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Islington Tribune - by SIMON WROE
Published:19 December 2008

Mary Rosser and Glenn Smith by the new Paul Robeson tribute

Robeson was here: Tribute to civil rights activist

HISTORIANS and trade union leaders celebrated 75 years of London’s library of the Left with the unveiling of a tribute to the actor and activist Paul Robeson.
The “inspirational character” of Mr Robeson, who campaigned for civil rights across the globe, was commemorated in a framed picture and plaque at The Marx Memorial Library in Clerkenwell Green. Mr Robeson addressed a union congress during his trip to Britain in 1949 and dedicated books to the library.
Library chairwoman Mary Rosser said: “He spoke about the need for people of all colours and races to unite against a common enemy.
“He’s an inspiring character of the movement and those who use it and support it.”
Dr John Callow, director of the archives at the library, added that Marxism was in the ascendency once more as the economic downturn continues.
He said: “Marx’s message has universal appeal. He was once seen as a figure of fun – now the world is beginning to look at him a little differently.
“The market was supposed to do everything and it’s becoming increasingly clear that the market can’t.”

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