BTUC: ‘An Icon Of Bermuda’s Labour Movement’
“We have truly lost an icon of Bermuda’s Labour movement, who was not only known for his passion, commitment, dedication, and advocacy for workers rights, but also his resilience to always stand up for democracy and equality,” Bermuda Trade Union Congress [BTUC] General Secretary Kevin Grant said.
lMr Grant said, “On behalf of the Bermuda Trade Union Congress [BTUC], we send our most heartfelt condolences to our affiliate the Bermuda Industrial Union on the loss of our dear Brother Ottiwell Simmons.
“Brother Ottie was a well-known figure among all affiliates within the BTUC and always displayed the appropriate demeanour to address the many adversarial challenges he faced, during his time and leaves a legacy of inspiration for all Trade Unionists to follow.
“Brother Ottie always encouraged the trade unionists of my generation to continue to work hard regardless of the many challenges that we would face as trade unionists. He was always an inspiration and “down to earth” to young trade unionists always emphasizing that “the fight goes on—and now it’s up to you!
“When Brother Ottie spoke to you, you could really feel that he knew exactly what you were going through and what you were about to go through as a trade unionist. It was that sort of character and demeanour that he possessed, that made you want to engage a conversation with him every time you saw him.
“We have truly lost an icon of Bermuda’s Labour movement, who was not only known for his passion, commitment, dedication, and advocacy for workers rights, but also his resilience to always stand up for democracy and equality.”
