Bermuda must move towards a society that embraces diversity. This was one of the issues discussed last Thursday at the third public forum hosted by the Human Rights Commission that focused on racial, ethnic and cultural tolerances.

A panel of four speakers gave their views on this topic at the Cathedral Hall in Hamilton in front of an audience of approximately 50 people. President of the group, Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda (CURB), Lynn Winfield said open and honest dialogue would lead to a decrease in all forms of discrimination and prejudice.

She told those gathered: “It is far wiser to foster a climate that embraces tolerance, diversity and acceptance amongst people than to develop a response under pressure following a racial incident.”

She said it was important for people to confront deeply held misinformation about themselves and others. “We need people to tell their stories of discrimination in order to build empathy and understanding and we need people to learn the skills needed to build bridges,” she added.

Community activist Shernette Caines spoke of the importance of non-Bermudians getting involved in the local community. “I think, in this segregated community in which we now live, we as a people have to create a community of diverse people. If you are living in a country you should be involved. “If you want to live and to make Bermuda a better place, you ought to live and take part in the community.”

She also urged parents to teach their children to be proud of their heritage. “Parents should expose their children to diversity,” she said. “Children need to learn that the world does not revolve around black people or white people.”