explained that she thought about it but decided against it. “After all’ she asserted, “What would I have said to you? The reason I did not dance with you was not because you were black but because you were drunk and disgusting”

[noVote on 07.09.06 at 23:57]

I really hope that the youth of today have moved on since your college days, Calvin.

That anybody could be so racially aware in a context such as you describe above (you and your attractive lady-friend) is a sad reflection on society at that time.

I can see why you feel the way you do, but I really believe that this kind of race-based emotion will die with the generations that lived through it.

It has little relevance for today's youth other than through the perpetuation of these emotions by older generations.

So many young people now have access to high quality education irrespective of race that opportunities abound.....and their peers couldn't care less about the colour of each other's skin.

[Carol Shuman on 08.09.06 at 00:46]

Calvin,

What a great story about the dance request. Unfortunately, people infer intentions erroneously a lot, don't they (we)? You are right. Talking directly and head on about issues is the answer.

[stuart J Hayward on 08.09.06 at 05:53]

Cal,
Welcome Pal. Yours is an important and venerable voice.

Craig,
Many thanks. Your post is fresh air. Please visit more often.

Suzanne and Selkieman and Carol,
Keep plugging away.

All,
We're in this together. We've all got hangups. Remember the three-finger rule -- whenever we're pointing at somebody else, there's three of our own fingers pointing back at us.

Limey,
Thanks for the forum. So far, this is one of the most elucidating threads.

[stuart J Hayward on 08.09.06 at 06:25]

noVote writes:

I can see why you feel the way you do, but I really believe that this kind of race-based emotion will die with the generations that lived through it.

Ahhh, noVote, this seems to assume that race prejudice lives solely in the people of those generations. It seems also to reject the institutional aspect of prejudice. I despair if the posts by Cal, Selkieman, Suzanne and Carol aren’t getting through….

It has little relevance for today's youth other than through the perpetuation of these emotions by older generations.

I ask you to try, for a moment, to fathom what message is received by a black youth about the world of money from viewing the most money centered TV station, Bloomberg (just for example). How many people does he/she see that he can identify with, or identify his/her parents with? Are you unwilling/unable to accept that there is powerful relevance, beyond the people of older generations, in the everyday messages, e.g. the race most/least represented in the ranks of business moguls versus prison (please don’t rush into the debate on why those in business/prison are there, just stick to the moment-by-moment, perpetual snapshot that imprints on youthful eyes). Please try...

[weaselguard on 08.09.06 at 07:30]

Mr. Smith

Back in the 90's I had the occasion to speak with members of the UBP Government regarding concerns and challenges in Bermuda. I often received responses like, good idea but Bermudians couldn't handle that, Bermudians can't handle change, Bermudians wouldn't understand. The arrogance and unimaginativeness of this attitude made me very interested in what the PLP Opposition had to offer.

Prior to the 1998 election, I made an appointment to meet with then Opposition Leader Jennifer Smith. As I waited a few feet from her desk, as she discussed something with Dame Lois, a PLP House Member came in and demanded to know what I was doing there. Was it because I was white and infiltrating someone's entrenched mindset? Was it because I was a person who did not look like her?

I've raised this story to illustrate the confusion that some may have when trying to positively address race in Bermuda.

We hear that the olden days, were the good old days, there was a sense of community; we hear that the olden days were the bad old days, strife with racial animosity.

Whites have heard they are not stepping up to the plate, but if they do, may be told don't bother, we'll do it ourselves.

Some black leaders don't appear to want racial harmony in reality, as their raison d'etre would collapse. They have a divide and conquer mentality.

Some people in Bermuda are stuck, black and white. But I think most are willing, ready and able to fight the good fight, even in small but crucial workaday steps, chipping away at old thinking and behavior. We may never know the stories of those who quietly work to improve life for all in Bermuda. Most will remain unsung heroes, who do not deserve the slings and arrows that continue to come their way.

