Edward R. Roybal: The Legacy of a New Deal Democrat
In Political Affairs, a Chicano Marxist, Rosalio Muñoz, offers his perspective on the passing of Congressman Edward R. Roybal:
In these days when we face the vicious far right politics of Bush and Schwarzenegger, we need to keep in mind the correlation of the organization grassroots based coalition and the ability of progressive politicians to make principled stands. Ed Roybal’s career in politics is an important model of one style of such correlation. Latino and progressive activists and politicians have much to learn from his contributions.
I never had the honor of meeting Congressman Roybal, but people who mean the world to me - Congressman Xavier Becerra, Henry Lozano, Laura Arciniega and, most of all, my wife, Araceli Ruano - have always had nothing but the kindest, warmest and most respectful words for him. I’m sorry I never had the chance to learn from him.
As reported in the LA Times, “A vigil will be held Sunday at 7 p.m. at the Resurrection Church, 3324 Opal St., Los Angeles. Funeral services will be held Monday at 9 a.m. at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels, 555 W. Temple St., Los Angeles.”
