Dear Sir,

Eva Hodgson’s letters to the Editor taught me a great amount about the scourge of racism. More importantly she motivated me to understand racism more deeply and oppose it. Hence, I feel compelled to write a letter of tribute.

Dr Hodgson began teaching me about systemic racism and white privilege in the 1980s when I attended Bermuda College. I have fond memories of debating Dr Hodgson’s views with fellow students as well as faculty members such as Walton Brown and James Smith.

This inspired me to read books on Bermuda history: Dr. Hodgson’s and others. At the time I thought I was a student of economics. In retrospect I majored in humanity and the importance of activism.

When I returned from university in 1992, I immediately began to involve myself in antiracism causes led or supported by Dr Hodgson. I attended National Association for Reconciliation events and was a member of the committee tasked with implementing the recommendations of Carol Swain to dismantle systemic racism in Bermuda workplaces.

Nearly 30 years later, thanks to the inspiration of Dr Hodgson, I continue my learning and anti-discrimination remains an important part of my being and my work.

I have no doubt that I am one of many white Bermudians of my generation who benefited greatly from Dr Hodgson’s epic courage and resilience.

She enabled many like me to see what our privilege shields us from. We owe her a debt of gratitude.

At the protest on Sunday, Dr Hodgson will be among those in the forefront of my mind.

DOUGLAS SOARES

Southampton