[stuart J Hayward on 08.09.06 at 08:06]

weaselguard writes:
Was it because I was white and infiltrating someone's entrenched mindset? Was it because I was a person who did not look like her?

These questions reflect your assumptions, yes? Would you say you can now see how easy it might be for a black person to assume race is the reason for a comment or action?

I'm not saying that it is right for anyone to automatically assume they're being subject to racial bias. However, your experience and the assumption implied in your questions will, I hope, assist us all to understand more, and condemn less.

[Adam on 08.09.06 at 08:45]

Calvin, appreciate the story, but it is 'Queen's University' not 'Queens University' that you attended.
I wonder if you fully appreciate how you misconstrued the truth and effectively damned that young woman as a racist, and as a result understand the fear that white Bermudians have for acting in anyway that could cause a misunderstanding, often with no means to prove their true feelings.

[Darkside on 08.09.06 at 09:14]

Calvin ... great story ... we need more such stories ... the "oral tradition" has much to teach us all!

[silencedogood on 08.09.06 at 10:03]

Calvin,

Thanks for sharing your story--a great parable.

Seilkie (also applicable to Suzanne),

I can see we are both pointed in the right direction, but are seeing things just a bit differently. Let me try to highlight where I am disagreeing:

Many whites, thru cultural networks have access possibilities not available to others.

I really think you are falling prey to the race vs. class mistake which you referenced by viewing them as inseparable. I think class trumps alot of race issues.

Sure if you are rich you may be a member in certain clubs and run in circles that can help your business, but if you grow up in less privileged circumstances, regardless of colour you won't. Maybe its easier to integrate into those institutions once you have the money, but you have to have the money in the first place. I believe some of the country clubs in bermuda charge $55,000 a year in dues! Even if I had the money, which I don't, there's no way in hell I'd pay that, nor would I feel comfortable in those clubs yet I'm white and assumed to fit like a glove.

In absolute terms, 20% of Bermudians live below the poverty line, Most of those are black. Many of those hold down multiple jobs, which is nothing more than wage-slavery wrapped up in aspirational materialism. That's key as well.

I think you hit two points here. Most of those in poverty are likely to be black because most bermudians are black. The real figure to discuss is the disproportionate rate, if any, of black bermudians who live in poverty relative to other groups.

The second point describes why there might be a disproportionate rate. I agree that materialism is a problem of most poor bermudians. If you don't live within your means you're condemning yourself to become poorer. I think its deeper than that though, our culture has too much emphasis on instant gratification which encompasses not only materialism but multiple babies with different partners and even the decline of civility if you follow that trail long enough.

The ’one model fits all’ argument put forward by many on here as the panacea to black poverty and it’s attendant problems on the island, comes close to the kind of cultural hegemony that lies at the heart of institutionalised racism. There’s more to it than just asking, ‘oh why can’t they just be more like us’ ?

I don't know where this is comming from. I could care less if black bermudians listen to the same music or like to play cricket more than I might when we are at work. I care about their skills and work ethic, i.e. their ability to help the team do its job and make the company a success. I work with a lot of black individuals and the proportion of those who are great to those who aren't is roughly equal to whites as is their advancement in the company.

Education helps this and there is no way around that black, white, etc. The key is to have things like the tradeschool so that people have more options than just accountant/attorney/doctor vs. burger flipper.

re: your comments about living wages and poverty proving institutional racism.

Living wage is, I think, an argument for another economics focused thread.

Poverty is not res ipsa loquitur for institutional racism. To say it is seems to be jumping to conclusions arbitrarily as in Calvin's annecdote.

Again, look at any disproportionate rate and you have to control for personal choices etc. This may be one reason why you and others get so frustrated and feel that you have to "prove" racism exists. With such a low threshold for proof, of course we will not agree. Under your standard a person who has not pursued their education, has walked off jobs, and has fathered or mothered multiple children out of marriage with different partners, i.e. the worst case scenario, would be contributing to your "proof".

