December 9, 2010

Shirley Roberts, a vibrant mainstay in Democratic politics and an activist who campaigned for advancement for Los Angeles’ working families, women and poor for more than six decades, died on Tuesday, Dec. 7. She was 79. Roberts had a long record as a fighter for human rights for California’s most vulnerable. She took part in nearly every progressive cause in Los Angeles throughout the 20th century — and pushed her way into the 21st century — racking up one political success after another. “Shirley Roberts never, ever stopped fighting for the things she knew were right and she extended her compassion and love to nearly every person she met,” said Assembly Speaker John A. Pérez (D-Los Angeles). “Whether it was rights for workers, advancement for women, transportation for seniors, or improving health care and conditions for Los Angeles’ poor — Shirley put the people and the causes around her before herself. She was unlike any other woman I’ve ever known, and I will miss her greatly.”