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AP18:038

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
March 10, 2018
CONTACT:
SOS Press Office
(916) 653-6575

Secretary of State Alex Padilla on the Passing of Voting Rights Champion Joaquin G. Avila

SACRAMENTO – California Secretary of State Alex Padilla released the following statement after learning of the passing of voting rights icon Joaquin G. Avila. 

“Today, we mourn the passing of Joaquin G. Avila, a 'lion of voting rights' and beloved friend and mentor to so many. 

"Joaquin’s passion for voting rights equality and his tireless efforts in the courtroom to empower local communities of color were only matched by his commitment to inspire and mentor countless students, new attorneys and colleagues. 

"I first met Joaquin when I was an undergraduate at MIT. I became an early admirer of his work and civil rights advocacy then, and his influence is felt in the work we do in the Secretary of State's office today.

"Joaquin has left an enduring impact on voting rights jurisprudence. As the driving force and architect of the California Voting Rights Act, his legacy continues to change the lives of millions of people previously silenced in our electoral democracy. Angela and I send our deepest condolences to Joaquin's family and everyone inspired by his life's work."

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