A black governor

I almost choked when I saw the headline in today’s Royal Gazette: “PLP seeking a black governor”.

Reading the article, however, it’s unclear whether the PLP are asking for Baroness Amos or Baroness Scotland because they’re black, or whether they are the preferred candidates because of their knowledge of Bermuda (and they just happen to be black).

Given the difficulties that some members of the PLP have relating to white people, I can understand why they may be more comfortable dealing with a black person at Government House. However, the article gives no indication that the PLP have explicitly asked for the next governor to be black.

That said, it wouldn’t surprise me to learn that they have.

Comments

[ken on 16.11.06 at 13:52]

I knew this one was coming Limey.

Nowhere does the article explicitly say (other than the headline) that the PLP are requesting specifically a black governor. But if they are, so what? We have had white governors all this time who only represent the anglo saxon interest and who have no connection to the people of Bermuda. A black governor, of Caribbean descent, like Baronesses Scotland and Amos, might be able to benefit Bermuda in a much more tangible way.
Instead of wondering if and why the government may or may not have requested this, why not wonder why it is so upsetting to you?

[sandgrownan on 16.11.06 at 14:05]

Ah ken, you're the same! You clearly believe Bermudians can only be of Afro Caribbean descent and not of Anglo Saxon descent. Hmmmm..who first settled Bermuda...let's think about it....ah..so maybe the use of a white governor does represent Bermudians and have a connection with them.

You display the same tone as the PLP. Shame.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 16.11.06 at 14:05]

Ken,

It is upsetting to him because having a black Governor would be upsetting the apple cart. Not that a black Governor would be supportive of a PLP Government anymore than a white Governor but that is the fear.

It is thought that a black Governor would support a move towards independence for Bermuda, even though the British Government has rightly stated that any move toward independence must be shown to be supported by the majority of the population.

Bermuda has a population where the majority are people of colour but the appointment of Governors has never taken this reality into consideration. Many on this blog criticise the PLP because it does not reflect the make up of the Bermuda population should the appointment of Governors not also be reflective of Bermuda's population? Or would that be "changing tradition"?

[SmokingGun on 16.11.06 at 14:08]

Ken -
"We have had white governors all this time who only represent the anglo saxon interest and who have no connection to the people of Bermuda."

Am I missing something or do they still grow sugar cane up at Government House?

"A black governor, of Caribbean descent, like Baronesses Scotland and Amos, might be able to benefit Bermuda in a much more tangible way."

How about just a Governor of carribean decent?

[Tiger Bay on 16.11.06 at 14:30]

"We have had white governors all this time who only represent the anglo saxon interest and who have no connection to the people of Bermuda."

I am a person of Bermuda and I want effective leadership, not racial tokens.

[thereyougo on 16.11.06 at 15:11]

I find it to be an interesting idea. The colour of a person's skin matters a lot in Bermuda when filling jobs, just ask any black Bermudian. Having a black woman as governor would mean no longer having a white man as governor. This is huge.

Every black child would see blacks in all the political positions for the first time- this alone is a fabulous idea.

Why did you almost choke Limey?

[Coopsta on 16.11.06 at 15:48]

Hmm... is PLP racist?

[novote on 16.11.06 at 16:11]

We are all aware of Alex Scott's past rhetoric, which has occasionally had racial undertones...or arguably in some cases tone a little stronger.

However, the Royal Gazette has here sensationalised a story without any direct quote that properly substantiates its headline.

The closest that Alex Scott gets is: "It would certainly be something I would be sympathetic to.”

And that was in response to a question about the prospect of a black female governor.

He then qualified this with: “We should not just think in terms of male. This is a time for a fresh approach to the office of the Governor of Bermuda.”

This article is not NEWS, but rather provocative and divisive speculation.

I could just about forgive it, if it wear clearly an editorial commentary.

That's not how it's presented though, as it's splashed all over the front page of the NEWSpaper.

Give us the facts and let us read whatever we will between the lines.

[Linda on 16.11.06 at 16:12]

Ken, you say all this time we have had only white governors who represent the anglo saxon interest and have no connection to the people of Bermuda. Which people of Bermuda? We may seem an endangered species here, but there are still many white born Bermudians whose families go back many generations on this island, and who ARE connected to the U.K. If the PLP is so hell bent on getting away from all that the British represent, then why don't they hold a referendum on independance and get the matter over with. If the vote is in favour for independance, Doc Brown can move up to government house. In the meantime, we are still British, so in the words of Col. Burch, if you don't like the appointed governors.....GET OVER IT!

