"There were certain individuals like Kingsley Tweed who wanted to get up on the soapbox and speak to the people, and he was very competent at speaking.

´We fed him information -- he didn't know where it was coming from -- and by his speeches and other people's speeches, the movement gained momentum."

-Marva Philips, The Royal Gazette, June 16, 1999

One of the documents from which Mr. Tweed apparently read was the following:

AN ANALYSIS OF BERMUDA'S SOCIAL PROBLEMS

The Limited Franchise

Segregation and

Discrimination

AN ANALYSIS OF BERMUDA'S SOCIAL PROBLEMS

FOREWORD

This study or discussion paper was produced during the 1950's by a small group of concerned young men and women sometimes called the A.B.A. for the Association of Bermuda Affairs. It is based on the findings of this group, which met for many months privately to analysis the status quo in Bermuda, and its effects in the lives of Bermudians, particularly the "Coloured" people, the Portuguese and women (of all races.)

Of special concern were the lack of equal opportunity for self-improvement and development, the lack of training for and access to higher positions of employment in Government and private enterprise, and the subsequent denial of the right to full, meaningful and active participation in the affairs of government and the community.

The pamphlet was printed in 1953, but because of the political climate and the feared possibility of reprisals, it was decided to withhold the names of the authors of the Analysis of Bermuda's Social Problems.

It is now the year 2000, the millennium, fifty years since the Human Rights Declaration of the United Nations. Times have changed and the people of Bermuda have come a long way.

The pamphlet was circulated anonymously for almost fifty years, read and studied by many, quoted at length at public meetings during the fight for universal franchise, and broadcast over loud speakers from cars during the 1959 theatre boycott. It is still being used as a reference for the early 1950's by writers, politicians and students, doctoral candidates among them. A modest work, it seems to have justified its existence despite, or possibly, because of its mysterious origins and anonymity.

The names of those who pursued the project to its completion and its publication are listed below. We who have survived to see some of our hopes and dreams realized, pay special tribute to those good friends who have passed on. They helped to plant the seeds of change. Some of those on the list will be recognized as founders of the party which is not the government, the Progressive Labour Party. They heard the call and answered with faith, foresight and fortitude.

*Mr. Wilfred Allen - Father of the Progressive Labour Party

*Dr. Yvonne Blackett - Educator

Mr. Alphanso Blackett - Civil Servant

*Mr. David Critchley - Civil Servant

Mr. Edward deJean, MBE - Educator

Mrs. Marion deJean - Educator

Miss Carol Hill, MBE - Educator

Mrs. Georgine Hill, MBE - Educator

*Mr. Hilton G. Hill, MBE - Businessman

*Mr. Leon Paris - Civil Servant

Mr. Pogson - Civil Servant

*Miss Eva Robinson - Educator

*Mr. Walter Robinson - Attorney/First Leader of the PLP

* Asterisks appear beside the names of those who have passed

CHAPTER 1

THE ROOT OF THE TROUBLE (Race Prejudice and Discrimination; Discrimination and the Tourist)

CHAPTER 2

THE LIMITED FRANCHISE (Voting on the Basis of Colour; The Irresponsible and the Undesirable; Partial or Gradual Extension of the Franchise)

CHAPTER 3

OTHER ARGUMENTS USED TO DIVIDE THE PEOPLE (Intermarriage; High Standard of Living; "Foreigners" and Agitators)

CHAPTER 4

A PROGRAMME FOR SOLVING THE REAL PROBLEMS (The Franchise; Segregation and Discrimination; Discrimination against Women; Social and Economic Security; High Prices and Low Wages and Salaries; Government Funds; Facilities for Bermudians; Films, Magazines, and Comics; Trade Union and Civil Rights Legislation; Illegitimacy, Prostitution, Criminality, and Delinquency; CALL TO ALL BERMUDIANS)

….recognition of the inherent dignity and of the equal and inalienable rights of all members of the human family is the foundation of freedom, justice and peace throughout the world….

…. the will of the people shall be the basis of the authority of government; this will shall be expressed in periodic and genuine elections which shall be universal and equal and suffrage shall be held by secret vote or by equivalent free voting procedures…

(from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights adopted by the United Nations General Assembly at its 183 meeting, held in Paris on 10 December, 1948)

Introduction

Bermuda is a small group of islands set in the Atlantic Ocean. This is a fact. It is also a fact that Bermuda enjoys lovely weather, has beautiful beaches, and is surrounded by water of many colours which has to be seen to be believed.

But just as two sides can be found to every argument, Bermuda also has two sides. There is the Bermuda which has just been described, but there is also the Bermuda where wages and salaries never quite catch up with the high prices; where much is spent for the comfort of the tourist, but not very much for Bermudians; where young people wander or ride aimlessly with nowhere in particular to go and nothing in particular to do; and there is also the Bermuda of tension between Negro and white Bermudian, distrust, and misunderstanding.

