Tributes paid to much-loved Birmingham councillor who was ‘fierce defender’ of city’s youth
Tributes have been paid to a much-loved Birmingham councillor who was described as a “fierce defender” of the city’s youth.
Kerry Jenkins, who represented Labour in Moseley, died in July following a short illness.
Birmingham Labour called her a “tireless campaigner for social justice, a proud trade unionist, and a dedicated local councillor”.
“Kerry always fought for what was right and used her voice to advocate for a brighter future for young people across Birmingham,” a statement said.
There were more tributes from councillors across the political spectrum at a full council meeting this week.
“Kerry was a force to be reckoned with,” Labour councillor Lisa Trickett said. “A brilliant councillor, comrade, trade unionist, socialist and friend.
“But more than anything else, Kerry was about her family whether as a mum, daughter, grandmother, sister or aunt.
“Her family was her world and there were no limits to what she would do to protect and show them how much they were loved each and every day.”
She said Kerry “commanded total respect” across the council chamber.
“Kerry was on the left before being on the left was fashionable and was always willing to make a stand and speak out for what she believed was right,” Coun Trickett said.
“Whether this was on equal pay, home school transport or the fallacies of some of our budget assumptions, Kerry can be found on the right side of history.”
Her work in her Moseley ward, as well her support of children across the city, was also praised by councillors from opposition parties.
Just last year, Coun Jenkins raised awareness of how the criminal exploitation of Birmingham’s youth was reportedly “becoming more organised and deadly” as part of an inquiry.
Conservative councillor Alex Yip said Coun Jenkins’ contributions to Birmingham “would not be easily forgotten”.
“Kerry gave over a decade of service to this city,” he said, adding she was a “constant presence” in the council chambers, her communities and the lives of many residents.
“She was a passionate advocator and fierce defender of children and young adults, someone who never shied away from holding the council and many of us to account.
“The constant thread was her belief that local government at its very best is about giving a voice to those who might otherwise go unheard.
“That shone through in her words, her actions, her principles.”
Liberal Democrat councillor Izzy Knowles read out heartfelt messages from Moseley residents who spoke about Kerry’s commitment to the community.
“Over many years you worked tirelessly for the people of Moseley – you were always so kind, patient and generous with your time,” one said.
“As Moseley people, we always knew we had a brilliant councillor there, ever ready to help.”
Becoming tearful, Coun Knowles said: “Kerry was an exceptional person, she gave her whole being to her family and to her community.
“It’s a comfort that I know the community will now come together to ensure her legacy of inclusivity, fairness, her fighting spirit and passion for young people will stay in Moseley for decades to come.”
