Waterside worker and long time Aboriginal activist Charles "Chicka" Dixon has died in Sydney aged 81 - struck down by asbestos he contracted working on the wharves.
Chicka Dixon Aboriginal of the Year, tent embassy activist, builders labourer, wharfie, university lecturer, recovered alcoholic, and former chair of the Aboriginal Arts Board - a man who has represented his people around the world, studied with the Canadian Native Americans, done a bit of gaol, been mate with prime ministers Gough Whitlam and Bob Hawke and addressed 10,000 Chinese in the Great Hall of the People - has died.
MUA National Secretary Paddy Crumlin paid tribute to Chicka Dixon's as political and labour warrior.
"The MUA adds their sympathies and condolences to the many voices in our national and the international labour movement on Chicka's passing," he said. "A man of character, substance and unwavering courage he reflected the finer traits Australians aspire to and seek after for a society that is decent inclusive and fair to all.
"Chicka was a worker, leader and activist who was determined to turn around racism and elitism and gain proper recognition for the extraordinary culture and character of his people and the great injustice done to them.
"His asbestosis related death brings into even clearer focus this great injustice to working men and women in this country and the long campaign led by the MUA in many ways to find remedy and restitution.
"Our membership officials and staff in particular farewell one of our own. Vale comrade."
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