Why all of this in the midst of such beauty? Why insecurity and hate on this island which has been so blessed by nature?

Many seem to feel that it has something to do with the colour of a person's skin; some say that people are living beyond their means; others blame it on the introduction of motor cars; and some just accept the situation because they believe that is the way the world is supposed to be.

Sometimes, however, we come closer to the truth. It might be the price of groceries that does it. Then again, it might be the cost of building materials or the profit statement of one of the local businesses that brings the truth to our lips.

And what is the truth? Why is there such a contrast between the way Bermuda looks to the tourists and the way it is to those of us who live here?

Not a very difficult question really. Not because some Bermudians are black and others are white; not because of extravagance; not motor cars; and certainly not because Bermuda has to be the way it is.

No, the answer is to be found in the actions of a small group of Bermudians who seem to have set as their aim in life the making of as much money as they possibly can. Right and wrong or what happens to Bermuda or to Bermudians does not really matter to these people. The important questions to them are: will it pay? Is it profitable? How much can I make and how quickly? Every other question is given second place. Take in as much as possible and pay out as littler as possible is the standard.

We have given this small group of men labels. Thus, some of us refer to them as "Front Street". This is a fairly good title, except that one or two other street names should be added to complete the picture. Others of us call them the "Forty Thieves". There might be argument as to the exact number, but there is no question but that they are thieves - not legally, perhaps, but only because they decide what the laws and policies of the island shall be. We all know who they are. Their names appear time and time again as the owners of or directors of the large businesses, as member of the House of Assembly and of Government Boards, as the persons who, in short, have complete control of the life and affairs of Bermuda.

But, in spite of the truth contained in the names "Front Street" and the "Forty Thieves", the men we are referring to are perhaps best described as "vested interests". This title links them with those persons in other countries who also place wealth and profit before the welfare of the people, and it will serve to remind us that perhaps the problem facing Bermuda is not so different after all.

We may have joked about "Front Street" and the "Forty Thieves" for so long that it is hard to accept this analysis - or perhaps we are afraid to. Our tendency to look elsewhere for the cause of our problems suggests that this might be true. But whenever we do this, we move into the land of half-truth fiction, and frustration.

But, even if this be so, what can be done about it? Again, the answer is not as difficult as it might seem. Bermuda's vested interests will no longer hold undisputed sway as soon as the two main props which help them to maintain their unchallenged positions are removed.

And what are these props? They are: the limited franchise; and discrimination and race prejudice. This is the theme and contention of this pamphlet: it is important that all who are concerned about Bermuda, and who want all Bermudians to live a secure, decent, and happy life, read and give serious and honest consideration to what is contained in the pages which follow.

CHAPTER 1

The Root of the Trouble

AT THE time this is being printed, the following state of affairs exists in Bermuda:

(a) most Bermudians are living a hand-to-mouth existence because: the cost of the basic necessities of life is extremely high, and wages and salaries have not kept pace with the cost of living; there is a lack of any real safeguards for, or organizations of, employees, and the little trade union legislation that exists is restrictive and biased in favour of the employer; women are discriminated against in employment and they receive less pay than men even when they do the same work; rents are out of all proportion to salaries and wages; no government social security exists so that that illness, accident, old age, and maternity are the cause of economic hardship to most families; Portuguese are brought into Bermuda under contracts which make them nothing more than indentured labour;

(b) there is a shortage of houses and many houses are overcrowded and in slum or near slum condition;

(c) schools are inadequate and most are overcrowded;

(d) prisons, homes for old people, day nurseries, provisions for the mentally ill and retarded, homes for delinquent children, and welfare work generally is completely inadequate and staffed for the most part with poorly paid persons who have had little or no training;

(e) parks, playgrounds, community and cultural centres, and other facilities for community recreation are practically non-existent;

(f) there is very little of a positive nature to counteract the trash which is imported in the form of cheap literature and films whose main themes are sex, violence, and war;

(g) there is little opportunity for or encouragement given to Bermudians to develop a cultural life that is truly Bermudian and not imported;

(h) many key positions are filled by outsiders and the appointment of Bermudians to such positions rarely seems to be considered;

(i) the standard used by the Government in spending public funds is open to question. Thus, ten thousand pounds are voted without argument for the purchase of an elevator and for other schemes which can in no way be considered public, yet projects designed to meet educational; recreational, welfare, and cultural needs of Bermudians do not appear to be recognized as valid and necessary areas towards which Government funds should be directed;

(j) much concern is expressed in Government circles about the subject of overpopulation, and many suggest birth control and other such measures as a solution. Little mention is made, however, of the fact that, although the increase in population between 1939-1950 was 6589, "…3769 persons now resident in Bermuda (have) been in the Colony for less than five years." (Census of Bermuda 9th October, 1950.)

