By Donte Hunt, One Bermuda Alliance Shadow Minister for Community Development, July 27, 2011

Acts of scapegoating are increasing in Bermuda.

This morning I came across fresh graffiti on the wall of a residence rented by a Filipino expatriate. It read "Filipino Go Home".

This is not an isolated incident. A few days ago Mr. Dale Butler made a comment about the phenomenon in the House of Assembly, and the press has carried pictures of anti-foreigner graffiti in other locations.

This situation cannot be left to go unchallenged and unchecked.

The Bermuda I know and love is not reflected in the cowardly, fearful words popping up around the island. There are connections throughout history between economic hard times and the targeting of minorities and outsiders – some becoming human low points – and I want us to steer clear of that dangerous ledge.

While we understand the economic pressures people are under, there is no excuse to abandon decency.

On behalf of my colleagues in the One Bermuda Alliance, I call on all Bermudians to stop for a moment to consider the nature of what is happening and to speak out against the scapegoating of Filipinos or anyone else.

Bermuda is a welcoming island and that must always prevail, especially in hard times. Only by maintaining the spirit of inclusivity and togetherness can we make a better society for all. Without it, we will never get there.