On learning of the passing of Mr. Ira Philip, MBE, JP, Premier the Hon. David Burt, JP, MP, stated:
“Through his pen came knowledge and empowerment as he shone a light on the full history of Bermuda. He courageously recorded the struggle of black Bermudians to build a society and institutions to improve their lives and those of their descendants. Ira Philip’s columns, commentaries and books have schooled generations of Bermudians and through his writings we have come to know our story, told in a unique voice. From his journalistic beginnings with the Bermuda Recorder newspaper, Ira Philip went on to dominate broadcasting as well as a reporter with station ZFB. His career of public service spanned several decades and as we reflect on his life’s work, his contribution has undoubtedly enriched the fabric of Bermuda. On behalf of the Government and people of Bermuda I share our heartfelt thoughts and prayers with his family as they mourn the loss of this patriarch. Describing the importance of the Bermuda Recorder, Ira Philip essentially penned his own epitaph in words which, with little paraphrasing, easily apply to him: ‘(He) developed a personality and a soul that gave dignity and opportunity to the black people of Bermuda that was not forthcoming from other sources. (He) celebrated their achievements, mourned their losses, defended their rights and articulated their needs.’”