(k) and last, and most important and significant because it explains why the foregoing conditions exist, Bermuda is profit centred rather than people centred with a few persons obtaining the immense wealth from the island and giving back very little in return.

Other countries have long since begun to attack and solve such problems as the above. Bermuda has not even started. Nor can this be explained by saying (as many among us do) that Bermudians are unconcerned or contended. Most Bermudians are very concerned and they are far from contented. Why, then, is nothing being done about these problems?

Nothing is being done and Bermuda is backward in the area of social and economic progress because the basic requirement for such progress is missing, namely, the determined and united effort of the people as expressed through a franchise that is open to all. Thus, the island is divided on the basis of colour and the franchise is restricted to those who own property.

Bermudians must recognize, therefore, that it is to the interest of a very small minority, the vested interests, that these conditions continue, and so let us begin by considering one of the main problems which prevent the determined and united effort of the people from coming into being. Let us face the facts about

RACE PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION

Books have been written about the Negro (although they are not to be found in the bookstores and libraries of Bermuda) which are based on the facts as obtained from sociological, psychological, and biological research. They do not rely on the fancies, generalizations, and distortions which are used to "prove" that the Negro is "different" and inferior.

No attempt will be made here to detail the findings of this research. The true facts can be obtained by any person who is sincerely interested in finding the truth.

Any statement is false which suggests that the Negro is born mentally, physically, or in any other way inferior. The truth is that, given the opportunity and favourable circumstances, the Negro can rise to the same heights as can the white person who is given opportunity and favourable circumstances. It is also true that, denied opportunity and favourable circumstances, the Negro can sink to the same depths as can the white person who is denied opportunity and favourable circumstances.

Truth of these statements becomes quite obvious when one considers the amazing achievements and advances of the Negro in the face of unfavourable circumstances and a denial of opportunity.

But, do not many Bermudians believe some or all of the false things that have been said about the Negro? Of course they do.

How could they believe anything else when they have been told and taught nothing else since birth?

How could they believe anything else when the radio is closed to any person who attempts to reveal the truth?

How could they believe anything else when the library contains no book which portrays the Negro in a true light or which disproves the falsehoods which have been spread about him?

How could they believe anything else when the majority of films which come to Bermuda picture the Negro as happy-go-lucky, dim-witted, a coward and ne'er-do-well?

How could they believe anything else when the history books present the Negro as savage and ignorant and overlook his rich cultural background and inspiring history of struggle and accomplishment?

How could they believe anything else when the vested interests in Bermuda do all in their power to keep up the barrier of segregation and discrimination on all levels of community life so that real contact and exchange of opinion between Negro and white Bermudian is practically non-existent?

In the light of all this, is it small wonder that many white Bermudians can make the Negro the subject of their jokes and can think of him as "spade", "nigger", and "darkie" without realizing the danger of such a degrading approach to the Negro or the harm caused to the struggle for progress and enlightenment by such an approach?

But why do such ways of thinking continue? And why is it that the tension between Negro and white Bermudian has increased in the last ten years? It is because the real problems facing Bermudians have increased; because more and more people, Negro and white, are suffering from the real problems; and because the frustration of the people is increasing.

Unfortunately, however, in seeking the causes of their problems and frustrations, many people think in terms of Negro and White. Only when Bermudians direct their anger and frustration against the real problems and the persons who are really standing in the way of progress, then, and only then, will the false ways of thinking about the Negro and the tension between Negro and white Bermudian decrease. It is urgent, therefore, that discrimination on the basis of colour be recognized for what it really is.

And what is it? Basically, it is a weapon used since the days of slavery by the vested interests and the enemies of social and economic change to divide the people and to hide the real issues. Thus, when Bermudians complain about high costs, they are told that the explanation is to be found in the high wages demanded by labour, and, of course, the reference is to Negro labour. Immediately, high costs becomes a question of colour and attention is diverted from the fact that the vested interests and not the labourers, Negro or white, are the ones who own thousands upon thousands of pounds of real estate and who are profiting from the high costs which they set in their businesses.

Once this fact about discrimination is understood and accepted, then can progress really be made. Then will it be possible to judge the Negro and white Bermudian, not on the basis of colour, but on the basis of the kind of man or woman he or she is, and on the only real basis on which a person should be judged - is he for the people and their welfare, or is he against the people and their welfare?

We must begin to think, therefore, in terms of Man and not in terms of a man's colour. Thus, Man, black or white, can rise to the heights of a Frederick Douglas, and Man can also sink to the depths of a Hitler.