[Student on 16.11.06 at 16:20]

"We have had white governors all this time who only represent the anglo saxon interest and who have no connection to the people of Bermuda. A black governor, of Caribbean descent, like Baronesses Scotland and Amos, might be able to benefit Bermuda in a much more tangible way. "
-Ken

How exactly do white governors "have no connection to the people of Bermuda"? I wouldn't be so audacious to assume that you're suggesting that because the proposed Baronness is Black, she can relate better, bas only the *real* 'people of Bermuda' are Black. Perhaps then because she comes from the Caribbean? In which case, what makes a Caribbean raised person more suitable than an English raised one?
I'm not sure I follow your logic. How does the fact that someone is black mean that s/he might be able to "benefit Bermuda in a much more tangible way"? I don't care if the Governor is Black, White or Purple, or if s/he comes from the Caribbean or the U.K. As long as the job is performed admirably, I couldn't care less. So if the Baronness is the most suitable given her experience (and she well may be) then great! But it is not, as you say, a 'so what' question if the Government is requesting a Black Governor *because* s/he is black. I cringe that the Govt might ask for a black Governor over a better qualified white one - why do you think this could possibly be in Bermuda's best interests, Ken?

[Andy on 16.11.06 at 16:38]

This question was bound to come up.

Let me first say that:

1) An Anglo-Saxon (white) governor has never in the histrory of the island affected in any way shape or form the Govermental ruling. The Governor acts on behalf of the Queen and does his job. Just because the Governor is white is neither here no there and is just another race card being pulled by our current Goverment.

2) Reading www.politics.bm this morning and quoting Mr. Dunleavey, "Does the PLP think that Baroness Amos or Scotland would more favourably entertain their [PLP] anti-UK games due to their race? I don't. I think they, or any other non-white diplomat or politician, know that they represent the Government of the United Kingdom, and would execute those duties no better or worse than the current and previous occupiers of Government House."

So if a Black Governor was to be appointed and he/she will be able to better relate to the PLP is like saying that we should paint all of Bermuda's rooves black becuase that colour can better relate to the people; it makes no sense.

[money for nothin on 16.11.06 at 16:39]

"We have had white governors all this time who only represent the anglo saxon interest and who have no connection to the people of Bermuda"

Is this true? Or are you assuming the white governor did not represent black interests because he is white. I can't say I know enough about what the Governor does or has done to form an opinion on this. Can you give examples of how the (current or past) white governor has neglected to represent black Bermudians (other than him not being black)?

If the PLP did say they wanted a black governor I would be disapointed because what all of Bermuda needs is the person most capable of doing the job regardless of color.

[Martin on 16.11.06 at 17:00]

Ken...

"A black governor, of Caribbean descent, like Baronesses Scotland and Amos, might be able to benefit Bermuda in a much more tangible way".

Not sure what this means Ken. I mean - you may well be right, but given it is a UK appointment by H M Queen...would a black Governor have a different role to play?

Not taking the "p"...just genuinly interested in your point of view.

[MrT on 16.11.06 at 17:00]

I don't think Limey is upset. Maybe just slightly dismayed that the colour of someone's skin could be a selection criterion for a position as important to Bermuda as governor.

[J Starling on 16.11.06 at 17:10]

The newspaper has certainly oversensationalised the article with that headline. Very tabloid like and unnecessarily alarmist - in that it portrays the PLP is a party of Black Chauvinism, only seeking to change all things once white to black, as if such a change is anything more than cosmetic. There will be some in our community who are still afflicted by that colonialist curse of a mentality that has internalised a sense of inferiority to whom the appointment of a black governor might dispel. This group I feel is a distinct minority however, and it would be better to discuss the role of a Governor in our constitution and the very question of their legitimacy. The Governor is not elected, and is not accountable to the people, and so has no legitimacy in my eyes, no more than the Queen has the legitimacy to claim the title of Head of State, whether such a post be MOSTLY ceremonial or not. [The Soveriegn actually has a considerable amount of power, but generally exercises it in such a way as to hide it.] We as Bermudians should have the right to elect our highest leader, and hold him/her accountable via the right of recall. Likewise, as long as we are part of Britian, we should have representation in a federal parliament and the right to elect the Head of State. The Queen may be a nice lady, but she has no claim to anyhting else in my eyes, and until she is elected, she has no legitimacy to such a pompous title. Forget the issue of a black or white govenor, the main issue is the need for a democracy, whether we stay as part of Britian or not. What we need is a democratic, federal and secular republic of all British peoples.

[ian on 16.11.06 at 17:39]

What's wrong with the current governor (aside from the fact he won't meet Doc Brown on the Doc's home turf)? Is his term up? Forgive my ignorance, but unless he is due to replaced in the very near future, why is this issue being raised at all? Why also should race have anything to do with it? Why not just ask for a governor who is familiar with Bermuda and interested in the issues near and dear to Bermudians? Of course, colour is always an issue with the PLP, yet it is the whites (see Ken's post) who take the "blame" when we question why race is even an issue in the original commentary in the first place!

[ian on 16.11.06 at 17:43]

In the world of the PLP, as you all should know by now, Black = Bermudian and White = Ex-pat/Foreigner/Oppressor/Plantation Owner. There is no recognition from the PLP (and many in the black populace) that Bermuda was colonised primarily by WHITES and that there were no indigenous peoples on the island of any colour!

[The Limey on 16.11.06 at 17:58]

Guilden

It is upsetting to him because having a black Governor would be upsetting the apple cart.

