News Release HAMILTON, Bermuda – On October 21st at Pier 6 in Hamilton, CURB will host an awards ceremony and banquet honouring the life and legacy of Dr Eva Naomi Hodgson. The evening’s theme is ‘Black& Gold’, and it will be a night of inspiring speeches, impactful stories, a silent auction and raffle, local entertainment and the recognition of trailblazers and next-generation contributors in the field of racial justice.

Dr Eva Naomi Hodgson (1924 – 2020) was an activist, writer, union leader, and educator. She was known for her efforts to fight racism in Bermuda from the segregation era into the 21st century. Some labelled Dr. Hodgson as a troublemaker for her uncompromising views. CURB calls her a National Hero, having dedicated her life to advocating for Racial Justice for Bermuda and its people. She served as the first president of the desegregated Amalgamated Bermuda Union of Teachers and wrote four books on her country’s racial and labour history. A tireless social rights campaigner, Dr. Hodgson was named to the Order of the British Empire in 2012 for her work serving the community in Bermuda.

Calls for nominations for The Dr Eva Naomi Hodgson Racial Justice Award were open from May 16 – July 15, 2023. Members of the public were asked to submit names of citizens and organisations that have made a significant contribution toward the elimination of racism and furthering racial equity, restoration of relationships and inclusiveness in Bermuda since the observance of Dr Hodgson’s passing in May 2020. CURB received a total of 20 nominations, 10 of which will receive awards.

“In Dr Hodgson’s name, and honouring her legacy as a trailblazer, historian and activist, CURB is thrilled to recognise and celebrate individuals, organisations and initiatives in Bermuda that are active in this important anti-racist work,” said CURB Executive Director Stacey-Lee Williams. “The Awards will span a diverse cross-section of our community – all of whom have been impactful in their mission and work involving racial education, history, advocacy, empowerment and healing in Bermuda.”

In attendance will be members of the Hodgson family, and Guests of Honour, Mr Haile Maryem and Mr Robert Clifford. Mr Corey Butterfield, JP, will deliver the keynote address.

CURB is grateful to Butterfield, the evening’s lead Equity & Equality sponsor, for their support. CURB would also like to acknowledge the evening’s Diversity & Inclusivity sponsors: Benedict Associates, Clarien, The Coralisle Group, Cultural Affairs, Japan/Australian Cable, Morphosis, OUTBermuda, ReGen, Sovereign Risk Insurance Ltd, a Chubb company and WalkTogetherBermuda. Without the generosity of our sponsors, this event would not have been possible.

A limited number of gala tickets are still available and can be ordered through ptix.bm