Public Employee Press

Union mourns Sherwyn A. Britton

DC 37 mourned the loss of White Collar Division Director Sherwyn Britton, who died Aug. 16. She was 59.

“Ms. Britton was a seasoned veteran of DC 37. We are her family and will truly miss her. She was dedicated to our work and proud to be part of our great union.

Sherwyn understood the labor movement well and could always be counted in and counted on to get the job done, no matter how difficult,” said DC 37 Executive Director Lillian Roberts.

Britton joined DC 37 in 1967 as a Claims Examiner for the Health and Security Plan and subsequently worked as a Health and Pensions Counselor, Research Assistant, MELS Legal Assistant, Grievance Rep and Council Rep.

In 1999, after 10 years as assistant director, she became director of the White Collar Division, where she and Assistant Director Mike Riggio worked with 14 locals.

“Every demonstration, every parade, every conference — wherever DC 37 was, Sherwyn was there on the front lines making sure things ran smoothly,” said longtime friend José Sierra, director of the Blue Collar Division. “This union was her life and she was very proud of that.”

Proud of her heritage, Sherwyn Britton was a founding member of the Black History Committee 25 years ago. She helped establish what has become a renowned month-long celebration of the African Diaspora at DC 37, and helped start highlight events such as Family Day and Finale Night.

Britton loved sports and people. “Through her I learned a great deal about the history of DC 37,” said Viviana Tillman, associate administrator of the union’s Education Fund. “We shared many joyful times rooting for the New York Liberty. She touched the lives of many and will be missed by all.”

“Sherwyn shared her love and enthusiasm with everyone,” said DC 37 Education Fund Administrator Barbara Kairson, a friend for over 20 years. “Her commitment to her union family was surpassed only by her commitment to her biological family. Her wonderful stories about her family activities helped me get involved in my own family reunion.”

“She gave the personal commitment and sacrifice that it takes to keep the labor movement going,” said Local 420 staffer Beryl Major. “It would be hard to find a person more dedicated to the labor movement and DC 37 than Sherwyn Britton.”

“Working alongside her was to be in the presence of a great trade unionist,” said Riggio.

— Diane S. Williams.