Actually, I'd be quite happy with a black Governor if he or she was the most qualified person for the job and carried out that role without fear or favour. I have more faith in the Governor to do that than I do in the members of the PLP.

Bermuda has a population where the majority are people of colour but the appointment of Governors has never taken this reality into consideration. Many on this blog criticise the PLP because it does not reflect the make up of the Bermuda population should the appointment of Governors not also be reflective of Bermuda's population? Or would that be "changing tradition"?

Since the Governor's job is to represent Britain, not Bermuda, you'd be better off arguing that his appointment should reflect the demographics in the UK.

thereyougo

Every black child would see blacks in all the political positions for the first time- this alone is a fabulous idea.

I think that's a ghastly idea. I think it would be far healthier for all the children in this country to see all positions (political and business) occupied by a mix of people that closely mirrors the demographics of the country. I favour equal opportunity for all above preferential treatment for members of any race.

Why did you almost choke Limey?

Because I believe that the colour of someone's skin is irrelevant to their ability to perform a job.

[ace on 16.11.06 at 18:06]

I think we should have a Governor of say...Pakistanian decent. Then they would truley represent the demographic makeup of Britain and wouldn't be white.

Everyone would be happy...no?

[Bdacurler on 16.11.06 at 18:16]

Guilden,

As soon as I saw the headline today I knew there would be some chat here. I can't speak for all white people, but my take on it is that "upsetting the apple cart" has nothing to do with it.

I work side by side with black people. I keep my money at a bank with black tellers whose CEO is black. The island where I live has a ruling party that is 100% black and the opposition (the "white party") is probably 70% black. I belong to a community organization that is both black and white. My land lord is not black but if he waere I would fork over a huge chunk of change to him as I do now.

The problem is that the white people I know are truly not racist and do believe that skin colour does not matter. If the next governor were black we would say, "who cares?".

The problem is if the headline is correct and the PLP is seeking a black governor BECAUSE he/she is black, then that is where I will pull the race card. If we all want to be treated equally then why does skin colour matter? I would be equally annoyed if government was specifically seeking a white or asian or mixed race person.

Ending race problems in Bermuda does not mean we should turn the island 100% black. Ending race problems means decisions will be made regardless of someone's skin colour.

[ken on 16.11.06 at 18:35]

What is more telling is that all of this analysis is taking place, and the PLP has not said that they want a black leader at all. The Royal Gazette used their tabloidish skills, which they are mastering by the way, to create a headline, that was not supported by the article. And still all of you have ranted and raved because you believe they want a black Governor.
You ask what benefits a black governor will have? The same if not more than a white governor. I did not meant to imply that a black governor will be a better governor, but i do think that a black governor can bring a different element to the position. There is no guarantee that they will support the PLP or UBP or NLP or even GLP agenda. But it would be interesting to see if they can attach themselves to the black sector of society that historically has felt detached from the Governor. Would that really be so bad?

What is so sad is that many posters on here really feel their stranglehold on politics and how things used to be is being weakened, and they cannot handle it.

If you were really honest with yourselves, you would admit that it really is all about the fact that most of you do not want a black governor because you don't have the capacity to pay him or her the same respect that you would pay his or her predecessors, in the same manner that you have never shown the PLP government any respect even remotely comparable to the respect shown to the UBP administrations.

[Freddie on 16.11.06 at 18:40]

I normally find the Gazette to be an excellent paper, particularly given the size of our population. But this "non-news" item was pure rubbish, concocted to fill space.

And is it likely that either of the ladies mentioned would want to be relegated to be nonentities in a geographic and political backwater?

Who cares what colour the governor is so long has he/she has diplomatic & social skills, which is about all the job requires.

[SmokingGun on 16.11.06 at 18:45]

Ditto on everything you said Limey.

[Full Fullish on 16.11.06 at 19:39]

Eh, I personally don't care, the govenor could be pink for all it matters.

I would be nice to just request a fair an honest govenor instead of one of a particular hue, but as I said before, black, white, pink, purple as long as they do a good job, that's what is really important....

[frank on 16.11.06 at 19:55]

If Wayne Furbert's appointment to Opposition Leader, allegedly because he is black, is so objectionable to the PLP masses, then what is the appointment of a governor on the basis that he/she be black? How can you vilify one and celebrate the other?

[Copper on 16.11.06 at 20:25]

I highly doubt the PLP would welcome a black Governor.

Ever try to use the race card on somebody of the same suit. You want to talk about getting taken to the wood shed? Yikes.

[BermudaGeek on 16.11.06 at 20:37]

Everyone who has critized "Ken" should be herby admonished. What's wrong with a Black Governor? A black governor should have a chance! The MAJORITY of Bermudians would approve, and so will cabinet. We must then judge the Governor by their ability to govern. If he or she cannot, they should be fired.
Im disturbed to see a majrity of visitors to this site condemn such an idea. Let's face it, Democracy is all about the MAJORITY.. and the majority in THIS country is black. Logic tells me, that makes Bermuda, a "black" country. If anyone here has a problem with having a black governor, then I would encourage you to turn yourself in, to the nearest Police station for a public floggin'... or seek Jesus. That's All. Great Forum Limey.

