RIP Maxine James,

I don’t think there was ever a time when we met that we were not in conflict. You were from the Labour Right and, I of the Left. It’s a sad indictment of politics that it can be so tribal that our common humanity can be neglected. You were committed to what you believed in. You took leadership roles, gave up your time and fought your corner. Like me, you wanted to see social changes, progress and greater equalities. One assumes in the heat of battles that people will always be around. You, Maxine, were far from done. You’ve left the stage too young and that is a loss to us all. I met your daughter a couple of times and though I didn’t say it, I was really impressed with her rush to defend her mum who she saw as under attack by me. She was measured, articulate and just like her mum ready to stand her ground. Clearly, you’ve done a great job there. My condolences to your family. Rest in peace knowing you played your full part on behalf of others, as well as, for yourself.

Marlene