Local 199 mourns a Union Hero

Brothers and Sisters,

It is with deep sadness that I share the news of the passing of Esther Lopez, a long time member and organizer of AFSCME Local 199. Esther lost her battle to cancer yesterday, January 6. She will be sorely missed by all who knew her. 

Ms. Lopez was a Shop Steward at the Miami-Dade Clerk of the Courts and a former full time release representative for Local 199. She helped organize employees and supported the leadership of the Local in our vision to grow power and membership. She was a committed public service worker, a fearless leader who never turned away from any fight, and a dedicated mother of two. Check out this touching tribute written by her daughter for Mother's Day 2020. 

My heart is heavy for this loss.  Esther made a lasting impression on everyone she came in contact with. She cared deeply for her Union Brothers and Sisters and the fight for fairness in the workplace. We need more people like her in this world. She is survived by her two children Kevin and Michelle. 

In Solidarity,

Se'Adoreia Brown, President

AFSCME Local 199