“Hector Figueroa was a giant in New York State and served as a national leader for millions of Americans. As President of 32BJ SEIU, Hector was on the front lines in the fight for fair pay, good benefits, and safe working conditions for his union brothers and sisters and for all hardworking Americans. Hector also stood up for progressive values and used his position to advocate for immigrant rights, environmental protection, expanded voting rights, and racial, social and economic justice. Hector Figueroa was more than a political ally, he was a dear friend, and I am deeply saddened by his untimely passing. My thoughts are with his family, especially his wife Deidre and his children, Eric and Elena, and all those who loved Hector. I hope that his memory will be a blessing and inspiration for us all to continue his work building a better state and nation.”