A PLAQUE FOR ASQUITH

RMT helpline 0800 376 3706 :: september/october 2026 :: RMTnews 18 A blue English Heritage plaque has been unveiled at the former Notting Hill home of Asquith Xavier, the rail worker from Dominica who became a leading figure in the fight for racial equality in Britain. Asquith’s daughter Maria Xavier unveiled the plaque in a ceremony outside the house at 149 Ledbury Road. “I am proud of my father and his ‘journey for justice’ and the difference he made for this country,” she said. The National Union of Railwaymen (NUR) member became the first black guard at Euston Station in 1966 after successfully challenging an unofficial colour bar at some railway stations. RMT regional organiser Primrose Jeanton addressed the unveiling on behalf of the union outlining how her predecessor union the NUR stood with Asquith. “It should not be forgotten that my union backed him in his time of need including his branch secretary Jimmy Prendergast, fellow guard Tony Donaghey right up to the general secretary Sid Greene. “This was a perfect example of our motto; unity is strength and the fact that we can make wider changes in society through the actions of ordinary people. “As a woman of Dominican descent and the union’s first black female regional organiser I feel I am carrying on that legacy for future generations. “My union stands for equality across society which still needs to be championed particularly for our member working in the outsourced sector,” he said. Black historian S I Martin also spoke of Asquith’s single- minded fortitude on confronting the issue of discrimination. “When Asquith came to this address it was in the middle of Notting Hill race riots that took place in these streets. So, it took a lot of courage to stand up and fight for the right to work to look after his family. “He has made a mark of our society which we are celebrating today,” he said. Asquith’s granddaughter Camealia Xavier-Chihota also spoke passionately about how ordinary people like her grandfather can do extraordinary things. “This is part of the story how Britain became a multi- racial society,” she said. As well as the blue plaque, Asquith’s story has since been commemorated with plaques at Euston and Chatham stations, and a train has been named in his honour. A PLAQUE FOR ASQUITH English Heritage install plaque at former west London home of Asquith Xavier CELEBRATION: Maria Xavier with RMT members at the unveiling