I am certainly not arguing that all bermudians in poverty have made those choices, nor am I arguing that racism doesn't exist at all, but to have a meaningful discussion you must reduce the scope of your comments to those who have made a substantial number of positive choices and still had opportunities denied to them.

If the government was serious about studying the issue rather than simply assuming institutional racism is the core problem today it would fund a study to parse out these numbers and ask, without predetermining the answer or their response, 1) what are the total poverty numbers, 2) how does that separate by race, 3) are any groups disproportionately in poverty, and then go in-depth with any disproportionate group looking at education, work history, family size, and a number of other possible causes while taking statements of any accusations of racism made by individuals in the group.

I doubt this will happen because it would be a big long hard look in the mirror for everyone and would have to be done in a credible, neutral manner (i.e. unlike the BIC). But if done properly, this type of study would be extremely powerful. If it showed that race was an issue many whites would have to rethink their views, but if it showed that other factors were in play many of our black leaders would have to put down their resentment. Maybe that's what's needed to heal all this racial mess that is really inhibiting the emotional growth of this country.

[Michael Taylor on 08.09.06 at 10:07]

I find myself agreeing with almost all the comments I read above from all perspectives which is no surprise. Unfortunately something is turning me off my breakfast and it is the heavy use of terms like "You seem to be suggesting", or "Your writing implies", which is often valid but I honestly haven't seen much implication going on in this thread. Perhaps it would be helpful to the insensitive and naive types like myself to explain how someone is "suggesting" ideas further than the actual content of their comments rather than just pointing a finger. Perhaps this would help them prevent themselves from further intentional or unintentional insensitivity in the future.

Why do we need to assume that every contributer who can tell the story from the opposite perspective is insensitive, ignorant naive or just needs an education?
Could the assumptions made by many posters about others be more telling of their own subliminal racism than anything else? Do we ALL need to revisit point #2?

If we truly want both sides to contribute to this very important dialogue we need to be very careful about making unneccessary assumptions and accusations about each other. Not everyone has the time to defend themselves all day and this without a doubt discourages many potential contributers who may just have some new useful piece of information or philosophy which can help us all.

[SmokingGun on 08.09.06 at 11:00]

selkieman - I do not disagree with much of what you write although I think you may try to take a defensive nature more than is necessary. I agree very much with what Craig says.

I was going to respond in greater deatil but then I read silencedogood's post and realized I didn't have too. It pretty much says it all for me.

BTW - Calvin - rest assured the same thing happens to drunken white guys too. Unfortunately for you is you were not drunk enough to have woken up the next day and wondered what the heck you did the night before. ;-)

Maybe as we go forward we will all recognize that we each need to clean up our own act a little bit and at the same time cut each other a little slack before casting any decisions in stone.

[The Right Reverend Uncle Elvis on 08.09.06 at 11:44]

Couple of things.

First, silencedogood, very well put. A study like that, with solid facts, is absolutely neccessary, but, like you said, will probably never happen.

Second, why is it that we have to keep open minds about everything bad that white folks have done in the past... and continue to do... but we're told to leave the wallsitters and "I'm gon' have 10 different babies with 8 different girls, then ignore the kids" guys alone? Are these not problems to be addressed? Are they not symptoms of what is wrong? Don't we have to address these symptoms in order to deal with the problem, AS WELL AS all the bad stuff on the white side?

Third, it's not just poor folks and black folks that have had to take mulitple jobs. Up until very recently I HAD to work two jobs at minimum. There was no question about it. In order to pay for rent, food, etc. we needed that extra paycheque.
Most people I know had to do this in the 90s.

Fourth,
Black problem, white issue, yadda yadda.
No. Just no. It is ALL of our problem. It is just as wrong to lay it all on white folks as it is to say black folks need to shape up.

