Roberto Maestas, a lifelong civil rights leader and founder of El Centro de la Raza, died this morning. In his passing, Seattle has lost a great leader who devoted his life to improving the community and to lifting up the needs of those who could not speak or fight for themselves. Roberto fought for the rights and dignity of all, no matter the personal cost. The Seattle Police Department has also lost a valiant and well respected friend who could always be counted on to offer his wisdom and provide guidance as we confronted challenges. In addition to being a friend of the Department, Roberto was a personal friend and mentor to Police Chief John Diaz. In noting Mr. Maestas’ death, Chief Diaz noted, “Roberto was a champion, working to ensure that all people were treated with respect and accorded the human dignity to which they are entitled. He was not afraid to challenge me or the police department to make sure that we placed the community in the forefront. I will miss him greatly.”