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Dr. Albert Grant OBE, Ipswich's first black mayor and long-serving councillor, has passed away at 89. The well-loved community leader was known for his dedication to racial equality and justice.
Why it matters: Grant's 26-year tenure as a councillor and his work with numerous local organisations left an indelible mark on Ipswich's community.
Key details:
Born in Barbados in 1934, Grant moved to Ipswich in 1955 at age 21
Elected as councillor for Whitehouse Ward in the mid-1980s, serving until 2016
Became Ipswich's first Black Mayor in 1995-1996
Awarded an OBE in 2000 for services to the Ipswich community
Received an honorary doctorate from the University of Suffolk in October 2021
Grant's community involvement:
Co-founded the Ipswich Caribbean Association
Co-founded the Ipswich and Suffolk West Indian Association
Founded and later became a trustee of the Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality
What they're saying: The current Mayor, Councillor Elango Elavalakan, said: "It is with great sadness that we learn of the loss of Albert Grant. We send our sincere condolences to his family and friends at this time."
Elavalakan added: "He is remembered for his unswerving dedication to tackling racism and deep commitment to equality and justice."
The bottom line: Grant's tireless efforts to combat racism and promote equality will continue to positively impact Ipswich for years to come. His work in founding organisations like the Ipswich and Suffolk Council for Racial Equality continues to shape community relations and foster integration in the town today, which, given the recent events in towns and cities around the country, is clearly much-needed.
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