[jewels on 16.11.06 at 21:24]

I don't think limey almost choked at the thought of having a Black Governor bc of their skin color, but that rather that in 2006 that would be so readily said and requested publicly. Can anyone on here honestly tell me that if the UBP had the same headline with seeking another white Governor that this country would not be up in arms and shouting out racist! so why is it different bc it the plp and they r supposedly seeking a "Black" governor. As for the Bermuda Geek comment about democracy is majority and the majority of the island is Black is completely irrelevant. Are u suggesting bc of a skin color you are all going agree on something and therefore vote in a way that leaves the majority wanting something..that basically saying the majority will always vote in a way or feel simlarly on issues based on skin color. give people some credit for having their own minds and different opinions. Majority ruling eqaulling democracy has nothing at all to do with race.

[Casual Observor on 16.11.06 at 21:25]

Personally, I am hesitant to jump at the headline partially because I think that the newspaper might be guilty of 'stirring' things up with two consecutive days of sensational headlines.

However, even if it were true that this sort of request was being made... what is the big deal!? Is it so wrong for the idea to be at least put out there!? In my opinion, a black governor (particularly one of Caribbean descent)would potentially be much more representive of the average Bermudian. Now granted, the Governor is the representative of the Queen, this could perhaps go a long way towards redefining the role of the Governor as more than simply a ceremonial figure.

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 16.11.06 at 21:29]

Bdacurler,

I am a little confused with your post. Is there a particular reason for lecturing me? Please show me where I have used race to support any of my arguments. In the above I was simply pointing out that many on this blog say that the political parties show be reflective of the racial make up of the Island and I feel that the same argument could be applied to the Governor. Highlighting the racial make up of Bermuda is completely different that using race to support an argument.

Please review as many of my post as you want, I very much doubt if you will find one where I have used race to support any of my agruments, it is not something that I prefer to do.

Also please show me where I have stated that Bermuda should be turned 100% black. Hey if I said that than I would telling my own mother she has to leave Bermuda.

I think you are clearly barking up the wrong tree by directing your response toward me, maybe you need to determine to whom your post should be directed.

[novote on 16.11.06 at 21:38]

"And is it likely that either of the ladies mentioned would want to be relegated to be nonentities in a geographic and political backwater?"

This is so obvious that the Royal Gazette has just relegated itself from newspaper to comic strip.

If members of the PLP have truly been courting these individual - directly or otherwise - whatever their motives, then they truly fail to understand Bermuda's role in the world.

Utter delusions of grandeur!

[Mother on 16.11.06 at 21:45]

Governors are not role models. Parents are.

Let's focus on making Bermuda's families cohesive again - that's more important than the constant political infighting of the PLP etc.

[MrT on 16.11.06 at 21:57]

BermudaGeek: Bermuda is a "black country"?
That's interesting.
So does that make Canada, the USA and UK "white" countries?
And if so, does that mean those countries *should* be biased towards white people?

ken: being honest with myself I have a real problem with respecting ignoramuses who judge any attitude by the color of people's skin. I don't like your attitude - does that make me white?

[novote on 16.11.06 at 22:12]

"What is more telling is that all of this analysis is taking place, and the PLP has not said that they want a black leader at all. The Royal Gazette used their tabloidish skills, which they are mastering by the way, to create a headline, that was not supported by the article. And still all of you have ranted and raved because you believe they want a black Governor."

Ken - Since I qualify under the generalisation of "all" I suggest that you go back and read my post. I believe that what I had to say agrees with your first two sentences, even though your third is utter rubbish.

"You ask what benefits a black governor will have? The same if not more than a white governor. I did not meant to imply that a black governor will be a better governor, but i do think that a black governor can bring a different element to the position. There is no guarantee that they will support the PLP or UBP or NLP or even GLP agenda. But it would be interesting to see if they can attach themselves to the black sector of society that historically has felt detached from the Governor. Would that really be so bad?"

Ken - I would expect a black governor to behave much the same way as a white governor. Such people are here to represent the Queen as Head of State not some party political agenda. Why do you think that somebody from outside Bermuda that hasn't been infected by this small Islands putrid racial political and social environment would have any greater affinity for blacks or whites? In Britain race hardly ever touches the political radar, and when it does it's generally viewed as being the domain of a minority of radicals rather than a mainstream item on the agenda. I'm sure that most Governors turn up here reflecting on the racism as a social ill, and are certainly not going to support it's perpetuation by aligning visibly with either side of the divide.

"What is so sad is that many posters on here really feel their stranglehold on politics and how things used to be is being weakened, and they cannot handle it."

No. Certainly not true in my case. 80% of my time in Bermuda has been under a PLP government. I don't have any political stranglehold (never did; probably never will; can't vote - "novote"), but I do see this country slipping unecessarily into an increasingly more divided community. I doubt very much that I want my children to grow up in a place like this, as there is a terrible danger that exposed to Bermuda's racial environment that their values and attitudes would be warped irrepairably. This is sad, because whilst this is not my homeland, it is theirs...and it would be a terrible loss for them no to experience the many positive facets of this country.

