Mr. Speaker, June is the time when we pause to honour our National Heroes: those exceptional individuals whose courage, vision and service have helped shape the Bermuda we know today.
Mr. Speaker, being named a National Hero is not just a ceremonial title. It reflects a legacy of courage, integrity, service, and vision. Our National Heroes represent the best of us. They have enriched the lives of others, improved the quality of life in Bermuda, and demonstrated a lasting commitment to the progress of our island.
Mr. Speaker, by honouring their lives, we celebrate the values that define us as Bermudians — dedication to community, strength of character, love of country, and a deep belief in justice and fairness. To know our heroes is to know ourselves: our collective history, our identity, and the qualities that make Bermuda strong. They show us what is possible when passion meets purpose and remind us of our shared responsibility to build a better society.
Mr. Speaker, National Heroes Day is a time for reflection, honour and gratitude. This year, we reaffirm our commitment to recognising the eight extraordinary Bermudians who have already been named as National Heroes. Their stories continue to guide and inspire us.
Mr. Speaker, the Naming and Recognition Committee, under the National Heroes Act 2024, is a diverse committee of various sectors to ensure the selection process and the decision is fair and transparent. The members were selected in accordance with the statutory requirements, including representation from the public and the Opposition. The Committee unanimously concluded that none of the nominated individuals met the threshold of “exceptional and outstanding service to Bermuda” required under Section 4(1) of the Act. A letter dated 27, May 2025 was submitted to me stating: “Following careful review and discussion, the Committee has reached its recommendation. While we deeply respect the accomplishments of the nominees, it is the Committee’s view that a new National Hero is a profound honour, reserved for individuals whose impact is not only exceptional, but larger than life. After a comprehensive assessment of the twenty-five individuals nominated, the Committee concluded that none fully meet this threshold at this time.”
However, Mr. Speaker, the decision not to name a new National Hero at this time does not preclude the use of alternative forms of recognition for individuals whose contributions are significant but do not meet the statutory threshold. The Committee has determined to reconvene to consider suggestions for such recognition based on the nominations received, and the Ministry will consider these options through the appropriate channels.
I extend my sincere thanks to all those who submitted nominations, many of which recognised the legacies of deceased Bermudians whose contributions shaped the life of our island. I also wish to thank the Naming and Recognition Committee for their careful and committed work in reviewing each submission and stewarding this meaningful process with integrity.
Mr. Speaker, under the National Heroes Act 2024, the public nomination process now takes place once every ten years. That process began in late 2024 and will not reopen until 2034. While some may be disappointed that a new hero is not being named this year, this approach reflects a deliberate effort to ensure that such a high national honour is bestowed with the greatest care, reflection, and public consensus. The decision not to name a new hero at this time was guided by the Committee’s rigorous review process and the need to maintain the integrity, consistency, and significance of the title.
Mr. Speaker, this honour is reserved for those whose impact on Bermuda is profound, enduring, and widely recognised. The ten-year cycle allows us the necessary time to assess legacy in full, to educate and engage the public in a thoughtful manner, and to safeguard the standing of those who carry this title on behalf of the nation.
Mr. Speaker, the eight individuals who have been formally recognised as National Heroes to date embody the highest ideals of service, leadership, and legacy in Bermuda:
- Dame Lois Browne-Evans
- Dr. Edgar Fitzgerald Gordon
- Dr. Pauulu Kamarakafego
- Sir Henry Tucker
- Mary Prince
- Gladys Morrell
- Sir Edward Trenton Richards
- Sir John W. Swan
Mr. Speaker, to honour these eight trailblazers, the Department of Culture will host the National Heroes Celebration on Tuesday, July 1st, 2025. This free event, open to the public, will spotlight some of Bermuda’s most talented artists, all of whom carry forward the legacy of excellence and cultural pride that our National Heroes represent.
Event details will be available at www.culture.bm.
Mr. Speaker, from National Heroes Day through to 22 June, CITV will also air a series of video vignettes that highlight the lives and impact of our National Heroes. These stories serve not only to inform but to inspire civic pride and cultural understanding.
Mr. Speaker, National Heroes Weekend also coincides with the Edward Cross Long Distance Comet Race, a historic event in Bermuda's sailing calendar, which takes place between the West End Sailboat Club, the Mid Atlantic Boat and Sports Club, and the East End Mini Yacht Club. This race stands as a tribute to Edward "Jack" Cross, who created the trophy awarded annually to the winner of the race. This year’s race begins at the West End Sailboat Club at 11 am, concluding approximately three hours later in St. George’s Harbour, near the East End Mini Yacht Club.
Mr. Speaker, as you all would we aware, National Heroes Weekend also includes the vibrant celebration of Carnival in Bermuda, featuring events such as Space Jam J’ouvert, the energetic Revel De Road Parade, and numerous other experiences organised by Bermudian event producers for an action-packed weekend of culture, music, and celebration.
Mr. Speaker, as we honour the legacy of our National Heroes, let us reflect on their examples and recommit ourselves to building a Bermuda that reflects their values: justice, service, courage and unity. In celebrating them, we celebrate who we are — and who we aspire to be.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker.