Cleston Taylor

Cleston Taylor (1926–2010) was a communist and Black civil rights activist, political prisoner, and trade unionist, who was most notable for his activities in Jamaica and the United Kingdom. Taylor was also a founding member of the British organisation Caribbean Labour Solidarity, and a member of the Communist Party of Great Britain. He held close personal connections with many leading Black British and Caribbean civil rights leaders such as Billy Strachan, Trevor Carter, Richard Hart, and Claudia Jones.

Early life Taylor was born in the year 1926 in the Jamaican parish of Saint Catherine. Recalling his friendship with Strachan, Taylor claimed that Strachan would visit local cinemas and would stand on the stage and denounce the movie to the audience if the film showed a racist scene.

Taylor became a member of the CPGB's West Indian Committee, alongside famous black civil rights figures, among them Claudia Jones and her cousin Trevor Carter.

Trade Union activity Upon his arrival to Britain, Taylor joined the Amalgamated Society of Woodworkers (ASW) and began working on construction sites throughout the United Kingdom.

Death Taylor died in 2010.