"If you were really honest with yourselves, you would admit that it really is all about the fact that most of you do not want a black governor because you don't have the capacity to pay him or her the same respect that you would pay his or her predecessors, in the same manner that you have never shown the PLP government any respect even remotely comparable to the respect shown to the UBP administrations."

There is hardly a politician in Bermuda that warrants much respect. Too many are bumbling bafoons. There are, however, one or two that have occasionally achieved results or displayed character worthy of respect. Neither of the two that I would put at the top of my list are from the UBP, and I'd never vote (not that I'm allowed to!) for a PLP candidate in an election whilst the party leadership continues to pursue a racist agenda. As for my ability to have respect for a black governor.......well, if I were anywhere else in the world I doubt that I'd even register the colour of his/her skin, so respect would be earnt on another basis. Unfortunately, in Bermuda it would be impossible not to notice, because of all the noise and emotion that would follow. That's just a sad reflection on this country.

[Alex Jones on 16.11.06 at 22:21]

I also almost choked - if the headline were entirely truthful and the PLP was seeking a governor on the merit of being black then that would be a pretty clear example of abject racism.

As for the claim that people wouldn't feel disenfranchised with a black governor, I doubt in the long run they would feel any better than they do now with a black Premier, cabinet, and the bulk of the legislature. If one's attitude is that they are limited because of who holds power then there is always another bogeyman to blame.

[Amin Swan on 16.11.06 at 23:32]

How about a Bermudian Govenor, White or Black -who cares. Can this be so hard? Who has the last say anyway, the Govenor or the Overseas Territories Minister based in London?

[Lost in Flatts on 17.11.06 at 05:58]

Terrible reporting by the RG - I think we can all agree on that.

To all those 'it makes sense because Bermuda is a black country to have completely black leadership' let me pose a question to you. Do you believe that whites should just realise they no longer have a majority of the populace, stop hoping that their views and interests will be supported and just move to some white country? Or do you think, perhaps, they should maybe pursue an agressive population surge, and try to get the majority back (if this sounds crazy to anyone, read up on some 70's PLP campaigning). And if they do get the majority back, would you be happy with a completely white government? Would you like to see whites only in leadership, because they're the majority? Now that we're past this whole, whites have the power because of historical injustices, if whites get the power back, would you support it as the majority?

No. I didn't think so.

So please, try the other shoes on a for a bit, and walk around for a few. My family has been in Bermuda for 4 generations. We've been involved in all aspects of the community, from football pitches to the Senate and most places between. We've gone from nothing (bunch o gardeners) to a decent life all on hard work. We've devoted our evenings and weekends to the community. We've built our lives in Bermuda. It is our home. We care passionately about the country, because it is part of what defines us. What you and the current administration are pushing, however, is that we don't define a part of the country.

What will it take? A 100% black government with a black governor? Black GM's of all Bermuda branches of business? A black police chief and a black chief justice? A Bermuda with the racial makeup of other Carribean islands?

Because you know what? Bermuda ISN'T a Carribean island. And it's great that we're a country of immigrants with varying backgrounds, but for people to be proponents that only one of these is 'Bermudian', well that, in my book, is just sad. We should embrace our heritage - all of it - and get on with running what should be, the very best country on Earth.

[Raptors on 17.11.06 at 08:48]

Have to admit, my first thought at reading “PLP Seeking a Black Governor” was, “Why would either of these two talented, dynamic women want to leave London to live and work in Bermuda?” Baroness Amos is 52, and Baroness Scotland is 50—prime of their lives! Bermuda would be lucky to get one of them. But I don’t think their being black would mean the PLP would necessarily get what they want from them, or necessarily offer some magical enhanced and shared level of communication only because of shared skin colour.

My second thought was about the quality of the article. When I read the title, I expected to see a source quoted—if not a name, at least a vague description—of just who is seeking a black governor. There isn’t one.

Alex Scott is quoted as having called for a “fresh approach” in the appointment and saying “We should not just think in terms of male.” And he would be “sympathetic to” the appointment of a black governor. I don’t have any problem with that. It’s like the image of God being firmly established as a large white man with a beard up in the sky. Shake it up. Maybe until someone says, “you know, you don’t have to send us an older white man every single time,” nobody over there thinks enough about it.

What on earth Scott’s comment means about Bermuda being unlikely to get “a local Governor until it went independent,” is beyond me.

“The Royal Gazette understands….” that the current Governor is likely leaving soon and that talks are underway about his replacement for “somebody known to Bermuda.” That is their first, opening paragraph, so why don’t they title the article around that: "Talks Underway for New Governor"?

“The Royal Gazette understands….” PLP governments would like B. Amos or B. Scotland. The Royal Gazette "believes the appointment of a black female could help take some of the tension out of the relationship between G.H. and the…PLP….” The R.G. also “understands it is the practice of the UK Gov. to consult with the territories…” Look, either say it or don't, or come up with some kind of attribution, but separate your opinion from the facts.