Fifth, selkie... didn't we have a conversation where you said that generalizing and stereotyping was ok? Good for the goose, good for the gander. It can't be both ways. It's either bad or it's not bad. You can't jump down my throat for calling someone for generalizing and then decry and denounce white people for stereotyping.

The rest of your posts make a lot of sense, but I just find some of it hypocritical, based on previous.. er.. discussions.

Sixth, Craig, great post! Come join us! The water's fine!

Seventh, Mr. Smith, geat story.
As for those that you think are looking for a punching bag... you can take 'em. I know you can. Like I said to Craig: Come on in, the water's fine.

[The Right Reverend Uncle Elvis on 08.09.06 at 11:45]

Smokes, the only difference is that a white guy would accuse her of being a lesbian, not a racist! *grin*

[SmokingGun on 08.09.06 at 11:50]

LOL - you got it UE. ;-)

[Ali on 08.09.06 at 12:13]

Suzanne,
I must admit that I think the term ínstitutionalised racism is abused. I acknowledge that it existed and therefore one could argue that the effects are still being felt but if you ask me if I think it is still being actively promoted or that there is a conspiracy to hold people back I would say no.
In fact I would say that the opposite is true, companies are more prepared than ever to train, educate and pay for employee advancement. Education is the key and it's available, whether one takes advantage of it or not is personal choice. Therefore I suggest that institutionalised racism as an excuse is of minimal validity.

[The Right Reverend Uncle Elvis on 08.09.06 at 13:00]

Ali, I think the word "ACTIVELY" is the most important.

I agree that there are probably MUCH less "Let's not hire him because he's black" or "We don't hire black folks" going on, but there is still a very prevalent subconscious preference to hire and/or promote a) white folks and b) non-Bermudians.

I don't think this is an active thought, but it is obviously happening.

[Carol Shuman on 08.09.06 at 13:47]

Stuart, I have to agree that this thread is one of the most interesting ever. Glad to see the openness and the option to consider and think a little more deeply than all of us usually tend to do as humans.

Calvin, please tell me if I am correct. When I read your story, you appeared to be discussing how we can misconstrue "something else" for racism. (I don't think you were drunk, though, she just had the experience and attributed it to you, also?) However, some readers seemed to construe your story as implying the real reason was racism--I believe they totally missed the point. Am I correct?

This is one heck of a relevant discussion on an island where racial issues top the news constantly between blacks and whites. I find it interesting that in our new home north of Atlanta, the issues seem to focus upon blacks and whites AGAINST Hispanics, particularly those from Mexico. This is a significant change from my experience in Georgia 30 years ago--a different "monster" has erupted. However, that does not imply that when it is less convenient (for whites), they would turn on their brothers and sisters. Of course, Canada (my "other" home) opens another Pandora's box--first the Indian population, still segregated and mistreated, and then the influx of other nationalaties.

It makes me think, though, about how we tend to be simplistic in things. I find the plight of the Portuguese community in Bermuda extremely tragic. Also, most of the writers here are male. I'd suggest you all dress up for a day as a woman (in Bermuda a white or black one!) and see what happens to you. There was a story in an American newspaper about several transvestites who got sex change operations and then asked to go back because they hated the discrimination. If we don't live it, we don't see it, and that goes for race, gender, age, handicap, etc. etc.

Funny, when I graduated from university, my dissertation chairman, who has one heck of a poor memory, introduced me as a former "housewife." (My husband would argue that!. I've always neglected everyone in my life for a narcisstic pursuit of career!) Thus, housewife could be construed as a complement I don't deserve--however, you and I both know he meant--or at least what I THINK he meant: "Look what we did for her!" or "This previously useless woman now has a Ph.D."--Neither was true. When I sat down, wondering how a man I had worked with for six years could think that, another prof whispered to me, "Sometimes you can tell more about the attributor than the one about whom the attribution is being made."

That's for sure!

