The latest edition of Creatives Live! captivated audiences with an immersive historical tour titled They Arrive: Remembering the Enterprise and Other Stories of Resistance. Held on 11 February 2025, at Barr’s Bay Park and various locations in Hamilton, the event brought together some of Bermuda’s most celebrated storytellers to share powerful narratives of courage and activism. Multiple primary school classes attended the event, making it a deeply impactful educational experience for the next generation.

The tour commenced with Maxine Esdaille of the African Diaspora Heritage Trail Bermuda Foundation recounting the 1835 arrival of the Enterprise, a U.S. vessel carrying enslaved persons who found freedom upon reaching Bermuda. 

Minister of Tourism, Culture, and Sports, the Hon. Owen Darrell, JP, present at the event, remarked on the particular significance of this story, noting that it was deeply personal for him as a relative of his had arrived in Bermuda aboard the Enterprise. “Hearing the story of the Enterprise shared on its 190th anniversary was incredibly moving,” said Minister Darrell. “It serves as a reminder of the resilience of those who sought freedom, and the role Bermuda played in their journey.” 

The storytelling continued with author and Progressive Group member Florenz Maxwell, who spoke passionately about the 1959 Theatre Boycott and read from her book, Girlcott, offering a poignant reflection on Bermuda’s journey towards social justice.

As the tour moved through Hamilton, attendees heard from Glenn Fubler about the Black Beret Cadre’s 1970 protest against apartheid, while Yesha Townsend illuminated the 1951 Bermudiana Playhouse protest. Monique Lister shared the story of the 2020 Social Justice Bermuda demonstration at the U.S. Consulate, drawing parallels between historical and modern movements. Liana Nanang Omodele and Ajala Nanang Omodele recounted the struggles surrounding the 1977 Buck Burrows and Larry Tacklyn court case, as well as the 1965 BELCO Uprising, reminding the audience of Bermuda’s complex past and ongoing fight for equality.

The tour concluded with Kristin White and performer Joy T. Barnum at the Cabinet Grounds, where they brought to life the story of Sally Bassett and the poison plots of 1830. 

Commenting on the conclusion of the tour, Minister Darrell said, “Their storytelling, underscored by Barnum’s evocative performance, left attendees with a lasting impression of the resilience and defiance that have shaped Bermuda’s history. The success of this year’s Creatives Live! historical tour reaffirms the importance of preserving these narratives and ensuring they remain accessible to future generations.”