And it is significant that the German people allowed Hitler to seize power when they were confused and blinded as to the real causes of their problems. They came to believe that the Jew, the Communist, and Lost Territory were the real problems to be overcome and which accounted for their frustrations. As a result, they became sidetracked from Man's age-old struggle so to organize society as to make it possible to eliminate from the earth such problems as hunger and famine, insecurity and discrimination, hatred and war, plague and flood, and all that debases Man and makes him less than the spiritual and physical giant that he should be.

These are problems which have nothing to do with a person's colour as are the real problems facing Bermudians. They can only be solved by a united attack against vested interest and all that seeks to divide and confuse people.

And now, let us turn to another area on which we often allow ourselves to become divided and confused, namely,

DISCRIMINATION AND THE TOURIST

Some persons argue that if discrimination and segregation were eliminated in Bermuda it would harm the tourist trade. "We must not move ahead of public opinion in the United States," they say.

Since the tourist trade is so important to the economy of the Island, this type of argument confuses and divides many and prevents them from coming to grips with the real problems facing Bermuda. It is, therefore, an argument which must be exposed, not only because it divides, but also because it is false.

Why is it false? It is false because it suggests that discrimination and segregation are the main attractions which bring tourists to Bermuda when actually they come because of the natural beauty and charm of the Island and its nearness to the United States. Quite obviously, the tourist with strong feelings against Negroes would not come to Bermuda in the first place.

Of course, the average tourist is interested in a holiday and not in social and economic reform. For this reason, he probably accepts Bermuda as he finds it (although many are unaware that discrimination and segregation exist). He would, however, just as easily accept Bermuda if segregation and discrimination were absent. He would accept it because Negro and white in the Eastern States of the United States (where live the majority of tourists who come to Bermuda) go to school together, sit next to each other in movies, play together, and work together. As a result, the tourist is more inclined to be shocked by the state of affairs in Bermuda rather than pleased by it; and he must certainly wonder just what is meant by the "British Justice" and "Fair Play" he has heard so much about.

No, we need not worry about Bermuda moving ahead of public opinion in the United States: if anything, Bermuda is behind it. The only public opinion that the elimination of discrimination and segregation would be moving ahead of would be that of the vested interests, and their opinion seldom represents anything more than their own.

Naturally, tourists do visit Bermuda who would be outraged by the suggestion that discrimination and segregation be done away with. Such persons no doubt seek out their own kind - the bigots and vested interests native to Bermuda. The parties of this unholy union then probably bewail the fact that worldwide attention has been given of late to such concepts as progress, security, democracy, freedom, liberty and peace. The "good old days" were much more to their liking since then they were able to bleed the people undisturbed.

But to base the policy of the Island on the prejudices of such a minority is as senseless as it is to continue to allow Bermuda to be divided, exploited, and governed by a minority of Bermudians - a minority whose standard is that whatever is profitable for them is good enough for Bermuda.

Let us suppose, however, that a majority of the tourists presently coming to Bermuda agreed with the state of affairs that now exists. It would still be no reason for keeping Bermuda the way it is. The obvious challenge would be to attract to Bermuda the type of tourist who is not prejudiced. Canada and the United States could supply more than enough of such tourists.

It must be quite apparent that the tourist will be pleased with this stay in Bermuda if he finds it to be a place of beauty, a place where he can relax, a place where the people are friendly and courteous, and a place where he receives value for the money he spends. This is the kind of place that Bermuda can really become if Bermudians act with unity and attack the real problems. Such unity can only come when we rid ourselves of those evils which divide such as discrimination and segregation and also the limited franchise which is discussed in the next chapter.

CHAPTER 2

The Limited Franchise

WHY is the franchise in Bermuda limited to property owners? Many white Bermudians think that the restricted franchise is aimed at preventing a situation whereby a majority of Negroes is returned to the House of Assembly: many Negro Bermudians think that the system of franchise aims solely at denying them a vote. What all of us seem to forget is that Bermuda has always had a restricted franchise - even when all of the inhabitants were white. But again it is a case of becoming blinded by colour and failing to see the real reason for conditions in Bermuda.

And what is the real reason? Basically, the aim is to make certain that the government in Bermuda will always be by and for the minority, that is, the property owner, the vested interest, and the most conservative. This ensures that the working man, as opposed to the manager or employer, will be denied a real voice in the affairs of the land.

If, therefore, colour enters into the question of the franchise, it can only be on the basis that Negroes form the majority of the working people. This fact is used by the vested interest to spread confusion and fear with the result that prejudices are inflamed and the real problems and the vested interests ignored.

For example, it is claimed that if all adults in Bermuda could vote we would be faced with the problem of people

VOTING ON THE BASIS OF COLOUR

This argument suggests that if we had universal franchise in Bermuda it would result in a House of Assembly which legislated, not on the basis of the welfare of Bermuda, but rather on the basis of colour.