Also, I have to add to the fellow who lives in the Bahamas. Like you, I consider a place other than where I live "home." However, that home is not the same one I left years ago. Bermuda, like everywhere, changes constantly while much stays the same. The isolation tends to limit openness to the views of others--One thing I hope we all remember is the old marriage counseling addage: "We're always half right and half wrong." I've liked most of the comments here because of the efforts to consider the beliefs and feelings of others.

Good job, Limey, in making this space available. And Calvin, so glad to say hello to you and hear, first person, of your experiences and openness of thought.

[Carol Shuman on 08.09.06 at 13:55]

P.S. "nationalities" not nationalaties!!!!

Also, I'm sorry, but I THINK if LBE questioned your presence it very likely was based on race. Bless her heart, though. One's beliefs we know are predicated on experience. And that is one woman whose experiences are worthy of recognition. Can't say I agree with her that we don't need activists any more (she referred to LeYoni Junos' great works), but I would never negate anything she said and her right to say or think it. Even the bushes comment. Heck, it was the same message sent in the Bible--go forth and multiply!

Later! This is lots more fun than sending out proposals. The book is done! However, don't believe that story is over either!

[Craig Morfitt on 08.09.06 at 17:48]

I would like to point out that research has already been conducted that clearly shows that blacks are disproportiately represented in lower income brackets in Bermuda. People are not imagining this.

I am trying to lay my hands on my copies of the Bermuda Census and the CURE employment survey so that I can present actual figures. Unfortunately, having recently moved house, I can't remember where I put them.

There tends to be a recurring theme of having to constantly prove to some white people that racism, or elements of it, are an issue. As has been said already, it may be that because people cannot see or feel racism themselves, they cannot conceive that it exists around them. They are convinced that it is just a figment of the imagination or some antiquated notion that only exists in the minds of the older generation.

When you have the opportunity to sit and dialogue with persons of colour purely on the topic of racism, the examples of continued systemic racism abound - and not just from the older generation. And this is not just a Bermudian perception. A Chinese American gentleman has visited Bermuda several times and has reported to me that he witnesses acts of racism on a daily basis every time that he is here. Surely nobody is suggesting that all of these people are imagining things.

Black work colleagues may not be comfortable discussing these issues with us, as much as we may believe that we are all friends and get along well together. There may need to be some trust-building before open discussion takes place. However, persons of colour will certainly discuss their experiences when they believe that we are truly interested in hearing what they have to say. When all is said and done, the black people that I discuss race with want to see whites come to the table and tackle racism.

I invite the doubters to consider the possibility that racism can exist around us without us being personally aware of it.

[SmokingGun on 08.09.06 at 18:10]

"When all is said and done, the black people that I discuss race with want to see whites come to the table and tackle racism.

I invite the doubters to consider the possibility that racism can exist around us without us being personally aware of it."

Without getting into any tit-for-tat as to white on black, black on white or whatever race on whatever race I would agree 100% that there is racism of varying degrees existing amongst us. Unfortunately it will probably be with us until the end of time in some compacity or another but as the great majority of people become more and more aware each and every day they are going out of their way to help at least alleviate it. I truly belive that. It is why those that try to hold on to it are being called on it more and more as well.

[silencedogood on 08.09.06 at 19:21]

Craig,

If you find the study I'd love to see it, really.

If it found disproportionate representation I am happy to accept that finding, but that only represents the start of the conversation.

A major component that any serious study on institutional racism needs is the ability to tease out other, non-racial factors which may be the culprit. As I said to Seilkie, if you don't account for the worst case scenario people, who may also be disproportionately represented in any particular group, then you are going to skew the results. For the grad school types, I'm talking a multi-variate regression analysis.

No one is questioning whether racism exists period, but racism and institutional racism are different animals. It is very concrete to say "This person called me a slur." and only the rare individual will make a false claim.

