News / Paul Stephenson
Tributes paid to pioneering civil rights leader Paul Stephenson
Paul Stephenson, Bristol’s pioneering civil rights leader whose work made waves across the world, has died at the age of 87.
Stephenson was instrumental in leading the Bristol Bus Boycott in 1963.
His passing comes only a week after his one-man sit-in at the Bay Horse pub for refusing to be served because he was a Black man was honoured with a plaque.
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Stephenson died on Saturday evening “after a courageous battle with Parkinson’s disease and dementia, which he faced with the same unwavering determination that defined his life”.
In a statement, Fumi and Paul Jr, his daughter and son, said: “We have been immensely fortunate to witness first-hand the profound impact Dr Paul Stephenson had on our community and our nation.
“Known for his leadership in the 1963 Bristol Bus Boycott, he was a passionate advocate for equality, tirelessly working to dismantle the barriers of discrimination.”
A train was named in Paul Stephenson’s honour in 2020 – photo: GWR
Born in Essex in 1937, Stephenson was the first Black social worker employed in Bristol.
It was he who spearheaded the Bus Boycott against the Bristol Omnibus Company’s refusal to hire Black or Asian drivers, with the victory paving the way for the UK’s Race Relations Act.
His commitment to equality and social justice earned him numerous accolades including being made an OBE for his services to equal opportunities, and being awarded the freedom of Bristol.
On being awarded a Pride of Britain Award for Lifetime Achievement, his citation said: “Thanks to Paul’s courage, principles, and determination, Britain is a more open and tolerant place today.
“He has changed the way we all live for the better.”
Fumi and Paul Jr said: “Despite the demands of his work, Dad’s love and support for our family never wavered. He encouraged our independence and growth, always striving to ensure that we could forge our paths.
“Dad’s unwavering commitment to improving the lives and experiences of people in our community was truly infectious.
“His tireless work and activism touched the lives of so many, both locally and on a broader national and global scale.
“Beyond his impactful contributions, he cherished long conversations, in particular over a nice glass of white wine, where his warmth, wisdom, and passion for meaningful change always shone through.
“Ultimately, our father’s legacy extends far beyond the awards and accolades he received.
“It is embodied in the lives he touched, the barriers he broke down, and the generations he inspired to fight for a more just and equitable world.
“Our relationship was one of deep respect, understanding, and a shared passion for knowledge and intellectual discourse.
“We are forever grateful and proud to have had him as our father, greatest supporter, inspiration and legend!
“He will be deeply missed, but his spirit and his impact will continue to live on.”
Main photo: Sarah Koury / KoLAB Studios
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