Commissioner Monestime’s statement on the passing of Congressman Alcee Hastings

MIAMI-DADE – Miami-Dade County Commissioner Jean Monestime issues a statement on the passing of Congressman Alcee Hastings:

“I offer my deepest condolences to the Hastings family for the passing of Congressman Alcee Hastings. Congressman Hastings selflessly dedicated his life to serving the people of South Florida as well as the nation.

He was a champion for the rights of minorities, women, the elderly, children and immigrants. For Haitian immigrants, especially, he has given his steadfast support to our causes and has been a true advocate on behalf of our community. He urged President Obama—'by simply the stroke of a pen'—to allow Haitians already in this country to remain and work here legally to send money to their impoverished families.

He urged lawmakers to grant Temporary Protected Status to undocumented Haitians so they are not deported to their storm-ravaged and politically unstable homeland.

It is no doubt our community has lost one of its closest allies in Washington, D.C. To the Hastings family, our thoughts and prayers are with you and know that Congressman Hastings has left an indelible mark on this community that will never be forgotten.”