[Congressional Record Volume 157, Number 19 (Tuesday, February 8, 2011)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E159]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




              HONORING ELDER BERRESFORD ``BERRY'' BINGHAM

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. BARBARA LEE

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, February 8, 2011

  Ms. LEE of California. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor the 
extraordinary life of Elder Berresford ``Berry'' Bingham, the political 
director of Service Employees International Union, SEIU, Local 1021. A 
devoted community member and the first African American elected to the 
Alameda School Board, Mr. Bingham was a beloved father, grandfather, 
friend and colleague. Berry Bingham was taken from us too soon, on 
January 25, 2011 at the age of 64. Today, let us find comfort in the 
joy his life inspired. He was a talented, kind and spiritual man who 
touched countless lives throughout the Bay Area and beyond.
  Berry Bingham was born in Montego Bay, Jamaica, and moved with his 
family to the United States at the age of 12. After high school and a 
brief stint in college, Mr. Bingham enlisted in the U.S. Navy and began 
a two-decade naval career. After retirement from the service in 1994, 
Mr. Bingham became increasingly interested in local schools in Alameda. 
That very same year, he became the first African American ever elected 
to the Alameda School Board. During his tenure from 1994 to 2002 he was 
known as a patient and steadfast advocate for children from all walks 
of life.
  He was passionate about ensuring equal education opportunities for 
underserved children, and he was a candid proponent for diversity in 
schools throughout the west and east ends of Alameda. Even after he 
joined Local 616, which became SEIU Local 1021, Mr. Bingham kept 
children's interests as a priority, often traveling to Stockton to 
develop a Head Start campaign. For over 17 years, Mr. Bingham utilized 
his skill as a professional worker's advocate to fortify the union's 
ties with community organizations. In his role as Community Strength 
Coordinator, Mr. Bingham worked to represent public workers, including 
those in the city of Oakland, Alameda County, and employees of BART. He 
was also passionate about advocating for home care workers.
  In addition to being a delegate of the Central Labor Council and a 
stalwart leader in the labor community, Mr. Bingham served as a Deacon 
and Elder of his church. Often called the ``neighborhood dad,'' Mr. 
Bingham was immensely proud of the accomplishments of his three adult 
children, Kenya, Jovon and Brian, from his union with former wife, 
Kathy Bingham. The amicably divorced couple had recently become proud 
grandparents.
  On a personal level, I was proud to call Berry not only my friend and 
colleague, but my brother. I met him in the early 90s. Berry was a 
consistent supporter and worker in my political efforts, and he was 
also a confidant who always ``watched my back.'' For that, I am deeply 
grateful.
  Today, California's 9th Congressional District salutes and honors an 
outstanding human being, Elder Berresford ``Berry'' Bingham. The 
contributions he made to others throughout his life are countless and 
precious. Mr. Bingham was a dear friend and he will be deeply missed by 
an extended group of loved ones. Although these days are difficult, I 
pray that our fond memories of Berry will bring us comfort and strength 
as we celebrate his life and legacy. May his soul rest in peace.

                          ____________________