Condolences On Passing Of Kenyetta Young
The Progressive Labour Party extended their condolences to the family and friends of union giant Kenyetta Young, who passed away this weekend.
According to the BIU’s website, Mr Young was a 17 year old trainee plumber who had not long been out of school when he was attracted to the Union, and by 1965, he “was a full fledged activist when the BELCO action occurred” and became ”one of the Union’s most prolific organizers and negotiators.”
Pembroke East Central MP Walter Roban recalls, “Kenyetta Young was one of Bermuda’s most fearless trade unionists who fought tirelessly for the workers. He was my Proposer in 2007 to run for the House in my first general election as a candidate.
“His life’s work was helping people. For all he has done, he is truly a hero for all of us who knew him. I learned so much from him. He was a hero, champion and a teacher to me personally.
“I remember visits to the BIU when he was an Officer there and he was one of the people who informed me about unionism, politics and the issues concerning workers. I have never forgotten this.”
Hamilton East MP and Shadow Minister of Labour Derrick Burgess fondly remembers Brother Kenyetta, “He fought to eradicate the injustices in the workplace and would not compromise his principles. A historian who would tell you that not knowing your history is at your peril.
“He played an integral part in securing benefits for the worker particularly in the construction industry- namely pensions, sick pay , vacation and public holiday pay benefits that are taken for granted today. Bermuda has moulded some giants and cousin Kenyatta was one of them.”
Party Leader Marc Bean comments, “Everyone familiar with the union movement in Bermuda should be aware of the contribution of Kenyetta Young. On behalf of the Progressive Labour Party, we offer our deepest condolences to his family. We thank you for sharing him with Bermuda.”
Coffee will miss Kenyetta , a great man who challenged all to do better !
Rest in peace Burning Spear.
A gentle giant has passed our way.
He has left a strong legacy with his daughter, who is well versed in perservering against the tide.
My condolences to his family.
GOODDAY OR GOOD EVENING TO THE YOUNG FAMILY /BIU/PORTWORKERS,DIV
MY HEART GOES OUT TO ALL WHO HAD A RELATIONSHIP WITH BRO KENYATTA
MAY HE REST IN PEACE.BLESS YOU,LL.
On behalf of our family, I would like to extend our condolences to Carolyn and the entire family as well as the B.I.U. family. Our family fondly remembered Kenyatta as the other half of the office that he shared with our father, Alfred “Joe Manual” Bean. May the Holy Spirit comfort you at this time.Blessings!!!
What a Giant of a man with a big heart and a man who truly lived a life full of hope and inspiration, for all who came in contact with him to glean from. his contribution to both the labor movement and the standing in the gap on many fronts down through the years speaks for it self. for anyone who will come on Bernews and dislike this man or the good that he has shared and done for this country, will only show that these individuals do not know a thing about applauding a life well lived and a job well done on behalf of all regardless or race or creed or religious belief.
Thank You Kenyetta for the life and legacy you have lived and leave behind, may the rewards of the life you lived be honored by the God you served and just know that when you have given the best of your service and letting all mankind know the love you had for humanity, the rewards are far greater then any man can give, To the entire family of both sides of your family along with the Union families of Bermuda, we say our prayers are with and for you at this time.
I extend my deepest condolences to the friends and family of Brother Kenyetta. His wife Carolyn first worked with me when I was in my mid teens. I will always fondly remember the experience, she inspired all who worked with her.
I extend my deepest sympathy to Sis Carolyn & family, SIP Burning spear
A giant of a man who will go down in History as one of Bermuda’s forthright labor organizers, as much was hated a despised by some, on the same hand respected by the same people for his dedication and commitment for workers rights and benefits for the average worker.
One of his trademark images was going on jobsites sporting his hard hat and briefcase in hand and being looked on with RESPECT from both employer and employee.
Respected throughout the Caribbean and other countries, his LAGACY
will live on as a no nonsense but fair negotiator and many employers can verify that.
Rest well with the other WORRIORS, while the rest of us that remain will continue the good fight of faith, see you on the other side.
Burning Sear, Killa, Number !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
LEGACY
Burning Spear, Killa, Number.