Many white Bermudians who have nothing to gain from the continuance of the present state of affairs allow themselves to be misled by this argument. A moment's honest and serious thought, however, will reveal that at the present time the vote is largely based on a candidate's colour. As a result, persons are elected to the House for little other reason than that they happen to have a black or white skin. Candidates are elected; therefore, without having to commit themselves concerning their attitude toward the real problems facing Bermuda. This makes it very easy for them to represent their own personal interests and ambitions and nothing more.

This state will continue as long as the franchise is limited. It will continue because as long as it is limited people will go on thinking that the struggle in Bermuda is between Negro and white rather than between the forces of vested interest and the forces of progress. The complete extension of the franchise, however, will force candidates for the House to state clearly what they stand for. They will have to depend on some other platform than the present one of colour: vague comments about pledging themselves to work in the interests of Bermuda, will no longer be accepted as adequate, or sufficient an insurance to the people of a candidate's qualifications or good intentions. They will be forced to take a definite stand and to state their position as it relates to the real problems and evils in Bermuda. Then, if they are returned to the House they will take their seats with the knowledge that they represent people who are no longer falsely divided on the basis of colour, but who are united around a common desire and determination that the real problems and evils in Bermuda be eliminated.

Some persons argue, however, that if everyone could vote it would mean giving the franchise to

THE IRRESPONSIBLE AND THE UNDESIRABLE

Some say that, in principle, they agree that all should have the right to vote, but, in practice, it would mean giving the vote to the irresponsible and the undesirable. It is quite true that universal suffrage makes the franchise available to the desirable and the undesirable, the responsible and the irresponsible. In spite of this, however, it presents no real problem or threat or reason for the franchise remaining limited. It would certainly be a most biased, irresponsible, and undesirable individual who would suggest that the majority of Bermudians are either irresponsible or undesirable. This being so, and since in a democracy representatives are elected by majority vote, it many fairly be asked how possession of the vote by the few who might be considered undesirable or irresponsible could possibly work against the best interests of Bermuda or Bermudians. Persons who are usually considered by a community to be undesirable or irresponsible are as much a problem, and no more, without the vote as they would be with it. As a matter of fact, such persons would probably not even exercise their right to vote since the very act of voting indicates the presence and acceptance of responsibility.

Apart from the above, surely it is strange thinking which claims that a vote based on the ownership of land will result in representatives of the people who will act desirably and with responsibility. Actually, with the franchise limited as it is in Bermuda, there would appear to be a greater chance that the very legislators will be more inclined to act with irresponsibility since they are responsible to no one but themselves and an electorate which is divided and confused and which forms a minority of the population. They do, it is true, represent a point of view, but it is a very narrow and limited one, and what may well be in the interests of the few might at the same time cause great damage to Bermuda, as illustrated by the presence of the evils and abuses which have already been listed.

History time and again provides examples whereby government by and for the vested interest has resulted in catastrophe. There is no reason for the belief that Bermuda is so different that it can forever defy the lessons of history and always remain unhurt and unharmed. The fact that it has reached this point without suffering from a major calamity is not a tribute to the legislators of the Island or the social and political conditions.

It is, among other factors, a tribute to the physical beauty of Bermuda.

This beauty can be destroyed by continuing to allow a system of franchise which permits the Island to be governed only by those who are concerned that the status quo remain as it is so that they can continue their blind, undesirable, and irresponsible pursuit of personal profit.

And now let us turn our attention to the argument used in support of a

PARTIAL OR GRADUAL EXTENSION OF THE FRANCHISE

It is sometimes suggested by persons who admit the unjust and undemocratic system of franchise which exists in Bermuda that it should be gradually or partially extended. Thus, some recommend that the vote should be extended to all those who pay a certain rental: others advise that the standard should be the number of years of education a person has had. To be in favour of such a position is to overlook one important fact: the present system of franchise is to be opposed because it is limited, and even with changes such as have been suggested it would still remain limited.

The franchise is limited or it is not limited; it is democratic or it is not democratic. And if it is limited and therefore undemocratic, it is to be opposed no matter in what particular fashion it may be limited or undemocratic.

Apart from the unjust and undemocratic aspects of the limited franchise, one would surely question the desirability of having representatives in the House of Assembly who are unable to convince, logically and scientifically, the majority of Bermudians of the correctness of their positions. If they must rely instead, as do many of the present so-called representatives, on the limited franchise and, as a result, a confused and divided electorate, then such persons have no right or qualification to be members of a body which is supposed to act on behalf of and in the best interests of the majority of the people.

