Somersfield Students Attend Celebration of Dr Eva Hodgson’s Life
On Thursday, May 30, a group of Somersfield Academy students—Christina Lee, Yemaya Iris Julianna Tothong, and Cora DeSilva—joined Director of Student Life Ms Tanisha Edwards at the Cathedral of the Most Holy Trinity to honour one of Bermuda’s most powerful voices for racial equity: Dr Eva Naomi Hodgson.
The Celebration of Life, hosted by Citizens Uprooting Racism in Bermuda (CURB), paid tribute to Dr Hodgson’s extraordinary contributions as a scholar, educator, and relentless advocate for social justice. Her legacy continues to shape conversations about race, justice, and identity in Bermuda and beyond.
Somersfield was deeply honoured to be acknowledged during the ceremony as a school that supported Dr Hodgson’s vision. Her commitment to education, truth-telling, and systemic change aligns powerfully with Somersfield’s own values—especially our belief in nurturing socially conscious, independent thinkers prepared to make meaningful contributions to their communities.
Our students’ attendance at the celebration was not just symbolic; it reflected the heart of their IB learning journey. Guided by the IB Learner Profile and our school’s mission, they engage critically with real-world issues, embrace diversity, and seek out opportunities to understand and challenge injustice.
Dr Hodgson’s life is a profound example of what it means to live with courage, integrity, and purpose. From her early years as one of the first Black Bermudians to earn a doctorate, to her outspoken letters in the press, to her behind-the-scenes work introducing human rights into the school curriculum, she left no room for complacency. She reminded us all that progress demands action.
At Somersfield, we are proud to walk a path shaped by educators and visionaries like Dr Hodgson. Her story remains an essential part of Bermuda’s history—and an inspiration for our students as they grow into compassionate, principled leaders of tomorrow.