It is with a heavy heart that the Equality and Inclusion Partnership share the passing of our esteemed Chair, Dr James Shera MBE.
The loss of James is deeply felt, and it is challenging to capture the profound impact he had on promoting equality and fairness throughout his life. His unwavering commitment to fostering respect and positive relations among many communities and faiths, leaves a lasting and profound mark on our organisation.
We take pride in having had James as our Chair through the transformative journey from the Rugby Racial Equality Council to Warwickshire Race Equality Partnership and our evolution into EQuIP, the Equality and Inclusion Partnership.
Despite facing the challenges of Parkinson's disease for over a decade, James maintained an unparalleled dedication to EQuIP, fulfilling his duties as Chair and going above and beyond.
His commitment to so many was absolute and lifelong. He had such a positive impact on so many and we at EQuIP were so lucky to have him as our leader.
Many in Rugby, Warwickshire and further afield will know of his work, he was a dedicated champion of equality, fairness and inclusion. His support for all communities in Warwickshire regardless of faith or race was unlimited and there are many examples of the difference he made. A pioneer in so many ways, he has also left a lasting legacy in the fields of education, community cohesion, access to healthcare and promoting equality and fairness for all.
James was not only a remarkable leader but also a great man, a dear friend, and an inspiring mentor. His absence will be keenly felt by many who had the privilege of knowing and working alongside him.
Our deepest condolences to his family and many many friends.
