Expert: Michael - 3/30/2006

Question
This is more of a statement. As a Bermudian studying in Canada I was just looking for some information on dinghies for my university's cultural expo, and came across a few items you got wrong. You definitely deserve the title of expert, since you know so much. But 1/3 of Bermudians are not Portuguese, and 55-60% of Bermudians identify themselves as black, with most of us claiming West Indian ancestry, as you asserted to. I found your statement of "West Indian slave who have since been emancipated" as very offensive and politcally incorrect. Black Bermudians identify themselves as Bermudians, not West Indian slaves. This is just for your information, as I realise that you do not like to be "quoted".  

Answer
Dear Akilah Beckles,

Thank you so much for your interest in my writing and a few kind words thrown in.  Please know that the title expert is tongue and cheek and only applies to the website's draw.  My knowledge is only from my past experiances in Bermuda ... kinda like from what I've seen, felt and sensed while vacationing on the island(s).  I just love Bermuda, it's people and culture.

Please accept my apologies if I inerrantly identified todays black Bermudians as West Indian slaves who have been emancipated.  I was trying to identify the heritage of those of West Indian descent.  Respectfully speaking, if it was not slavery please advise.  Perhaps it was in the wording.  With that said ... what is the percentage of Portuguese population?

Good luck in your studies Akilah, and thank you again for taking the time to set me straight.  If you care to write me off AllExperts I can be reached at MFedeny@aol.com.

With the good Lord willing Linda and I will again be basking in the delight of Bermuda the end of this summer.  Quo Fata Ferunt.

Best regards,
Michael