Ramdath Jagessar of Toronto, formerly of Trinidad, died Thursday evening April 20. He was communicating with Dr. Ramesh Gampat, myself and Ashook Ramsaran on how to legally use photos on the internet mere hours before he died suddenly. At the same time, he was also engaging Vassan Ramracha and myself on gun licensing in Trinidad. He felt Indians, who have been targeted for racially inspired attacks, should be armed. He was in support of gun licenses. He was critical of PMs Panday and Kamla for denying Indians gun licenses.
Ram Jagessar was well known by those who were involved in struggle for racial equality in Trinidad. He also gave support for the struggle for racial equality in Guyana. Experiencing anti-Indian racism in Trinidad, Jagessar gave his life combating racial discrimination. He was the pioneer for in the struggle for a holiday for Indian Arrival Day. He was one of the founders of Indian Reform and Revival Association (IRRA). And he was among the pioneers of Indian journalism – Indians in the media. He edited the Guardian newspaper for a period of time before migrating to Canada. He will be sorely missed. Condolence to his wife, children, and extended family.