Funeral services announced for minority business advocate and attorney Anthony ‘Tony’ Robinson

By AFRO Staff

Anthony “Tony” W. Robinson, a civil rights attorney and staunch supporter of minority businesses has died. He was 76.

Family, friends, former colleagues and well-wishers will gather Aug. 11 and Aug. 12 to celebrate his life. A public viewing will be held on Aug 11 from 4-7 p.m. at March Funeral Home on the 4300 block of Wabash Avenue in Baltimore. And, funeral services will follow the next day beginning at 10 a.m. at Empowerment Temple on the 4200 block of Primrose Avenue.

Robinson, a graduate of Morgan State University, was known for his role in establishing and expanding the Minority Business Enterprise Legal Defense and Education Fund. Founded in 1980 by Baltimore icon Parren J. Mitchell, another Morgan State grad, the organization acts as a legal watchdog group for minority business enterprises and minority entrepreneurs in the legislative, executive and judicial branches at the federal, state and local levels. Mitchell brought on Robinson, a civil rights lawyer, in 1983 to act as the MBELDEF’s first full-time president, a position he served in for four decades. Robinson is credited with guiding the institution through tumultuous times and helping to boost and sustain minority business enterprise programs at all levels.

“We are deeply saddened by the sudden passing of Anthony “Tony” W. Robinson, a trailblazer, civil rights advocate, and longtime supporter of minority businesses. As MBELDEF’s first full-time president and a dedicated board member, Tony’s work touched countless lives, often behind the scenes and always with heart,” the National Minority Supplier Development Council said in a statement posted on Instagram.

“His legacy is one of quiet strength, deep compassion, and unwavering commitment to justice,” the statement continued. “Rest in peace, Tony. Your impact will never be forgotten.”