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Willie A. Perry,
the former president of the local Oneonta branch of the National Association for
the Advancement of Colored People, was many things to many people. He is
remembered as a man with a fervor for life and for fighting injustice.
He was a police officer and detective in New York City and after retirement, he
became a civic leader in Delaware and Otsego counties.
Whether it was
looking into whether local stores were stocking enough "ethnic products", or
sponsoring forums on racial unity or even fighting for his right to ride a horse
in the Memorial Day parade, Perry would not settle for being patronized or
placated.
Thanks in large part to Perry's willingness to work with local
clergy and other civic leaders to forge greater understanding and communication,
our community is a better place in which to live.
The best way to honor
Perry's memory, of course, is for all of us of every color to speak out as he
would have in the face of intolerance and injustice.
To do that will not
always make us popular and will undoubtedly make some people uncomfortable.
Willie A. Perry would have no problem with that, and we shouldn't either.
- Oneonta Daily Star,
11-15-99, 11-19-99
This memorial is to honor and commemorate
Mr. Willie A. Perry as
an outstanding individual who made a significant
impact and important contribution to this community. To preserve his legacy,
give inspiration and continued understanding of the contributions made by
"Mr. Willie A. Perry."
Mr. George M. Sands
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