Tributes, published in The Guardian, to the life and work of Northern Ireland politician, John Hume, whose death was announced on 3rd August, 2020 reveal the qualities of someone with “an unshakeable commitment to non-violence, persistence, kindness and love”.

“Celebrating community in all its diversity went to the heart of John’s political ethos.” (Henry McDonald)

He had “the courage to take real risks for peace, built on an alternative to violence”.

Micheál Martin, the Irish taoiseach said: “Throughout his long life he exhibited not just courage, but also fortitude, creativity and an utter conviction that democracy and human rights must define any modern society.”

John Hume kept Hope alive throughout the Northern Ireland Peace Process “with Patience, Resilience and Unswerving Commitment” “he steered the community from grievance to governance”.

His role drove “the peace process, forever shuttling, listening, reassuring, explaining and persuading”.  (Quoted by Rory Carroll)

“The favourite word he liked about himself was ‘stickability’; his commitment never wavered”.