Beloved Union Boss Dies at 57
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Source: The New York Daily News
Statement from Governor Andrew Cuomo
"I am beyond heartbroken to learn of the sudden passing of Héctor Figueroa - a towering figure in politics and a hero of the labor community who did untold good for the working people of this state and this nation.
"Héctor was a champion for working people, minorities, the poor, the voiceless.
"Together with Héctor, we enacted New York's nation-leading $15 minimum wage - first for fast food workers and then for all workers - and the historic $19 minimum wage for airport workers just last year. Héctor fought for and won fairer contracts for his 163,000 members, ensuring working women and men have the protections they need at a time when hard-earned labor rights are under attack on the national level. Héctor was an indefatigable force in our fight against Trump's un-American assault on immigrant communities and a fierce defender of Puerto Rico.
"On behalf of the entire New York family, I extend my deepest sympathies to Héctor's wife Deirdre and his two children Eric and Elena, and his extended family at 32BJ.
"Sí, se puede my friend."
Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
"Héctor was a champion for working people, minorities, the poor, the voiceless.
"Together with Héctor, we enacted New York's nation-leading $15 minimum wage - first for fast food workers and then for all workers - and the historic $19 minimum wage for airport workers just last year. Héctor fought for and won fairer contracts for his 163,000 members, ensuring working women and men have the protections they need at a time when hard-earned labor rights are under attack on the national level. Héctor was an indefatigable force in our fight against Trump's un-American assault on immigrant communities and a fierce defender of Puerto Rico.
"On behalf of the entire New York family, I extend my deepest sympathies to Héctor's wife Deirdre and his two children Eric and Elena, and his extended family at 32BJ.
"Sí, se puede my friend."
Source: The Office of Governor Andrew M. Cuomo
Hector Figueroa Accepts 2018 North Star Award
Statement from New York Secretary of State Rossana Rosado
“I am devastated that my longtime friend and colleague Hector Figueroa has passed away. His presence in New York – and his sudden loss – cannot be understated.
“Labor rights were certainly in Hector’s blood, as his parents were active in workers’ rights in the 1970s in Puerto Rico. In 1982, Hector brought his talents to the U.S. and fought tirelessly to protect and expand organized labor. His service at 32BJ SEIU established the union as a powerhouse for workers of all stripes. Over the decades and for millions of New Yorkers, Hector became THE face and voice of the labor movement. He was intrinsic to the state’s fight for fair pay for workers, including the fight for $15. To say he was a giant in the labor movement would be an understatement.
“Beyond labor, Hector was also a passionate and fierce advocate for our immigrant brothers and sisters, and a valiant fighter for equal rights for all. He served on countless boards and task forces on both the City and State level – all with common goals that Hector espoused: improving our communities, expanding and providing greater opportunities for all, and making the world a better place in which to live, work, grow and love.
“Most recently, Hector and I partnered on the New York State Complete Count Commission, working to ensure that every New Yorker – regardless of their status – is counted in the upcoming Census. This service is yet another testament to Hector’s selfless dedication to his fellow man. He understood that we ALL count.
“Hector embodied everything that was great about New York. His embracing of diversity and his passion, his spirit and his willingness to help his neighbors captured the best of who we are.
“This is a sad day for New York, and I grieve with our entire state with Hector’s loss. I offer my sincerest condolences to Hector’s wife Deidre, his children Eric and Elena, and all our friends at 32BJ SEIU.”
Source: The Department of State
“Labor rights were certainly in Hector’s blood, as his parents were active in workers’ rights in the 1970s in Puerto Rico. In 1982, Hector brought his talents to the U.S. and fought tirelessly to protect and expand organized labor. His service at 32BJ SEIU established the union as a powerhouse for workers of all stripes. Over the decades and for millions of New Yorkers, Hector became THE face and voice of the labor movement. He was intrinsic to the state’s fight for fair pay for workers, including the fight for $15. To say he was a giant in the labor movement would be an understatement.
“Beyond labor, Hector was also a passionate and fierce advocate for our immigrant brothers and sisters, and a valiant fighter for equal rights for all. He served on countless boards and task forces on both the City and State level – all with common goals that Hector espoused: improving our communities, expanding and providing greater opportunities for all, and making the world a better place in which to live, work, grow and love.
“Most recently, Hector and I partnered on the New York State Complete Count Commission, working to ensure that every New Yorker – regardless of their status – is counted in the upcoming Census. This service is yet another testament to Hector’s selfless dedication to his fellow man. He understood that we ALL count.
“Hector embodied everything that was great about New York. His embracing of diversity and his passion, his spirit and his willingness to help his neighbors captured the best of who we are.
“This is a sad day for New York, and I grieve with our entire state with Hector’s loss. I offer my sincerest condolences to Hector’s wife Deidre, his children Eric and Elena, and all our friends at 32BJ SEIU.”
Source: The Department of State
The following song, "Un Verano en Nueva York", has been posted in celebration of the legacy and life of Hector Figueroa. May he forever rest in peace.
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