A new campaign that advocates for “the right to flourish and live meaningful lives” has been launched by a community action group.

Bermuda Is Love said #FreedomToFlourish encapsulated the idea that individuals should have the freedom and opportunities to develop their full potential, pursue their dreams, and live fulfilling and meaningful lives.

Aaron Crichlow, one of the group’s founders, said: “At its core, the right to flourish embodies the belief that every human possesses inherent worth and dignity and possesses the capacity to contribute meaningfully to the world around them.

“The right to flourish recognises that basic needs are human rights and, importantly, are a prerequisite to equal opportunity and flourishing, but goes further to encompass the pursuit and realisation of one’s aspirations.”

He added: “It is impossible for an individual to develop their full potential if their basic needs are unmet.

“Once a person’s basic needs are met, they have the opportunity to live the life that they want to live.

“They are able to pursue the dreams and aspirations they want to pursue. They are able to create art, discover science and explore what it means to be human.”

Mr Crichlow said Bermuda Is Love believes that “once an individual is no longer worried about securing their basic needs, and are no longer stuck in survival mode, they are able to fully participate in society, and help contribute more effectively to bettering society”.

“They are able to more easily show empathy, kindness, respect and love to others,” he added.

“Thus, the right to flourish is not a passive entitlement bestowed upon individuals by society, it also entails a reciprocal obligation to actively contribute to the collective flourishing of the entire community.

“It encompasses a grounding in society where each and every person recognises their own humanity and connection to others, including the duty to care for and love one another.

“This means that each individual has a duty to enrich their own lives and also contribute to the flourishing of others, creating a ripple effect of positive change that reverberates throughout society.”

He added: “Every Bermudian has the right to live the life they want to live.

“Let us come together as a community to advocate for the right to flourish and live meaningful lives.”