All4Ed Statement on the Passing of Representative Raúl Grijalva
March 14, 2025
Contact: Enrique A. Chaurand
Email: echaurand@all4ed.org
“It is with profound sadness that we mourn the passing of Representative Raúl Grijalva, a tireless champion of working families, immigrants, and Native peoples across the nation, and in his home state of Arizona. His death leaves an immeasurable void in our hearts and in the halls of Congress where his powerful voice has resonated for decades.
“Representative Grijalva was more than a lawmaker – he was a visionary leader whose steadfast commitment to justice and equity transformed countless lives. The son of a migrant farmer, his first elected position was as a school board member of Tucson Unified School District and his dedication to education remained unshakable till the end. Throughout his distinguished career, he stood as a beacon of hope for the marginalized and underserved, fighting relentlessly to ensure that everyone in our nation has access to opportunity and dignity.
“This loss feels especially poignant during March, which Rep. Grijalva helped establish as National Middle Level Education month. All4Ed has been honored to partner with him and endorse his groundbreaking Success in the Middle Act, legislation that embodied his deep understanding that educational equity is the foundation of a just society.
“In this difficult moment, each of us should follow Representative Grijalva’s extraordinary example of courage, compassion, and unwavering advocacy. We can honor his legacy by continuing his vital work and passing legislation he championed with such conviction – the Reaching English Learners Act, the FLUENT Act, the SYLLABLE Act, the Right to Read Act, and countless others.
“These bills reflect Representative Grijalva’s profound commitment to ensuring every child – regardless of background, language or circumstance – receives a quality education that empowers them to reach their full potential.
“As we reflect on Representative Grijalva’s remarkable life and contributions, we recommit ourselves to advancing the causes he held dear. Though his voice has been silenced, his vision for a more equitable and just America lives on through all who were inspired by his leadership.
“Our deepest condolences go out to Representative Grijalva’s family, friends, staff, constituents, and all who were touched by his extraordinary life of service. We are forever grateful for his leadership, his courage, and his unwavering dedication to building a better world for us all.”
###
