Tributes paid to race relations campaigner

Tributes have been paid to a "pillar of Bristol's conscience" after the death of race relations stalwart Judah Adunbi.

Mr Adunbi, who was known locally as "Ras Judah", was in his early 70s and died on Friday, reportedly after a short illness.

For decades, he had been a prominent campaigner in Bristol and was also a founding member of an independent group between the police and members of the city's Afro-Caribbean community.

Writing on Facebook, Bristol Black History Month said Mr Adunbi was "more than a campaigner or community elder. He was a pillar of Bristol's conscience".

It added: "He carried both the pain and the pride of our city with unwavering dignity.

"From founding the St Pauls Sports Academy to mentoring generations across Bristol, Ras Judah embodied service. He stood firm so others could stand taller."

In 2017, Mr Adunbi was Tasered by an Avon and Somerset Police officer outside his house in Easton when he was mistaken for a wanted man.

At the time, he confirmed to the two officers who approached him that he was not the suspect they were looking for, but refused to give his name.

After a dispute, he was Tasered by PC Claire Boddie and arrested. Charges for a public order offence and assaulting a police officer were later dropped.

Boddie was cleared of all misconduct charges in 2018 and was found not guilty at a criminal trial. Months later, he was stopped again by police who mistook him for the same wanted man.

In 2023, Mr Adunbi released a documentary called I Am Judah, which explored the incident and broader questions of race relations in Bristol.

In 2009, he won a wrongful arrest case against the force and was awarded compensation, although a Taser was not used in that incident.

Alex Raikes, CEO of Stand Against Racism & Inequality, wrote on social media: "Many of us have stood on your shoulders and wouldn't be where we are without your courage and tenacity.

"So many will miss your contribution, be it sports, anti-racism, mentoring, community development, and also fun and celebration.

"Thank you for all you have done. We will miss your laugh and that look that sees right through any rubbish."

He was also a father, grandfather, and a cricket lover.

Rose Green & Bristol West Indian Phoenix Cricket Club said on Facebook: "Bristol has lost a respected community elder today.

"Rest in power, Ras Judah Adunbi — a true Bristol elder and lifelong fighter for race equality and justice.

"Your courage and voice helped challenge injustice and inspire change."

Bristol community radio station BCfm said: "He was so much to so many of us and a regular on BCfm Radio.

"His strength, courage, integrity and wisdom was an asset to our communities over many years, and we send our heartfelt condolences to all of Ras Juda's family, friends and colleagues across the city and internationally.

It added that they will "celebrate his life on air very soon".

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