Bermuda's National Heroes
Three outstanding men hailed as the architects of modern Bermuda are the Island's National Heroes for 2011.The lives of Dr EF Gordon, Dr Roosevelt Brown and Sir Henry Tucker are all entwined and they are often mentioned in the same breath as men of vision and determination.As National Heroes, they follow in the path of Dame Lois Browne Evans who was the Island's first officially proclaimed hero in 2008.Community Minister Michael Weeks said: “There are several outstanding characteristics that these gentlemen possessed. Resourcefulness and perseverance stand out as I reflect on their individual contributions.“I think each demonstrated those traits in their unyielding and unrelenting pursuit of correcting social injustices — goals certainly of Dr EF Gordon and Dr Roosevelt Brown. Sir Henry displayed those similar traits as he worked steadfastly to improve Bermuda's economy and expand the financial well being of this country.”He added: “It is vital for us to celebrate our National Heroes because by so doing we bring public recognition to what they have achieved and how they have impacted and helped shape the Bermuda that we all enjoy today.“It is important as a means of teaching our young people about our leaders and what they have done that benefits all now. Celebrating our heroes is also a vehicle through which we engender national pride, unity, sense of community and foster relationships.“The men who have been chosen to be so designated as National Heroes are reflective of Bermuda's cultural heritage and diversity; which is one of the criteria for a National Hero Award. By celebrating National Heroes, awareness of our collective history is encouraged and social cohesion is promoted as well. All three men have demonstrated exceptional leadership qualities.”Mr Weeks said it was impossible for him to pick his own National Hero, adding: “That is a very difficult question as I believe there are many Bermudians who are worthy of the recognition and it would be tough for me to choose just one.”Asked if he would urge the people of Bermuda to come out and support the celebrations on Sunday, the Minister said: “Absolutely. As a people we must be encouraged to give honour where honour is due; and to celebrate who we are and what has been accomplished.“Also Dr Gordon was esteemed as “the father of the labour movement” and is worthy of recognition of all that he did. Also people will hear first hand about some of his work in founding of the Bermuda Workers Association. Likewise the audience will learn of the work done by Dr Roosevelt Brown in bringing about Universal Adult Suffrage and his work with the United Nations. The audience will as well learn the work of Sir Henry Tucker and how he helped develop Bermuda's banking industry.”The Induction Ceremony will take place in the Botanical Gardens Show Ring on Sunday, June 19, beginning at 6pm. This Ceremony, honouring the contributions of three giants in Bermuda's political, economic and social history, will feature performances from several groups including the Bermuda Regiment, TROIKA, The Menuhin Orchestra, a combined Primary School choir and Vejay Steede.The National Heroes Day official public holiday will be observed on Monday 20 June, 2011. Minister Weeks invited the community to enjoy the day and to consider the importance of community service and spending time with family and loved ones.