Maybe the question Limey should have asked is “WHO is responsible for this sloppy article, or is it the sloppy title, or both?” Matthew Taylor, the Editor? There is a reason the article was unclear to The Limey—it’s so poorly written, inaccurately titled, and irresponsibly placed.

[newbie on 17.11.06 at 09:10]

"If you were really honest with yourselves, you would admit that it really is all about the fact that most of you do not want a black governor because you don't have the capacity to pay him or her the same respect that you would pay his or her predecessors, in the same manner that you have never shown the PLP government any respect even remotely comparable to the respect shown to the UBP administrations."

Would this be similar to the respect recently paid to our present Governor by Premier Ewart Brown???

[Turtle on 17.11.06 at 09:53]

Lost in Flatts

"Do you believe that whites should just realise they no longer have a majority of the populace . . ." YES I DO.

"stop hoping that their views and interests will be supported . . ." I would say rather "stop expecting that their views and interests will be supported".

"and just move to some white country? . . ." Well that's what people usually do when they're unhappy where they are - whether it's for economic, political or other reasons.

[Uncle Elvis on 17.11.06 at 11:30]

"This is so obvious that the Royal Gazette has just relegated itself from newspaper to comic strip."

I speak from experience here.
The Royal Gazette will never be a comic strip.
They don't pay for comic strips.

"...Bermuda is a black country."

Awesome. Thanks for that tidbit of ignorance. Way to work towards equality.

"If you were really honest with yourselves, you would admit that it really is all about the fact that most of you do not want a black governor because you don't have the capacity to pay him or her the same respect that you would pay his or her predecessors, in the same manner that you have never shown the PLP government any respect even remotely comparable to the respect shown to the UBP administrations."

First off, BULLSHIT.
You are putting words into our mouths and projecting your own prejudiced image of white people on us. This is complete and utter garbage.
As has been said MANY times before on this thread, it wasn't the idea of a Black Governor, it was the idea of hiring someone simply because they are black.
As someone said, how is this different from the UBP putting Mr. Furbert in as leader? Wouldn't HE relate better to the majority of the population? But his election to the post is a racist ploy in may of you guys eyes. Don't you see the hypocricy in this? You defend this idea when it's done by your guys, but when it's the other guys, it's bad.

Ken, I am offended by your statement here and would suggest you actually meet some of us before you say things like this.
As someone who truly does want equality for all Bermudians, it angers and saddens me to hear this sort of talk in this day and age.
I don't know how to get through to you.
I wish I did.

All,

I would put down big money on the first time the new Black Governor did something Lt. Col. Burch or Dr. Brown didn't like, that the "House Negro" scandal will come about again.
BIG money.

[Boogie on 17.11.06 at 12:17]

First of all, we all really need to review our Political Science textbooks. It's been a decade or three, but if I remember correctly, the Head of State (as it has evolved in the UK) is the embodiment and protector of the people's rights. The United Kingdom is a hereditary monarchy as the Head of State with a progressive but unwritten constitution with an elected prime minister.

The United States is a republic in which the two positions, Head of State and Head of Government, are combined.

The Head of State is the last resort to protect our rights - wether it's a hereditary monarch or an elected president.

The overwhelming majority of members of the British Commonwealth are independent countries with the British monarch as Head of State - Canada, Australia, Jamaica, Ghana etc. The British monarch appoints the governor-general but instead of that person being from the UK - who by definition would protect the interests of Britiain and ALL its subjects - the person is from that particular country.

The PLP have manufactured this controversy over the governor's role. Stepping in to appoint Chief Justice Ground is not cause for independence. The difficulty over getting that Bermudian missionary's body out of Uganda was not cause for Independence (Alex Scott did sieze that oppurtunity). In fact, the last time a governor got involved in Bermuda affairs was in 1995 when Gov. Waddington blocked Sir John Swan's attempt to delay the Independence referendum for several months.

That day, August 15, 1995, saw a 90mph hurricane brush us. Knowing he would lose, Sir John was rumoured to have wanted to delay the vote by several months - presumably to buy time to get PLP voters to break Freddie Wade's boycott.

Gov. Waddington did as the Head of State is supposed to do and direct the Head of Government to hold the referendum the next day. In other words, Waddington's actions worked in the PLP's favour! (Mr. Wade's main argument against the 1995 Independence referendum was that a yes vote would seal UBP power forever - with it's unfair boundaries based on a 1616 survey, yearly registration which disenfranchised voters etc.)

To those that criticised the Gazette, did we know on Wednesday that Alex Scott had approached the UK government about this? No. Is it newsworthy? Yes.

Lets be clear - The world didn't crumble on November 10, 1998 and it won't crumble the day after Bermuda becomes independent.

