A Tribute to Mervyn Dymally

Mervyn M. Dymally was a pioneering leader whose life was marked by unwavering dedication to public service, justice, and the unity of humanity. Born in Cedros, Trinidad and Tobago, he made his home in the United States, where he broke barriers as one of the first persons of Dougla (mixed African and Indian) origin to serve in Congress. His journey exemplifies resilience, faith, and a deep commitment to uplifting his community and advocating for global and regional issues.

Throughout his political career, Dymally demonstrated remarkable resilience and conviction. He was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives, winning his primary with 49% of the vote amid stiff competition, and defeating Republican Don Grimshaw in the general election with 64% of the vote. Despite facing reprimand from colleagues over financial misconduct during the Koreagate scandal—which tested his integrity—he continued to serve with dedication, driven by his core beliefs.

A passionate advocate for Caribbean interests, Dymally was a founding member of the Caribbean South American Hispanic Council (BIRN). In this role, he fought tirelessly alongside leaders like Basdeo Panday to help him become Prime Minister of Trinidad and Tobago, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to regional unity and empowerment. His leadership extended to regional affairs, and in 1983, he joined with seven other U.S. representatives to sponsor a resolution to impeach President Ronald Reagan over the invasion of Grenada, reflecting his dedication to Caribbean sovereignty and regional justice. Later, in the 1990s, he served as a paid lobbyist for Mauritania, working to promote the country’s efforts in abolishing slavery and improving its international standing.

Beyond his national and regional impact, Dymally believed deeply in the spiritual unity of all people. He held that everyone is a child of the Supreme God, and that the soul has no color or gender. He believed that we are all one in the universe, interconnected by a divine essence that transcends superficial differences. This spiritual philosophy fueled his compassion, his fight for equality, and his vision of a harmonious world where all beings are valued and respected.

After retiring from Congress in 1992, Dymally returned to public service by re-entering the California State Assembly in 2002, serving for six years. At age 82, he sought to return to the State Senate in 2008 but was defeated in the primary. His lifelong dedication to service exemplifies his belief in continuous growth and contribution.

Mervyn Dymally passed away in Los Angeles and is buried at Holy Cross Cemetery in Culver City. His legacy lives on through his groundbreaking achievements, his advocacy, and his spiritual teachings.

In recognition of his enduring influence, the Mervyn M. Dymally High School in South Central Los Angeles, part of the Los Angeles Unified School District, bears his name—standing as a testament to his commitment to education, community, and empowerment.

His life reminds us that we are all children of the divine, interconnected beyond race, gender, or nationality, and that unity and love are the true paths to progress.