Celebrated storytellers came together to deliver “powerful narratives of courage and activism” in an immersive historical tour hosted by the Government.

The latest edition of Creatives Live! delivered They Arrive: Remembering the Enterprise and Other Stories of Resistance at Barr’s Bay Park and various locations in Hamilton.

Several primary school classes attended the event, which made it “a deeply impactful educational experience for the next generation”, the Government said.

A spokeswoman explained: “The tour commenced with Maxine Esdaille, of the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Bermuda Foundation, recounting the 1835 arrival of the Enterprise, a US vessel carrying enslaved persons who found freedom upon reaching Bermuda.”

Owen Darrell, the Minister of Tourism, Culture and Sport, noted the significance of the story and pointed out that it was deeply personal for him as a relative of his had arrived on the island aboard the ship.

He said: “Hearing the story of the Enterprise shared on its 190th anniversary was incredibly moving.

“It serves as a reminder of the resilience of those who sought freedom and the role Bermuda played in their journey.”

The government spokeswoman said: “The storytelling continued with author and Progressive Group member Florenz Maxwell, who spoke passionately about the 1959 Theatre Boycott and read from her book, Girlcott, offering a poignant reflection on Bermuda’s journey towards social justice.

“As the tour moved through Hamilton, attendees heard from Glenn Fubler about the Black Beret Cadre’s 1970 protest against apartheid, while Yesha Townsend illuminated the 1951 Bermudiana Playhouse protest.

“Monique Lister shared the story of the 2020 Social Justice Bermuda demonstration at the US Consulate, drawing parallels between historical and modern movements.

“Liana Nanang Omodele and Ajala Nanang Omodele recounted the struggles surrounding the 1977 Buck Burrows and Larry Tacklyn court case, as well as the 1965 Belco uprising, reminding the audience of Bermuda’s complex past and ongoing fight for equality.

“The tour concluded with Kristin White and performer Joy T. Barnum at the Cabinet grounds, where they brought to life the story of Sally Bassett and the poison plots of 1830.”

Mr Darrell added: “Their storytelling, underscored by Barnum’s evocative performance, left attendees with a lasting impression of the resilience and defiance that have shaped Bermuda’s history.

“The success of this year’s Creatives Live! historical tour reaffirms the importance of preserving these narratives and ensuring they remain accessible to future generations.”