The lesson I take from Calvin's story is that perceptions may not always be reality. You percieve institutional racism to be a proven fact when, by its nature, it is built on perceptions. Because of this a person can honestly believe that racism is playing a role but be mistaken, just as Calvin was about the young lady.

Presicely because it can feel very real to a person when it hasn't played a role I believe claims of its existence require a more thorough look, especially in such a racially charged environment as bermuda.

For example, every time I go to TCD I get dreadful service from a black bermudian. Is that because TCD is racist against whites? Is it because there isn't enough accountability in the civil service or at TCD itself? Is it because they are overworked? Is it because they are underpaid? Is it because I keep getting the same lady who is just a grouch? Is it because the system is disorganized causing people to get frustrated and take it out on the ladies? Is it because TCD has a bad reputation and I'm minimizing the adequate or even good experiences I've had and only focusing on the bad? Is it because I don't have the family connections to get things done as quick as they otherwise might? Is it a combo of all of these things? In that light if I were to say to you "oh well it's obvious that I get bad service there because I'm white" I might really believe it but it's not necessarily so.

I honestly don't understand the reluctance to give this topic a thorough look if one's goal is the truth. If we take an honest look, let the chips fall where they may.

If it really is as big of a problem as you suggest then it would bear out under the closest scrutiny and that scrutiny would only give the evidence of its existence more credibility.

[SmokingGun on 08.09.06 at 20:33]

I've often found that most workplaces are rife with one ism or another.

[ayo johnson on 08.09.06 at 20:44]

Craig:
As you know, CURE has been collecting statistics for six years. The Census has been around much longer. There are plenty of statistics out there for anyone serious about getting to the truth about whether or not institutionalised racial discrimination exists in Bermuda. The very existence of CURE is to address racial inequities.
Why, then, do you think some people still insist institutionalised racism doesn't exist? When mandatory reporting was first instituted, the hope was that we could end the denial, doubt and willful ignorance about racial discrimination in the workplace and begin to address the issue of racial disparities rationally.
I am amazed that many still continue to deny, instead of trying to understand how institutional discrimination works, so we can end it. Surely, we can use our intelligence in more productive ways...?
Frankly, this is why I don't even bother to discuss race anymore - too much neurotic intellectual masturbation and too little honesty from certain quarters.
It is interesting that yours is the first post (in a long while, if ever) which even mentions the existence of CURE and its statistics.
To save you some trouble, Craig, here is some data from CURE's 2002 Annual Workforce Survey:
Survey pool: 55% black, 31% white, 14% mixed and other races.
68% of executive jobs held by whites (who were 31% of the surveyed workforce)
Black employees held 67% of the non-professional jobs.
68% of white employees earned $75,000 or more, reflecting their representation in executive level positions.
68% of black employees earned $25,000 or less. That survey also found that, while black employees were more likely to be dismissed than any other racial group.
The data alone does not prove that institutional discrimination exists. But it does show inequities in the workplace. So CURE follows up the surveys (which is now done by Statistics department)with direct consultations with selected employers. Only by investigating the underlying causes can we address the disparities (as many have already suggested).
Reports of these meetings with the employers are also published and make very interesting and insightful reading.
So, instead of attacking each other, we should read the research that our tax dollars has already paid for and then engage in debate about how to ensure equality of opportunity and end institutional racial discrimination, which is, after all a very complex process, and demands, at the very least, positive action from employers if we are to eliminate it.
Here's an excerpt from one CURE report: "For example, one manager indicated not wanting to draw too large of an applicant pool because people might get disappointed when they did not get the job. But increasing the size and diversity of the applicant pool is core to equality of opportunity."
Note: the manager could just as easily be white as black, and the example illustrates how one (black or white) can innocently and subtly engage in racial discrimination.

ayo

[SmokingGun on 08.09.06 at 20:54]

"It is interesting that yours is the first post (in a long while, if ever) which even mentions the existence of CURE and its statistics."

