Tributes are pouring in for Ropert McKenzie from Gloucester who has passed away.
Ropert’s contribution to his community commenced at the age of 11. In 1967, Ropert became the first black boy to be accepted at Sir Thomas Rich’s Grammar School.
He was instrumental in the formation of a ‘Black Arts’ group called ‘Trinity Culture’ in 1975. As there was nothing in the city relating to cultural art, the group created exhibitions of African Art. The importance of Ropert’s role in raising awareness of this Artwork was recognised by Courtyard Art’s Trust in 1982. Ropert was appointed their Ethnic Minority Liasion Officer in Gloucester Docks.
He was an advocate for black rights on a wide variety of committees in Gloucester and founder member of The Law Society.
In the late 80s, he worked as a Youth Arts Worker at Colwell Arts Centre. Ropert and Leroy Fable established ‘AKOMA Arts’ in 1993. They went on to represent the British Council on a Cultural Exchange visit to Malta.
Ropert continued to work as a youth worker for various groups and organisations as well delivering cultural sessions in schools around the city.
You can listen to an interview with Ropert giving his lifestory to GFM Gloucester FM.
Friends have been paying tribute to Ropert on Facebook. Daniel Cunninham wrote: “Ropert was an important part of my youth and one of the men that inspired me to get involved with youth work in my younger days! A great man of many talents and a legend in the community.”
Anna Buckland said: “It is incredibly difficult to write this without disolving into tears. Our lovely Roobear (Ropert,Roots Marley) has peacefully departed today for the ‘Multiverse’, playing Reggae, regaling African Stories and painting up a cultural storm! Those of you who loved this very special man who inspired several generations of young people and gave graciously of his many talents to many Communities in Gloucester will be heartened to hear that his life and works will be celebrated in our Cathedral, a fitting tribute to his integrity, beliefs and vocation.”