Despite Bradshaw’s extended contribution to improve the lives of black people in St. Kitts & Nevis and throughout the entire Caribbean, the divisive political culture of our country continues to distract our attention from the remarkable achievements of one of the Caribbean’s most respected and admired leaders.
On Sunday, 29th May, 2011, Bradshaw’s contribution to nation building was highlighted in a tribute delivered by former Senator and well known barrister, Dr. Henry Browne, who once served as a Deputy Political Leader of the St. Kitts & Nevis Labour Party, which was led by Bradshaw, though in a different period.
In his address, at a Requiem Mass on Sunday, 29th May, 2011, Dr. Browne described Bradshaw’s life as one of purpose and sustained intellectual pursuits in search of a better life for his people, especially the down trodden and dispossessed.
“The life of Robert Bradshaw was a cultured one rich in achievements. His genius was reflected in the fields of trade unionism, politics and government. Robert Bradshaw’s mosaic and courteous disposition was a fillip to his ability glamour and charm,” said the prominent Nevisian-born orator and barrister, while paying homage to Bradshaw and other fallen Labour Movement stalwarts.
Dr. Browne retraced the political life of Bradshaw as former Chief Minister and First Premier highlighting the National Hero’s commitment to the ideals of up-liftment which was steadfast from the time he became of understanding years up to the time he passed away on 23rd May, 1978.
“Robert Bradshaw was born into an epoch when the black man in the Caribbean was still labouring under the legacy of slavery. Opportunities for the black man were almost nil. His then, was the lot of a hewer of wood and a drawer of water. For him to advance even into secondary education was not thought of. The poorly staffed and maintained all age elementary school was by imperial design, the lot of the black man. Robert Llewellyn Bradshaw was a black man. He was however destined to succeed,” said Dr. Browne.
The congregation, in attendance for Dr. Browne’s presentation included Governor General Dr. Sir Cuthbert Sebastian, Deputy Governor of Nevis, His Honour Mr. Eustace John and Mrs. John, Prime Minister Dr. Denzil Douglas, Deputy Prime Minister Sam Condor and Mrs. Condor, Cabinet Ministers, family members, representatives of the diplomatic and consular corps and persons from all walks of life.