It can be seen, therefore, that to suggest a partial or gradual extension of the franchise is merely to replace one injustice and undemocratic practice which acts against the best interests of the people with another injustice and another undemocratic practice which also acts against the best interest of the people. For this reason, nothing except a complete extension of the franchise can be considered. To consider anything else is to play into the hands of the vested interest whose position of privilege and power is maintained as a result of the limited, unjust, and undemocratic franchise just as much as it is by discrimination and segregation on the basis of colour. Indeed, the two problems cannot be separated.

We have been dealing with the main arguments heard in Bermuda against the complete extension of the franchise and the elimination of discrimination, but in the next chapter we will deal with several others which are often used.

CHAPTER 3

Other Arguments Used to Divide the People

MANY are the ways in which the vested interests attempt to divide the people, and a number of them have already been considered. Although it would require many pages to deal with them all, the following arguments should be commented upon so they can be recognized for what they really are, namely, falsehoods and attempts to divide the people and prevent them from attacking the real problems.

INTERMARRIAGE

It is often suggested that the Negro wants discrimination and segregation ended so that he can intermarry with the white members of the community. This argument is vicious, false, and betrays an extremely prejudiced and racist attitude.

It is vicious because it seeks to divide people by appealing to their emotions and taking advantage of all the lies that have been spread about the Negro. It is racist because it suggests by implication that marriage to a white person offers more and is more to be desired than does marriage to a Negro, and that the Negro would, therefore, stand to gain by such a union.

It is false because it has nothing to do with the issues at hand: the elimination of discrimination; the complete extension of the franchise; and the betterment of social and economic conditions in Bermuda. It is false because quite obviously there will not be intermarriage until it is desired by both parties who would enter into such a union. Therefore, there is no problem. There is also no problem if it is desired by both parties because it will be desired by both parties and therefore there can be no problem.

This might seem to be a very simple and fundamental way of approaching the question. Such it is, and to approach it in any other way is to approach it falsely and to cloud over the fact that there is no real issued involved in the divisive, stupid, and emotional question of intermarriage. Thus, the fact that a baby does not know how to walk is no problem as far as the baby is concerned either before or after he has learned to walk. He walks when he is able and ready and not before. It is the same with society generally: it is the same with all progress and change: it is the same with the subject of intermarriage.

And now let us consider the question of a

HIGH STANDARD OF LIVING

Another argument against changing conditions in Bermuda is that Bermudians have a high standard of living in comparison with that in many other countries and, therefore, there is no real cause for complaint. Even where one to grant that such a high standard of living exists in Bermuda, the argument would still be pointless. Man is, always has been, and always will be interested in improving his lot no matter what standard of living he enjoys. He strives constantly to make the world a better place to live in, and there is always something to challenge him in every area of life. Surely it would be a most isolated and blind individual who would suggest that there can be found no conditions in Bermuda which present a challenge.

Apart from this, one must question the suggestion that Bermudians enjoy such a high standard of living in light of the almost total lack of security under which most Bermudians live. Added to this fact must be the high cost of the necessities of life and the knowledge that wages and salaries in Bermuda are much lower than, say, in Canada or the United States while prices, if anything, are higher in Bermuda. The truth of the matter is that there is definitely much room for improvement and progress as far as Bermudians are concerned.

Of course, the real purpose of the argument is to suggest that only the Negro is discontented with his lot and with the state of affairs in Bermuda. Obviously, this is not true. Discontent knows no colour line in Bermuda and with good reason. All are affected by the inflated cost of food and clothing, high rentals, low wages, etc., and relief in these areas will only come when we realize that such problems must be attacked by all in a united fashion.

And now, what about

"FOREIGNERS" AND AGITATORS

Because some persons who have been critical of conditions which exist in Bermuda have not been born here, the vested interests often describe them as "foreigners" and "Johnny-come-latelys" and suggest that if they do not like conditions in Bermuda they can always leave. A little observation will show that the so-called "foreigners" and "Johnny-come-latelys" are only resented if they are critical of the status quo and a system which allows the vested interests complete and absolute control. If, however, an outsider comes to Bermuda with money to spend or invest, he is welcomed with open arms and outstretched hands by the vested interests.

It should be plain that a person who is living in a country, whether he be native or foreign born, has a perfect right and, indeed, a duty to speak out against those conditions which he considers unsatisfactory. If what he has to say is correct and he has the interests of the people at heart, he will be listened to: if he is incorrect and is thinking only of himself, he will be ignored.

The vested interests also claim that most Bermudians are quite happy with the way things are and that agitators are the cause of unrest. Again, it must be quite obvious that the vested interests are only betraying their utter contempt for the people by using such an argument. To them, most people are fools and idiots who can be misled and corrupted by any person who has powerful lungs and a large bank account.