Ayo - try typing in "CURE statistics" in Limey's search area.

Are you showing a tad "bias judgement" in your statement? ;-)

[Wickering Banker :-) ----: on 08.09.06 at 20:55]

Calvin,

Thanks for writing and being so honest. So many other guys in your camp wouldn't have bothered.

Loved your 'dance' story.

[Craig Morfitt on 08.09.06 at 21:58]

Ayo:

Thanks for the data. For those who are interested in reading more, the complete 2002 CURE Work Force Survey can be located at CURE's website - www.cure.bm - in pdf format.

[Craig Morfitt on 08.09.06 at 22:25]

Additional survey and research information can be accessed at www.statistics.gov.bm

[Phil on 08.09.06 at 22:52]

Last year I asked CURE Executive Officer Myra Virgil what information she had on the existence of institutional racism in Bermuda and whether any investigations had been done to determine which institutions were affected.

Her response can be found here.

As silencedogood points out, and Mr. Smith's example demonstrated, just because a black person suspects he has been discriminated against because of his race does not make it so. That's why further investigation of the root causes of the inequities which unquestionably do exist in Bermuda's workforce is essential. It's also why I was disappointed to hear Ms. Virgil say that proving that economic inequities between the races are a result of institutional racism would be an "exercise in futility".

I do question the extent to which institutional racism exists today. I do not think that's because I am in denial or am being dishonest (although perhaps I'm deluding myself about that too!). That's genuinely how I feel. I'm not necessarily right, of course. Perhaps I can't see the truth because I have not been on the receiving end of such discrimination myself.

However, the difficulty that I have with CURE, and with some of the commenters here, is that they seem to believe that the existence of institutional racism is self-evident. It's not self-evident to me. I'm happy to have my mind changed, but that is going to require some kind of evidence. I don't require proof that would stand up in a courtroom, but I would like to hear more theories about how people think institutional racism is mediated, and more anecdotes from those who think they have experienced it. Just enough to make me think, "Hmmm, I think I can see how institutional racism might be at work here".

Of course, you don't have to prove anything to me. But I don't believe I'm the only one who thinks like this. I think many white people do. If you want to help us understand your point of view (and most of us really, genuinely want to understand), you have to give us a reason to doubt what we currently think is true.

[Michael Taylor on 08.09.06 at 23:44]

Statistics that break Bermuda's population down by race only are virtually meaningless yet regularly pointed to as evidence of institutionalised racism and inequality among other things. For one, meaningful statistics must separate the foreign workforce; recruited to occupy the highest positions and drawn from predominantly white populations having their own racial issues.
CURE either employs professional statisticians who are fully aware of this or they are hiring people unqualified to do the job. Nonetheless, meaningful statistics are not what we witness being trumpeted on the airwaves and newspapers as evidence. This gives the impression (to at least the white population) that the organisation is a propaganda tool rather than a wathchdog; that they seek evidence to prove a conclusion serving a master's agenda rather than seeking to meter the current situation.

For those that like to read further into comments than what is written let me head you off at the pass. I DO NOT SUGGEST IN ANY WAY THAT INEQUALITY, DIRECT RACISM AND/OR INDIRECT RACISM DOES NOT EXIST OR IS NOT A PROBLEM. I KNOW FOR A FACT THAT IT DOES AND INDEED GOES IN MANY DIRECTIONS.

Ayo,
The search bar is on the right.

[ayo Johnson on 09.09.06 at 04:37]

Yes, SG, that was a biased statement - made without making even the slightest attempt to research the facts. I had decided to keep my comments to paraphrasing CURE or direct quotes, and shouldn't have gone in that direction because it's irrelevant, really. I slipped and fell. I'm sorry.

My bias/prejudice/laziness did no harm - and I freely acknowledge it now - and was based on certain experiences.

The employer who, having hired and fired three lazy, incompetent people who happened to be black, and then decides as a result of that experience, that it's not worth his/her time to attempt to hire anymore black people, is causing some harm.

