Jose Lopez's story is one of resilience, service, and unwavering dedication to his com-munity. Born and educated in Puerto Rico, he came to New York City in 1949, shortly after graduating from high school. From the very beginning, he made it his life's mission to uplift others - offering a helping hand wherever it was needed.

His professional journey began at Keg-O Products Corporation in the lamp and shade di-vision. There, he joined Local #3 of the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, where the seed was planted for a lifelong commitment to the labor movement.

In 1950, Jose enlisted in the U.S. Army and served with honor in Korea as a platoon ser-geant. He was a proud member of the renowned 103rd Battalion, 65th Infantry Regiment
"Borinqueneers," the only Latino-segregated combat unit in the U.S. Army. His bravery earned him a Purple Heart.

After his military service, Jose returned to New York and re-entered the electrical in-dustry, becoming a shop steward in the BAL Division of Local #3. His leadership quickly grew - he served on the Negotiating, Advisory, and Pension Committees - and in 1958, he participated in a historic labor study tour of Puerto Rico. Inspired by this experience, he co-founded the Santiago Iglesias Educational Society of Local #3, later serving as its president for many years.

In 1967, he helped establish the Santiago Iglesias Credit Union, acting as its president for four years and treasurer for two. He remained deeply active in the Hispanic community throughout his life. Appointed by Governor Nelson Rockefeller in 1966 to the State Board of Social Welfare, Jose also served on the boards of the Puerto Rican Association for Community Affairs, the Hispanic Labor Committee, and the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement. He was instrumental in organizing the Puerto Rican Day Parade in New York City and celebrated Puerto Rican culture through the Puerto Rican Folklore Fiesta.

That same year, AFL-CIO President George Meany appointed Jose as a Field Representative for Region 7, covering New York, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico. In this role, he traveled extensively across Central and South America, teaching trade union principles and organizing strategies.

From 1968 to 1973, he played a vital role in supporting Cesar Chavez and the United Farm Workers during the national grape boycott. Jose traveled the country delivering speeches, organizing, fundraising, and rallying consumer and union support - efforts that helped farm workers in California secure their first union contract in 1970.

         He continued his education, carning an Associate's Degree in Labor Studies from the Harry Van Arsdale School of Labor Studies. In the late 1970s, encouraged by Harry Van Arsdale Jr., he motivated many members of the Santiago Iglesias Society to pursue higher education - a path many had never considered.

In the early years of New York's growing Latino labor presence, Local #3's leadership under Harry Van Arsdale Jr. began to recognize the vital contributions of Puerto Rican workers. Van Arsdale believed deeply that the labor movement must represent all who labor — regardless of language or origin — and he opened the door for greater Latino participation within the union. Inspired by that example, Jose Lopez carried the torch forward. As New York's Latino population expanded beyond its predominantly Puerto Rican roots in the 1970s, he understood that unity among all Spanish-speaking communities — Dominican, Colombian, Cuban, Mexican, and others — was essential to strengthening the labor movement. Amid the rivalries that often arise among immigrant groups, Jose saw opportunity rather than division. He worked tirelessly to bridge cultural and national differences, welcoming every voice into the union family.

Through his leadership, the Latino presence within Local #3 evolved from a single community's struggle into a collective movement — one that embodied solidarity, di-versity, and shared strength.
Jose also led the recruitment of Latino workers into the Local #3 apprenticeship pro-gram, a program that still exists today. He believed deeply in the power of union membership as a bridge to the middle class.
He counted both Harry Van Arsdale Jr. and Cesar Chavez as personal mentors. He believed in political action, in the strength of collective unity, and most of all, in the duty of leadership to speak for those who have no voice.
A loyal and tireless union advocate, Jose was respected by all who worked with him.
He was the ultimate coalition and bridge builder - the secret to his success.

As we honor the life and legacy of Jose Lopez and reflect on his passing, let us take a moment to remember one of his enduring contributions to our organization. Long before today, he had the foresight to create and design the logo we proudly cherish today.

Though our organization's roots are in Puerto Rico, Jose understood the broader vision
one that includes and celebrates all the Spanish-speaking countries represented in this room today. His vision and leadership continue to inspire us and bring us together
carrying forward the very flame that was lit sixty-five years ago, burning just as brightly in our hearts today.
Jose is survived by his loving wife Gloria, his daughter, Nilda, his sons, Edwin and Jose, his grandchildren, Jose Jr., Emilia, Daniel, and great grandchildren, Lucas and Rafael - his legacy carried forward in each of them.
 

Helped establish the Santiago Iglesias Educational Society in 1958 and served as its President for many years.

In 1966, appointed by Governor Nelson Rockefeller to the New York State Board of Social Welfare.

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Active leader in the Hispanic community and on the boards of the Puerto Rican Association for Community Affairs, the Hispanic Labor Committee, the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement, and Puerto Rican Folkhore Fiesta.

Helped organize the Puerto Rican Day Parade, celebrating cultural pride and unity.

Appointed by AFL-CIO President George Meany in 1967

as Field Representative for Region No. 7 (New York, New Jersey & Puerto Rico).

From 1968 to 1970, assisted the United Farm Workers during the successful boycott of California grapes.
 

Through leadership, advocacy, and unwavering dedication, Jose Lopez helped build stronger communities and opened doors for future generations. This scholarship ensures that his commitment to education, justice, and opportunity continues to make a difference.