It is not difficult to see, however, that a person will remain in a position of leadership and be listened to only as long as his leadership and what he has to say are meaningful to his supporters. As soon as he neglects to express what the people feel and think, he will no longer be listened to or supported. This simple fact cannot be understood by the vested interests since the limited franchise has made it unnecessary for them to be concerned about what the people either think or feel. This is unfortunate for the vested interests because they will be completely bewildered and perplexed when they discover that most Bermudians are disgusted with the feudal conditions which exist in Bermuda and are anxious that there be change.

As soon as it is understood, therefore, that all of this talk about intermarriage, high standard of living, and foreigners and agitators is merely another method by which the vested interests try to divide and confuse people, so too will it be recognized for the complete and utter nonsense it is. It will then be possible to make certain that real change comes to Bermuda instead of the substitution of one lie and abuse for another lie and abuse.

We have diagnosed the disease, let us now in the final chapter consider the remedy.

CHAPTER 4

A Programme for Solving the Real Problems

IT IS not enough merely to uncover the causes of problems: it is also necessary to outline a clear course of action by which the problems can be overcome. Some persons will no doubt suggest that causes are easier to find than are remedies. This belief is often supported by the vested interests since any attitude which claims the world is in such a mess that nothing can be done about it is no threat to the position of the vested interest.

Actually, once the causes are known, a great deal can be done. Thus, an effective treatment for malaria was possible once the cause of the illness was known.

The same can be said of social and economic ills. Armed with a knowledge of the causes of such ills, the path ahead is cleared of confusion and doubt. For example, some people who appear to be sincere declare themselves in favour of universal franchise: they do not work and press for it, however, since they have been told by the vested interests that all Bermudians will be granted the franchise when they have shown that they are "ready" for such responsibility. Now, without a clear understanding of just what is behind the limited franchise, this might appear to be a logical attitude. But when it is understood that the vested interests use the limited franchise to maintain a divided Bermuda, and, as a result, their privileged positions, more light is shed on the situation. It then becomes clear that change will only come when there is a united and determined body of opinion which insists that there be a complete and democratic extension of the franchise. Obviously, no privileged group is willing going to give up its privileges.

Let us now restate the problems, abuses, and evils which exist in Bermuda, and at the same time suggest an effective and realistic programme by which they can be solved.

THE FRANCHISE

The evils of the present system of franchise have been clearly stated. Real progress in no department of life can come to Bermuda as long as this system is maintained. The franchise must, therefore, be completely extended so that all persons living in Bermuda will have the right to vote (and only one vote) on becoming twenty-one years of age.

SEGREGATION AND DISCRIMINATION

Ability and capacity are not decided by the colour of a person's skin nor on the basis of national origin. Discrimination and segregation, whether it be directed against Negro, Portuguese, Catholic or other religious denomination, serves only the cause of the vested interests and breeds hatred and tension, disunity and misunderstanding and prevents progress. A law must be passed which will make illegal and punishable social and/or economic discrimination and segregation or any other attack upon human dignity and worth in places supported in whole or in part by government funds, or in places catering to the public, or in places of employment.

DISCRIMINATION AGAINST WOMEN

In addition to the obvious forms of discrimination practiced in Bermuda, there is also economic discrimination against women. Such discrimination is founded on the false concept that man is basically superior to woman. There is great need for legislation which will insist that remuneration be on the basis of work - or equal pay for equal work - and that this principle and not one based on a person's sex be accepted as the basis for remuneration.

SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC SECURITY

Illness and accident, maternity, old age, blindness, partial or complete disability, and unemployment are sufficient problems in themselves without their having to be fear for financial reasons. Nor should an individual need to fear dismissal without just cause. A Government sponsored plan of social security and insurance is long overdue, as is legislation which will protect the employee against arbitrary dismissal.

HIGH PRICES AND LOW WAGES AND SALARIES

The extremely high cost of the basic necessities of life - food, clothing, shelter, etc. - is a burden and constant source of worry and complaint to the great majority of Bermudians. Such a state of affairs has a number of causes: the method by which Government revenue is obtained, that is, ad valorem; the policies of the commission merchants and some of the large local firms; low wage and salary levels; lack of unity amongst consumers, etc. There is urgent need for price controls on basic necessities, rent controls and minimum wage and salary standards.

GOVERNMENT FUNDS

The principle has already been stated that Government (public) funds must only be directed towards those projects and institutions which are truly public (that is, which do not discriminate or segregate). Such a statement is incomplete, however, if it does not also insist that the Government abandon its present unequal and retrogressive method of collecting funds (ad valorem) in favour of a progressive plan of taxation based on income, inheritance, and excess profits.

