NALEO Remembers the Life and Service of Congressman Esteban Torres

WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials (NALEO) is deeply saddened by the passing of Congressman Esteban Torres and issued the following statement from President Ricardo Lara in honor of his legacy: “Congressman Esteban Torres was an esteemed statesman and longtime friend of NALEO. His work was profoundly influential in the nation and Latino community, and he helped pave the way for many Latinos to serve as public officials — himself being one of the most prolific in American history. “Congressman Torres served eight consecutive terms in the U.S. House of Representatives, representing California’s 34th Congressional District (1983–1999). During his tenure, he served as the Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Caucus (1987–1989) and was a member of the House Appropriations Committee (1993–1995). Prior to joining Congress, he was appointed in 1977 by President Jimmy Carter to be the U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). He also served as White House Special Assistant for Hispanic Affairs under President Carter from 1979 to January 1981. “Recognizing his service and commitment to the Latino community and beyond, Congressman Torres was presented with NALEO’s Edward R. Roybal Award for Outstanding Public Service in 1998, shortly before his retirement from the House in 1999. “Congressman Torres was also a passionate and accomplished artist — particularly through sculpture and painting — with elements of his policy work and Latino life and culture reflected in many of his pieces. One of his watercolors of the U.S. Capitol hangs in the office of NALEO’s Chief Executive Officer, a gift from the Congressman. “Throughout his illustrious career, Congressman Torres was well-known as someone who approached others with respect and dignity. In his passing, we will first and foremost remember him for his example as a model public servant. “NALEO sends our condolences to the family and loved ones of Congressman Torres. His memory will forever be honored by the nation and constituents he served.”

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About NALEO The National Association of Latino Elected and Appointed Officials is the non-partisan leadership organization of the nation’s more than 7,000 Latino elected and appointed officials.

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