Other than the Waddington incident, the other best example of a Governor's role is that of Paul Scoon in Grenada in 1983. The elected head of government, Maurice Bishop was executed by hardline Stalinists at the behest of Cuba. Governor General Scoon contacted other independent English speaking Caribbean countries for help and they requested US help. Scoon acted in defence of all Grenadians because the situation (which had been deteriorating for more than a decade) had become untenable.

It is spurious for our debate about the governor to not include his or her constitutional role.

[SmokingGun on 17.11.06 at 12:33]

Lost in Flatts - well put. Thank you.

As far as I'm concerned our current Political Leaders made one huge gaff. A colossol political mis-step of blunderous proportion. Had they simply said Bermuda would welcome a "female" governor and, oh what a coincidence these two ladies happen to have some connection to Bermuda and the Carribean, then people would probably unite accross the board in the proposal.

After all wouldn't we be better off having a go at having a woman fill the role after such a long string of men? A woman Governor would likely have more empathy for the women, children and elderly in Bermuda which in my most humble opinion is far more important than what race any of us might be.

Missed a good one there boys.

[real deal on 17.11.06 at 13:00]

The PLP want a black Governor, because they think that he or she would be corrupt like them, and they would have an even more free hand in their corrupt doings. I hope their is a black governor, who then might be able to do more to report the thieves of the PLP to the British government.

[Ali on 17.11.06 at 14:18]

I would welcome a black governor for a number of reasons and the biggest one is that it would remove one of the stumbling blocks that our government has with being British (ie allegiance to a white power). The fact is that Britain is one of the most culturally and racially diverse nations on earth, it's just that our politicians still live in the 60's on that issue. I expect that either Baroness if appointed would politely decline EB's request to meet elsewhere and he would then realise that it's all to do with office and not colour.

[Ben Greening on 17.11.06 at 14:56]

At my school, Saltus, recent Bermudian history was not taught very extensively. I don't know whether this has changed or what the situation is like in government schools, but I reckon its a shame. For instance, we were never taught that up until 1968 the Governor was the head of Government on the Island (nor that we had to wait until that same year for universal suffrage to be introduced). The Governor at the time of this massive change, Lord Martonmere, could propose and veto laws and could call a state of emergency when he felt like it, limiting broadcasting, imposing a curfew and calling in British troops to "quell" situations which he thought might threaten the way things were. With our history, its not surprising that there would be a desire for a black governor amongst a large segment of the population. In my opinion, a black governor would go some, very small, way towards healing the wounds of the past. As for the fears of those who think a black governor would push for independence more strongly than a white one, study of Foreign Office, Cabinet Office and Government House documents reveal that Britain wanted Bermuda to go independent at the end of the 1960s and through the 1970s. As such, we were viewed as a burden. The fact that the Island hasn't gone independent says more about the ultra-conservative Bermudian mindset (both black and white) than it does about the strategic, economic or political intentions of the United Kingdom.

[silencedogood on 17.11.06 at 17:08]

I didn't read the article to say that the government was advocating a black governor simply because they are black, merely that it would be a nice addition. But there were some pretty wretched assumptions in the article and the following comments:

1) only members of a race can represent any interests of that race

2) only blacks have caribbean/bermudian roots

3) equality doesn't exist unless a black person is governor

4) people can only relate to others of the same race

It's no wonder the island has the racial problems it does when the colour of a person's skin matters more than their abilities or people can't relate to those with different skin tones as human beings. pathetic.

[jake on 17.11.06 at 17:48]

Until you can demonstrate to me that the British Government does not discriminate in the appointments of its Governors, I cannot see the harm in asking for a black one.

The comment about the 'best person for the job' is crap. There are many people suitable for the job. Any of them have done, and will do, for the purposes of our country. We have always had white men, let's have a woman, let's have a person from outside the Anglo Saxon history. Britain is made up of so many cultures now - what is the problem with some of them cycling through the job too?

The role is what we have signed up for - in many ways a small price to pay for what the people want. We should be skillful in managing the relationship in the best interests of Bermuda and Bermudians (black and white for those who wonder what I mean).

Sir David Gibbons and his mates spun circles around them. Dr. Brown should do the same.

All in the interest of Bermuda!

[Git on 17.11.06 at 17:50]

Irresponsible reporting by the RG, but I think we've come to expect that in doses.

Ken and others are right that there was nothing of real substance in the article to support the sensationalist headline, but given the posture and rhetoric of successive PLP administrations, is it that much of a stretch to think that it might be a credible notion? With a new Premier who coined the phrase ‘plantation question’?

I’m reminded of few years back when our company was summoned to an interview at CURE. As an employer with (at face value) a disproportionate number of ex-pat employees of European descent, it was openly suggested that we should seek to ‘improve’ our data by diversifying recruitment to somewhere like... say... for instance… the Caribbean. I made it clearly known that race had never been, and never would be, a criterion for recruitment.

… and to those who feel that Bermuda is a ‘black’ country, please see Lost in Flatts’ excellent post above. Well done.

