Statement by US Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis on death of Mario Guerra Obledo

WASHINGTON – Secretary of Labor Hilda L. Solis today issued the following statement on the death of Dr. Mario Guerra Obledo:

"I offer my heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Dr. Mario Guerra Obledo, the 'godfather of the Latino movement,' who I had the pleasure of knowing from my work in California as a state legislator. His uncompromising defense of the Latino community opened many doors of employment, representation and opportunities for me and many colleagues.

"As a trailblazer, Dr. Obledo applied his love for law and civil rights to encourage others in the Latino community to get involved in California's state government, which he referred to as his 'greatest life-long accomplishment.' As a civil rights leader for more than 50 years, he produced an enduring legacy and a generation of Americans grateful for his service to our country."

"I give my deepest condolences to his wife, Keda Alcala-Obledo, and the rest of his family."

• Read this news release en Espa ol.