In every generation, there comes a moment that redefines the social fabric of a country – a moment when the future is reshaped by the will of the people.

Throughout Bermuda’s history, one undeniable truth has remained consistent: real change has never come from the top down. It has always come from the people — ordinary men and women who decided that enough was enough. Every major social or political shift we have experienced as a country has been led by those who refused to accept the status quo.

Think about the 1959 Theatre Boycott: a small, determined group of young people, later known as the Progressive Group, ignited a movement that dismantled racial segregation in our public spaces. They did not have political power but they had the will of the people behind them. Within two weeks, they forced a system built on exclusion to crumble.

In the aftermath of that social disruption, the 1960s saw the birth of Bermuda’s modern political system, another people-led movement. The Progressive Labour Party was formed by everyday Bermudians determined to challenge an inequitable parliamentary system that disproportionately favoured the White elite. Their efforts led to the 1968 Constitution and universal adult suffrage — both hard-won victories driven by the will of the people.

Then there was the 1965 Belco Riot, a moment when workers stood up for their rights, demanding fair wages and better conditions. That struggle, though met with resistance, led to lasting protections for workers across the island. The General Strike of 1981 was another defining moment, proving that when Bermudians stand together, those in power must listen.

More recently, in 2016, the Pathways to Status protest saw Bermudians rally against an immigration-reform initiative that they feared would undermine local opportunities. Protesters physically blocked parliamentarians from entering the House of Assembly, making it clear that the people would not be ignored. That moment of resistance shaped the political landscape leading into the historic 2017 election, reinforcing once again that real power lies in the hands of the people.

Time and time again, we have seen the power of collective action shape Bermuda’s future. And here we are today, standing on the verge of another pivotal moment in our history.

For the first time, 109 candidates will stand in the General Election — an unprecedented number of Bermudians stepping forward to represent the people. Among them, 36 are members of the majority party, the PLP. Another 36 represent the Opposition, the One Bermuda Alliance. Ten have joined the Free Democratic Movement and an astounding 26 will stand as independent candidates.

This alone makes the 2025 General Election one for the history books. But today, I ask you — the voters —- will this election be remembered as a revolutionary one?

On February 18, the electorate will decide the direction of Bermuda’s future. Make no mistake, this election is not just about which party will lead but about the political future of our country. Will we continue on the same path or will we demand something different? Will we accept business as usual or will we take a stand for bold, transformative change?

The same spirit that fuelled past social movements is needed now more than ever. Our people are facing economic challenges, a struggling healthcare system, an education system in need of administrative reform, and a growing disconnect between leadership and the people they represent.

I am running as an independent candidate for Southampton West Central because I believe in the power of the people. The change we need will not come from those already in power; it will come from us.

This election is more than just a vote. It’s a movement — a call for greater accountability, policies that prioritise people over politics and a system of representation that is constituent-focused.

History has shown us that Bermuda’s greatest transformations happen when the people step up and initiate change. February 18 is our moment to take a stand, just as those before us did.

It's our turn now. Will we be the generation that reshapes our democracy? I sincerely hope so.

• Juanae Crockwell is an independent candidate for Southampton West Central (Constituency 31)

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