[youngin' on 18.11.06 at 01:36]

As a young Bermudian reading what has been posted on this site, the last couple of days has really opened my eyes. Maybe it is because I am from a 'new' generation where ones skin colour doesnt matter as much as it once did, but to see what posters have said really shows to me the HUGE racial divide that is alive and strong in our country today. Something has to happen to stop us from seeing things in 'black and white' why cant we all just get along and let bygones be bygones? What Bermuda needs is a leader who really wants to unite Bermuda, stop trying to help those who look like him/her, and have the country's best interest at heart. Politics has never been something I have thought of pursuing, but if things keep going like this (what seems to be massive racial tension) I might have to give it my best shot and try to bring our precious island into the 'new' world...
...if that fails, ill just have to wait for another 30 years until all the hate has simply left the island for good.
Ciao

[Bill Cook on 18.11.06 at 07:28]

Non whites make up app 6% of the British population, but make up 3.5% of the civil service, and are mostly concentrated in industrial towns etc plus probably over a million illegals.

If one is concerned at racial parity in Bermuda considering that whites make up possibly 30% it would make sense that an effort to balance that figure rather than concentrate on increasing it even further would make sense ?

The colour or sex of the Governor is pretty irrelevant but cant see a female wearing that ridiculous hat but who knows.

[Uncle Elvis on 18.11.06 at 14:27]

...cant see a female wearing that ridiculous hat but who knows."

That gives me the best idea ever.

Sybil Barrington for Governor!
Covers all the bases:
- Black
- Bermudian
- Male
- Female
- Would look FABULOUS in that hat!

Now HERE is an idea whose day has come!

[Shark on 18.11.06 at 14:27]

youngin

my thoughts exactley

[Amin Swan on 18.11.06 at 19:36]

Uncle elvis - Can you imagine...too funny

[Guilden M. Gilbert, Jr. on 18.11.06 at 20:00]

Smokes,

"As far as I'm concerned our current Political Leaders made one huge gaff. A colossol political mis-step of blunderous proportion. Had they simply said Bermuda would welcome a "female" governor and, oh what a coincidence these two ladies happen to have some connection to Bermuda and the Carribean, then people would probably unite accross the board in the proposal."

Would you mind showing us where our Political Leaders have stated that they want a black Governor? The article does not provide any evidence that this state has been made by our Political Leaders or by anyone else. The heading for this article was nothing more than the Royal Gazette's sensationalised reporting.

[silencedogood on 18.11.06 at 23:52]

That wasn't a waterspout late Saturday night, it was Silencedogood's drink shooting out of his nose due to laughter. Good one Elvis!

[SmokingGun on 19.11.06 at 15:40]

Guilden - come on. Argument for argument's sake?

Aside from the sensationalist headline, from the RG Article:

"And The Royal Gazette understands there have been explicit discussions with Government House about recruiting either Baroness Amos or Baroness Scotland – highflying ministers in Tony Blair’s Labour Government.
The source said the pair had been suggested by former Premier Alex Scott and may even have been put forward by his predecessor Jennifer Smith.
The source said: “From what I understand serious consideration was given to both from the UK end. It’s been discussed both here within Government and within the UK.”

The Royal Gazette contacted Mr. Scott and asked him about the prospect of a black female Governor.
He said: “It would certainly be something I would be sympathetic to.”
He said there was a need to shift from the usual choice of diplomats and politicians and pick individuals the community knew and could identify with.
“We should not just think in terms of male. This is a time for a fresh approach to the office of the Governor of Bermuda.”
But he said Bermuda was unlikely to get a local Governor until it went independent.
Asked about his successor Ewart Brown’s attempt to alternate weekly meetings with the Governor between the Premier’s office and Government House he said: “I would have thought that it was a non-starter.”
However the appointment of a black female could help take some of the tension out of the relationship between Government House and the pro-independence Progressive Labour Party which Dr. Brown spoke of when he made his bid to change meeting arrangements."

So here we have three separate PLP Premiers names being tied in with the proposal along with the comment that the UK is discussing it. We have the descriptive use of "black" being discussed. Am I missing something?

As I said if Alex Scott had stuck with: “We should not just think in terms of male. This is a time for a fresh approach to the office of the Governor of Bermuda.”, then people would have been very positive accross the board. However suspicion would have crept back in if the only two that were proposed happened to have been black.

[Lost in Flatts on 20.11.06 at 05:36]

Turtle,

"Lost in Flatts

"Do you believe that whites should just realise they no longer have a majority of the populace . . ." YES I DO.

"stop hoping that their views and interests will be supported . . ." I would say rather "stop expecting that their views and interests will be supported".

"and just move to some white country? . . ." Well that's what people usually do when they're unhappy where they are - whether it's for economic, political or other reasons."

I had to reread this several times to see if I'd missed some sarcasm point, or maybe some semblance of a redeeming tone. I cannot, and therefore just have to say that you have just reduced your credibility to the point where it would probably be best to make like your name-sake and withdraw into your shell.

The final comment, about leaving Bermuda because I'm unhappy at being racially discrimated against (see your respone to the line before) well I'm sure that's how Milosevic, Stalin and Hitler felt too. And for those that can't leave well...