A member of an antiracism charity believes that while much progress has been made towards racial equality in Bermuda since slavery was abolished in 1834, there is still work to be done.

Cordell Riley, who is part of Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda, attended an event that commemorated 189 years since the practice was abolished within the British territories at City Hall and Freedom Square yesterday.

Mr Riley said that racism on the island is more subtle than it was in the 19th and 20th centuries.

He explained: “We don’t have reports of anyone calling a Black person [racial slurs], they do that elsewhere.

“What we see in Bermuda is a little more insidious and many people may not think of it as racism, but that is the art of systemic racism.

“We have made some progress, but the balance of economic power [between Whites and Blacks] has not really shifted.”

Activist Glenn Fubler, Stacey-Lee Williams, the executive director of Curb, and Lisa Reed, executive officer of the Human Rights Commission Bermuda, spoke at yesterday’s event, which was attended by almost 100 people, including Rena Lalgie, the Governor, and Karen Grissette, the United States Consul-General.

Ms Reed believes that the centuries-long enslavement of persons of African and Indigenous descent around the world has led to racial inequalities many still experience today, and said people knowing their heritage can begin to address the issue.

She said: “Deepening our understanding of our heritage and each other will help steady us against the inevitable challenges we may face as an island and elevate us in moments of hope and inspiration.

“Let us today reaffirm our commitment to creating a community where the dignity and respect of all people on Bermuda’s shores are upheld and honoured.”

Musician Robert “Sai” Emery and students from In Motion School of Dance also performed at the event.

Wishing everyone a happy Emancipation Day and Cup Match holiday, Ms Williams said: “We trust the indomitable spirit of Mary Prince will carry you through life’s challenges for the remainder of the year.”