by Enrique Morones
Long Time Human Rights Leader and San Diegan, Roberto Martinez passed away peacefully and has finally gone home. We will have more details later as to funeral arrangements and other plans. The family is very grateful for all the prayers and support which are still very much needed. His commitment to human rights was a life long commitment from his work with the Catholic Church, Chicano Federation, American Friends Service Committee and finally with Border Angels. Roberto will never be forgotten and as his life and legacy will live on forever.The family continues to be very mucjh in need of financial support for funeral and other costs.
Thanks to all that have supported directly to family, through PIQE, through AFSC or through BORDER ANGELS.
We will keep you advised as to future plans and arrngements. Please respect the families privacy during this challenging time and let us know if you wish to express sympathies or contact family.
You can make donations to to support the Martinez family. The Parent INsitute for Quality Education (PIQE); The American Friends Service Committee. and Border Angels.
PIQE: Send a tax deductible contribution. Make your check out to “PIQE” and mail it to 4010 Morena Blvd. #200, San Diego, CA 92117. In the subject area of the check, write “Roberto Martinez Donation.” They will mail you a receipt with PIQE’s non-profit tax I.D. If you have any questions contact David Valladolid at dvalladolid@piqe.org
Border Angels: Mail your donation to Border Angels, PO Box 86598, San Diego, CA 92138. List Roberto Martinez in Memo. You can also make a donation through paypal at www.borderangels.org. If you have any questions contact Enrique Morones at enriquemorones@cox.net.
American Friends Service Committee. You may send letters, cards, and checks made out to Yolanda Martinez. The address is: AFSC, c/o Roberto Martinez, PO Box 126147, San Diego CA 92112. Contact Pedro Rios directly at prios@afsc.org
CLICK HERE TO READ A 1993 ARTICLE WRITTEN ABOUT ROBERTO MARTINEZ
Barrio’s streets sculpted heart of rights activist
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
Friends,
It is with deep respect and sympathy that we bring you the news of Roberto Martinez’ passing this morning. He passed away peacefully surrounded by his caring wife Yolanda, his children and grand-children. He was 72 years old.
With a soft voice but a relentless spirit, Roberto Martinez spoke truth to power in the face of violence fomented by governmental policies. He exemplified with integrity and compassion the cause in defense of human rights, despite police harassment and death threats; he never succumbed to the pressures of those in power. His determination in advocating for justice, peace and dignity is the legacy that he leaves us and one that we hope to continue.
Today a voice that acted as a beacon of light for the cause of human rights for the borderlands has been silenced, but his spirit and legacy continues.
We stand with Yolanda and the Martinez family in solidarity during this
> irreparable loss for their family and our community. We will update you shortly on future plans and services for Roberto Martinez.
Please direct sympathy cards and donations payable to Yolanda Martinez to Yolanda Martinez
c/o AFSC
PO Box 126147
San Diego, CA 92112
With heavy hearts,
Adriana Jasso
Benjamin Prado
Pedro Ríos
Christian Ramirez
I love my grandpa Roberto Martinez so much and miss him dearly.