August 11, 2006

Michael de Beer '96, 1973-2006

Our regular searches for College news turned up word of the death of Mike de Beer ‘96.

While I’ve noted a few alumni deaths here, until now it hasn’t been anyone I knew, had classes with, shared meals in Valentine with. Mike, who entered with the class of ‘95, was in my English 6 class in my very first semester at Amherst, and we both worked as supervisors in the Academic Computer Center in SMudd. From his bio at the Direct Action and Research Training Center (where Mike attended the Organizers Institute in 2003):

[After graduating with an] interdisciplinary degree in History, Philosophy, and Sociology … he spent several years working with Non-Governmental Organizations in South Africa and England, and directed staff for a non-profit technology organization in San Francisco, California. While working at his last position, Michael became union steward and chief contract negotiator. Through his union activities, he was introduced to the concept of organizing for power and began looking for a career in the field. This led him to seek positions within both union and community organizing. …

“I get very angry at systems of racism, sexism, and vilification of the poor. This comes out of my growing up in a family that worked against apartheid; my uncles were either imprisoned or expelled from South Africa, and my parents left before such could befall them and their children. I can see my values and anger in the choices I have made in my life—what I have done, what I have not done. They are how I chose my college major, why I travel and work in ‘dangerous’ places, why I devote many hours each week to political action and service, and my very identity as a person who is about working for social justice.”

Mike was working most recently as an organizer for Richmonders Involved in Strengthening Communities (RISC) in Richmond, Virginia.

Parker Morse '96 | August 11, 2006 09:24 PM | Alumni

Comments

Ted Gossard | August 12, 2006 05:09 AM:

It is good to hear of Michael's life. And how he acted on his passion for social justice. Rather than just settling down into something, like "the American dream". Thanks.

Heng Meas | May 3, 2007 09:52 PM:

I've just received news of this from a classmate/friend, and am deeply sadden. Mike was a wonderful person, sharing and compassionate in every respect. I got to know Mike in my senior year, and learned a great deal from him in terms of communication, organizing and leading. He always looked for ways to share and care for those around him, and for this, I was truly fortunate and I will miss him very much.

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