FACILITIES FOR BERMUDIANS

Although great emphasis is placed upon meeting the needs of the tourist, little attention is given to the needs of Bermudians. Thus, there is a glaring shortage of decent housing accommodation: a government sponsored low-rent housing project must be instituted and the cost of home mortgages reduced; schools are overcrowded and inadequate and the conditions in many undesirable; the Hamilton Goal is unworthy even by the standards of a past century; the Government supported hospital has a chronic shortage of beds; parks, stadia, and other facilities which contribute to the individual's physical, mental and cultural development and allow him to express himself in these areas are practically non-existent: land and funds must immediately be set aside and/or obtained for such development; many Government employees have not had the necessary training for the work they are called upon to perform, particularly in the welfare and corrective fields, and more qualified personnel cannot be obtained because of the low salaries offered. All of the above deficiencies must be remedied.

TRAINING FOR BERMUDIANS

Many positions in Bermuda are filled by non-Bermudians. It would be an extreme and unhealthy form of nationalism to insist that a country must only employ natives of that country. Often, however, positions are filled by non-Bermudians which could equally well be filled by Bermudians. Legislation is needed which will prevent a non-Bermudian from entering the country to occupy a position for which a qualified, capable, and interested Bermudian is available. There must also be opportunity greater than now exists for Bermudians to receive training in the trades and professions so that they can fill those positions for which is now necessary to employ non-Bermudians. Government scholarships and grant-in-aid should be increased in number and in variety so that this objective can be made a reality.

FILMS, MAGAZINES, AND COMICS

One does not have the freedom to kill and steal: one should not have the freedom to pervert and corrupt. All, except those who profit from such trash, would agree as to the undesirability of much of the written, pictorial, and visual material which circulates in Bermuda. To argue that such materials is harmless harping as it does upon violence, brutality, immorality, and a perverted approach to the sex factor in the lives of people is to fly in the face of reality. Nor do those pseudo-scientific psychological theories which claim that the individual obtains release, escape, and instinctual satisfaction from contact with such pornography alter the basic fact that harm is caused to a society which allows it to be circulated. The circulation and exhibition of such matter must be stopped.

TRADE UNION AND CIVIL RIGHTS LEGISLATION

Legislation must be enacted which affirms and protects the basic rights and civil liberties of the individual irrespective of national and racial origin, sex, opinion, and belief. The existing Trades Union legislation requires immediate revision. Unions in Bermuda must have the same rights and privileges as are enjoyed by unions in Great Britain.

CULTURAL LIFE

One does not have to be observant to notice that there is a great deal of artistic, musical, and dramatic talent to be found amongst Bermudians. It is severely limited, however, in the opportunity given it for expression and development by the absence of the appropriate facilities and Government support and encouragement. As a result, many gifted Bermudians are either forced to prostitute their talents or are unable to develop to their full potential. Government recognition of its obligations in this field would help to solve the problem.

ILLEGITIMACY, PROSTITUTION, CRIMINALITY, AND DELINQUENCY

Just as a people is not born inferior, so too is a person not born with a predisposition to violating the law or codes of behaviour. Thus, no matter how sincere the efforts to reform the individual, they can never be as successful and complete as is the reform of those conditions, abuses, and evils in society which breed anti-social behaviour and attitudes. Merely to attempt to reform the individual's undesirable behaviour is to patch and maintain a system which often should be rooted out and discarded. Attempts to reform the individual, therefore, must also be backed and made meaningful by attacking bad social and economic conditions which are the major cause of anti-social behaviour.

CALL TO ALL BERMUDIANS

Bermudians are surrounded by many problems - problems which need not be and which must not be if Bermuda is to survive as an island worthy of the name "home". It is only wishful thinking and a refusal to face (or a complete lack of knowledge of) the realities of the situation which cannot recognize the truth of this statement.

The power of the vested interests is founded on their wealth and not on their numbers. As long as we remain confused and divided and accept the philosophy of every man for himself, the vested interests will be able to continue to amass wealth and profit and to subject the policy of the country to this aim.

Only with unity and brotherhood and a recognition that we all have common interests and needs irrespective of national origin, colour, or creed can we insist that a policy be followed that is based, not on the amassing of wealth for the few, but rather on the standard of what will bring social and economic security and happiness to all, and the release and expression of creative energies.

Surely the challenge which faces us all is the creation of an organization and/or a broad public movement the immediate goal of which will be to have discrimination and segregation on the basis of colour eliminated, the franchise extended to all, wage, price and rent legislation passed, and the other real problems and evils attacked and a solution found for them which will ensure a decent life for all. This can be achieved, but only if all can vote and only if we refuse to allow ourselves to remain divided on the basis of colour.

Now is the time. If we wait, Bermuda will be plundered of all beauty and attraction and we so divided that it will be too late. It will demand maturity, courage, determination, and the ability to change many of our present habits of thinking. The formation of an organisation or movement such as has been described would provide the proof that we possess these qualities.