I'm not entirely sure that, given the definition of institutional racial discrimination as articulated by CURE, that demands for "proof" can be satisfied. And I certainly don't have the time or energy to even attempt it. One reason for that is that it's become quite clear to me that people like Craig have a very different reception when they talk about race than when someone like me does. And I'm happy for that - simply because there are today more Craig Morfitts than in years past. Somehow, I don't think he faces the same burden of proof that I do.

Maybe it's time for white folks to debate among themselves, come to a conclusion and report back to the rest of us!!

Some years ago, in New York City, I was rushing to catch a train and for the first time in my life, jumped the turnstile - straight into the arms of a plainclothes policeman, who then arrested me, handcuffed me to a chair and locked me in a room until his shift was over some three hours later. At midnight, I was bundled into a police car and taken to the police station, processed, given a court date and THEN put in a cell where I spent the night.

I decided then and there that I had been punished enough and would plead not guilty in court. The punishment - for jumping the turnstile - would have been a $50 dollar fine or a day cleaning the subway. I dismissed the court appointed lawyer who couldn't/wouldn't understand my point of view, or heed my instructions, and represented myself. I told the judge that the court had to prove I intended to steal transit authourity services, that there could be many reasons why I jumped the turnstile. She agreed and dismissed the charges.
So... it's easy to say "prove it" and get away with a lie, without even having to lie.

Demanding enough personal anecdotes to change the way you think is, to say the least, convenient, Phil. Correct me if I'm wrong, but as the Island's premier blogmaster, with a keen interest in "getting Bermuda talking" you must have heard a lot of anecdotes by now. How much is enough? Or put another way, how many people's stories are you prepared to dismiss before you decide "oh here's a reason to doubt what I think is true"?

You're very fortunate because you can raise the standard of proof until you die... until we all die. (Then none of this would matter anyway - except, of course, for our unfortunate descendants). Talk about an exercise in futility!

If you are saying that you have never come across (or been given) a reason to doubt what you think is true, then you have to understand why many would doubt that you "really, genuinely want to understand")

I once left one country and headed to a certain island because a certain prospective employer had been harrassing me for months to employ me. There were several positions I could choose from, they said. So I figured I'd give it a shot, got on a plane and showed up. As soon as I walked in the door, the first thing the HR person (who had been calling me) said was "there's been a mistake. We don't have any positions available." No hello, no handshake, nothing. This after three months of being headhunted. I knew exactly what the "mistake" was - from an all too familiar look on her face. But I sure as hell am not in a position to "prove" it to you, my friend. Besides I should have known better and given her a Lagos accent on the telephone, (instead of my British one) then maybe I would have at least saved myself the airfare. My fault.

Do I care? No. I'd rather be homeless and playing chess on the streets of Manhattan to eat, than working for a racist employer. I share the story because I know it's easy for you to say there could be so many other reasons why she responded that way - much like my "defence" in the New York courtroom.

Another anecdote - a restaurant manager once asked his fellow expat waiter colleagues, in my presence, whether they knew anyone "back home" who would be willing to fill a vacancy. When I said I could wait tables, he looked me in the eye and in front of everybody said "no, they have to be English".

Of course, stories like this could easily be dismissed as the exception rather than the rule. Go ahead, dismiss. I'm not complaining. And I won't ask you to prove they're the exception rather than the rule - even if I do have more stories to tell.

It's not about individual stories in my view. If you agree that the stats and follow up investigations paint a picture of disparity and inequity, then we should all share in the mission of reversing that disparity... and work with those institutions which are mandated to pursue solutions.

Come to think of it, "racial reconciliation" is probably not even worth pursuing. Because if we ever reconcile our differences, we'd have to find some other ways of amusing ourselves than "proving" each other wrong or denying the experiences of others who may or not look and sound like us. Many of us would die of boredom.