HAMILTON, Bermuda – The ruling Progressive Labour Party (PLP) Tuesday mourned the death of one of its founding members, Eldridge Eugene Woods, saying he had played a significant role in ending racial segregation and securing the vote for every Bermudian.
“Mr Woods was a giant in Bermuda’s history. His courage and conviction helped shape the Bermuda we know today. The freedoms and rights we often take for granted were hard-fought by men and women like Mr Woods, who refused to accept injustice,” Premier David Burt, said as he paid tribute to Woods.
He described the 89-year-old Woods, as “a man whose unwavering commitment to justice, equality and democracy helped lay the foundation for modern Bermuda”.
Woods, an electrical technician, was among those who gathered in private to research and create the PLP in 1963, serving as its public relations officer before taking up the position of chairman.
In a statement, the PLP described Woods, as the “last of the PLP founders,” adding that “as the last surviving founder of the PLP, Mr. Woods’ passing marks the end of an era, but his legacy will live on in the countless lives he touched and the progress he helped bring about”.
The party recalled the “critical role in the theatre boycott that led to the desegregation of Bermuda’s hotels, theatres, and restaurants.
“His work as General Secretary of the Bermuda Industrial Union helped strengthen the labour movement, ensuring that workers had a voice in shaping their future. His advocacy for universal adult suffrage was instrumental in dismantling discriminatory voting laws and ushering in a more democratic Bermuda.”
The PLP said that Woods’ service to the party and the country was recognized with the Queen’s Certificate and Badge of Honour for his contributions to race relations and the fight against discrimination.”
PLP chairperson Dawn Simmons said the passing of Woods “is a profound loss for our party and our country.
“He was a man of principle and purpose, whose tireless efforts helped dismantle the barriers of segregation and injustice. His leadership, wisdom, and sacrifice paved the way for generations to follow. We honour his memory by continuing the work he started, fighting for fairness, equality, and opportunity for all Bermudians.”
The cause of his death has not been given. Woods is survived by wife, Whilma-Jean, children, Gregory, Andre, Ryan and Janene as well as several grandchildren