FROM CAMBRIDGE & DISTRICT TRADES COUNCIL
Our dearest friend, comrade and sister, Jo Robbins passed away July 11th 2020 after a long and courageous battle against cancer. She was a socialist who worked tirelessly for equality, peace and justice. For as long as many of us can remember Jo has been present as an activist on the left in Cambridge unstintingly supporting all manner of campaigns and actions, particularly working hard for decent housing for all, anti-war, anti-racism and feminist causes. Whether it was the latest campaign she was devoted to as a Unite Community member or responding to a call out for attendance and solidarity from others she could be relied upon to be there, arriving stylishly on her latest cool bike with a smile that could brighten up the dullest of days. Jo will be sorely missed, but she has left a lasting legacy through her love, determination and positive action to make the world a better place for all.
Jill Eastland – EC Member, Peter Monaghan – Co-Chair
On behalf of Cambridge Trades Council
STATEMENTS FROM UNITE COMMUNITY Tuesday 14 July 2020
“On Saturday July 11 we lost a great comrade, sister, socialist, trade-unionist and feminist, Jo Robbins” Jo was a valued founder member and organiser for Unite Community. I had only met Jo a few times in the past 3 years . She encouraged me in the branch, which lacked at the time women’s participation. She was comradely, kind and approachable, qualities which I will remember.
On behalf of Unite Community Cambridge, we pay tribute to Jo and extend our most sincere condolences to James and everyone mourning the loss of our sister, and comrade. Solidarity and Peace always.
May Shafi Chair
“Jo & James Youd, were a united strength of force. When they were told Jo had cancer, we were all so shocked but watched with admiration how James stepped up the fight. Jo fought with everything and James fought at her side the whole time. We are so sad to announce Jo passed away but she did so, wrapped in James’ arms and love. James, we love you and we are here for you. Rest in peace and power, Jo”
(Dan & Carla friends of Jo and James)
Our sympathy goes out to her partner, James Youd, her comrade in arms.
Message From James –
“Thanks to David Maher, Mark and Alex Collis for organising Jo Robbins funeral next week. So it will begin at 2.30pm at the Church of the Good Shepherd Arbury on Monday 27th July then over to the Cambridge Crematorium for 4pm where Alex will give the committal. Those of you I have already invited are the limited 30 who can come into the church itself. There will also be room for around the same number to sit in the church garden during the service and a pa will broadcast the service which you will be able to watch on zoom too. There is limited capacity for both and the wake at the Haymakers will also be limited to 30 people but some have said they won’t make that which allows others to come instead. Please message me if you wish to sit outside and I will try and accommodate you. My force of nature will get the send off she deserves!”
For those who wish to watch the service online
Please click the link below to join the webinar:
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87968641860?pwd=SmhTNUtCVmhQTnMzYVFxV1pzTEFWUT09
Passcode: 880553
