by Jamahl Simmons JP, MP, Constituency #33, Sandys South

Contrary to what the OBA claims, Minister Hayward didn’t “inject race” into the conversation. Bermudians brought it to him as they have brought to every, single PLP MP, Senator and Candidate. 

Bermudians tell us they feel stifled, overlooked, and pushed aside in their own country. That deserves action, not dismissal.

The OBA says this is about “economic reality.” But what’s the reality for Black Bermudian workers? Being underrepresented in boardrooms. Passed over for promotions. Treated like outsiders in their own country. That’s not just anecdotal e, it’s a structural issue that must be addressed.

Calling for a deep dive into workplace discrimination isn’t radical. It’s responsible. If the people the OBA truly work for say there’s nothing to hide, then prove it. Let’s see the data. Let’s see who’s being paid what, and who’s really advancing.

We recognise that proximity to privilege makes some of us immune to the marginalisation, disrespect and abuse that too many of us face in the workplace, but true leadership listens to uncomfortable truths, even when they are outside your personal experience.

That's called empathy.

The OBA’s response? Denial, distraction, and defensiveness. That’s not leadership. That’s cowardice.

In fact, any leader who denies the reality of their own people may be perfectly suited to lead the OBA, but they are deeply ill-suited to speak for and lead Bermudians.

I commend Minister Hayward for doing what must be done to level the playing field for Bermudians.