New street unveiled in Durban
This modest pedestrianised street links the Cathedral and the Grey Street Mosque and runs alongside the Denis Hurley Centre.
DEPUTY Mayor of eThekwini, Belinda Scott, unveiled Paddy Kearney Way in central Durban on Saturday.
This modest pedestrianised street links the Cathedral and the Grey Street Mosque and runs alongside the Denis Hurley Centre. Social justice activist Paddy Kearney was linked to all three of these institutions until his untimely death a year ago on 23 November.
It was the unanimous decision of the local community and all the political parties on City Council that Paddy be honoured in this fashion. Councillor Scott praised him for having been a mentor to so many activists.
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She spoke from the heart when she said: “For me personally, whenever I feel overburdened or defeated, I am going to walk down Paddy Kearney Way, to replenish my conviction and renew my strength from the memories of the incredible sacrifices of this one man – because mine are so small and insignificant in comparison.”
The fact that the street is filled with homeless people waiting for meals at the Denis Hurley Centre, worshippers attending the mosque or the Cathedral, foreign nationals seeking services, or shoppers visiting the local markets was indicative of the way in which Paddy, in his life, brought together so many types of people. Scott stressed that all are citizens of Durban and had the right to be respected.
PHOTO: Rev Andrew Warmback
Raymond Perrier, Director of the Denis Hurley Centre, spoke of the importance of continuing the legacy of Paddy Kearney, who in turn was carrying on the mission of his great mentor, Arcbishop Denis Hurley. For that reason, a Paddy Kearney Legacy Fund was being launched to encourage Durbanites to make a pledge to the Centre in their wills and so ensure that its work for the poor became a part of their own legacy. Paddy personally started the fund, leaving a substantial bequest in his own will.
Perrier said he felt sure that it would succeed.
Speaking about the unveiling of the street, Perrier said: “We were keen to name this Paddy Kearney Way – because one thing was always true about Paddy – he always got his own way!”
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