Yet another year has passed by. No doubt, some are reflecting on events passed and or planning on things to come. Written by Thomas Famous
Less is More
In reflection, there is something that I would like to share. For the last 12 years various local and regional media outlets have been generous in allowing the expressions of topics and opinions inclusive of; history, current events, tributes to those who have passed, and yes, political viewpoints. My deepest gratitude for the opportunities presented.
In order to provide factual information, a columnist has to first educate themselves on; various subject matters, historical facts, cite credible sources, speak with various individuals, read other columns and news reports. All this before they even touch a keyboard.
They then have to present their case in fluid and succinct form so that anyone reading it can understand what is being presented.
Inevitably, depending on the subject matter some will readily agree and others may very well reject what was presented. As long as one can present a case and show sufficient evidence to back their facts, the predictable remarks of countless faceless / nameless commenters will never be the ultimate litmus test.
The Mancurian Candidate?
Over the last few months there has been the emergence of a few political columnists who have made quite a few statements that speak to their particular viewpoints.
One that stands out is claiming that what is going on in Gaza to the Palestinian people is not Apartheid. Perhaps, just perhaps, those who have never experienced outright discrimination and mistreatment cannot fully grasp what are clear signs of racial and religious discrimination.
Before anyone starts with false equivalence, let us be crystal clear. All life is important.
No one should be kidnapped or slaughtered simply for being of a different ethnicity or religion. Recent history has seen it happen in; Northern Ireland, Bosnia and Rwanda.
Many of us are old enough to remember the plight of the native peoples of; South Africa, Kenya and then Rhodesia. When one set of people are; occupied, blatantly denied basic human rights such as; food, shelter and water, and in far too many cases murdered, it is Apartheid.
“I plead for an end to the military operations with their appalling harvest of innocent civilian victims…”
Pope Francis
Whilst the majority of nations in the world are now finally calling for a ceasefire to get hostages back home and to stop the continued senseless slaughter of tens of thousands of women and children, we still have certain persons defending the indefensible.
Always stand with the people
This year has seen Bermuda lose four icons of the civil rights and labour movements of Bermuda. Arthur Hodgson, Ottiwell Simmons, Sheila Burrows and Walter Roberts. Despite the countless remarks by nameless and faceless commenters, they collectively stood their ground and laid the foundation for progress of all Bermudians. No doubt, they would take a stand against modern day Apartheid.
Their lifework ingrained in my generation that no matter the cost, always stand with the people and the people will stand with you.
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