Padilla Statement on the Passing of Gloria Molina
LOS ANGELES, CA — U.S. Senator Alex Padilla (D-Calif.) released the following statement after the passing of former Los Angeles County Supervisor Gloria Molina:
“For countless women, Latinos, and young people, there’s been no better champion or role model in California politics than Gloria Molina. She dedicated her life to public service, entering political office during a time when few women or Latinos held top roles in public office. Gloria broke barriers as the first Latina elected to the California State Assembly, the Los Angeles City Council, and the Los Angeles County Board of Supervisors and she was never, ever one to shy away from a tough fight.
“The daughter of working-class parents, Gloria fought tooth and nail for working class communities across Los Angeles. She was an unrelenting champion for disadvantaged communities in the halls of power at the local, state, and federal levels. From helping to build more affordable housing to fighting to expand public transportation, Gloria was a tireless advocate for Los Angeles’ Eastside. Each time we speak out today against the status quo and demand better from our government and our political leaders, we take a page from Gloria’s playbook—and California takes a step forward.
“I’ll be forever grateful for her steadfast leadership and commitment to improving the lives of all Angelenos. Angela and I send our condolences to Gloria’s family during this difficult time.”
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