PLP Mourn The Loss Of Mr Montague Sheppard
The Progressive Labour Party is mourning the loss of broadcasting legend Mr Montague Sheppard.
A spokesperson said, “The Members, Officers, and Parliamentarians of the Progressive Labour Party family are heartbroken to learn of Mr Montague Sheppard’s passing. We offer our sincere sympathies and condolences to his family during their time of mourning.
“Mr Sheppard obeyed his calling and launched ZFB-1, a black-owned radio station from his parents’ property in Pembroke, when other broadcasters wickedly refused to even hire black Bermudians. His talents, skill, and love for his people turned a business into a beacon.
“Central to Mr. Sheppard’s vision was the need to educate and advise Bermuda’s black population about issues that were typically ignored or disrespected by white media houses, and when the Progressive Labour Party was formed a year later, the new Party’s message needed to be heard above the biased and unfair reporting that had traditionally masqueraded as news.
“Undoubtedly, his vision was instrumental to the birth of the Progressive Movement. As the fights for Labour & Civil Rights and Progressive Politics in Bermuda were waged across the airwaves; we all benefited from the early and deep commitment of Montague Sheppard.
“Bermuda has lost a pioneer and stalwart who sacrificed comfort for a cause; and whose personal principles became a progressive platform from which many black Bermudians sought freedom and liberty from an oppressive and racist system.
“We trust and pray that Bro. Sheppard rests in peace and power…while our faith tells us we will be with him again. May God Bless his wonderful and supportive Family.”
