Vexed Bermoothes

Conversations allow people with different views of a topic to learn from each other. A speech, on the other hand, is an oral presentation of one point of view directed at a group.

And that’s the problem with the Big Conversation: Government appears to want the community to shut up and listen. Even people who support reconciliation dialogue are intimidated to be quiet so that Government’s selected voices can set the agenda. It’s a Big Speech.

Dale Butler has provided a perfect example of what’s wrong with this approach, by joining CURE in announcing to the media that the Anglican Church should make amends for the past by providing scholarships for black Bermudians. The local Anglican leader responded that the Church would make amends, but on its own terms.

Amazingly, Minister Butler has responded on the news today in an outraged tone with comments that belittle the Archbishop … a black Bermudian who is widely respected in our community, has worked to the top of his profession, and has been very active on social issues including that of racial reconciliation.

Uncharacteristically, Minister Butler sounded like a bully. By this action, he has confirmed the worries of many in the community that the current Big Conversation is acting upon accusation rather than reconciliation.

It is a real stretch for any government (South Africa notwithstanding) to successfully sponsor such an initiative – nevermind this Government which so recently and enthusiastically engaged in racial partisanship itself. Real healing of the community must occur at the grassroots level. It does not happen by committees led by political appointees.