Cleveland Robinson facts for kids
Quick facts for kids
Cleve Robinson
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In front of 170 W 130 St., March on Washington, Bayard Rustin, Deputy Director, and Cleveland Robinson, Chairman of Administrative Committee (left to right). World Telegram & Sun photo by O. Fernandez. (Library of Congress's Prints and Photographs division)
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| Born | December 12, 1914 Swabys Hope, Jamaica
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| Died | August 23, 1995 (aged 80) New York City, U.S.
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| Nationality | American |
| Occupation | Labor organizer |
| Known for | March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom |
Cleveland Lowellyn "Cleve" Robinson (December 12, 1914 – August 23, 1995) was an important American leader. He was born in Jamaica. Cleve Robinson worked as a labor organizer and a civil rights activist. He helped organize the famous 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. He was the Chairman of the Administrative Committee for this historic event.
Contents
Cleve Robinson's Life Story
Early Life and Moving to America
Cleveland Robinson was born on December 12, 1914, in Swabys Hope, Manchester Parish, Jamaica. He worked as a local police officer and an elementary school teacher there. In 1944, he moved to the United States.
When he arrived in the U.S., he got a job in a dry goods store in Manhattan. Soon after, he became very active in a group called District 65.
Becoming a Union Leader
In 1947, Cleve Robinson owned his own shop. He then became a leader, or "steward," for his union. Later, he became a full-time organizer for the union.
- In 1950, he was elected vice-president.
- In 1952, he became the secretary-treasurer.
- He held this important position until he retired in 1992.
A union is a group of workers who join together. They work to improve their pay, working conditions, and rights. Cleve Robinson helped many workers through his union efforts.
Fighting for Civil Rights
Cleve Robinson was a strong supporter of the civil rights movement. This movement worked to end unfair treatment and gain equal rights for all people.
- In 1957, he took part in the Prayer Pilgrimage for Freedom. This was an early march for civil rights.
- He was a main organizer and chairman of the August 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. This huge march brought many people together to demand equal rights and jobs.
- In September 1972, he helped start the Coalition of Black Trade Unionists (CBTU). This group continued the fight for fair treatment for Black workers. He served as its first vice-president.
Living with Blindness
For many years, Robinson had an eye condition called glaucoma. By 1970, he was legally blind. But this did not stop him! He continued his important work with the same energy and dedication.
He always remembered his Jamaican roots. He often visited Jamaica and stayed involved with Jamaican-American groups.
Cleve Robinson passed away in New York City in August 1995. He died from kidney failure.
Family Life
Cleve Robinson's first wife was Sue Eliza Robinson. They had two sons and one daughter together. After Sue Eliza passed away in 1976, he married Doreen McPherson Robinson.
