El Centro de la Raza joins our community in honoring the life and legacy of Magdaleno “Leno” Rose-Avila, a lifelong advocate for civil and human rights whose unwavering commitment to justice transformed countless lives.
Known simply as “Leno” to friends and colleagues, he dedicated more than five decades to standing alongside immigrants, refugees, farmworkers, incarcerated individuals, youth, and others too often left without a voice. His leadership as Executive Director of the Northwest Immigrant Rights Project, his role as the first Director of Seattle’s Office of Immigrant and Refugee Affairs, and his recognition with the City of Seattle’s Distinguished Citizen Award for Human Rights reflected a lifetime devoted to equity and compassion.
To us, Leno was much more than an accomplished advocate. He was a trusted friend of El Centro de la Raza and a dear friend of the Four Amigos, sharing in the vision that every person deserves dignity, opportunity, and belonging. His wisdom, generosity, and steadfast commitment to social justice strengthened our movement and inspired generations of leaders.
Leno also expressed his advocacy through poetry and writing, reminding us that justice is not only pursued through action, but also through storytelling, culture, and hope.
As we remember Leno, we celebrate a life lived in service to others and reaffirm our commitment to carrying forward the values he embodied. His legacy will continue to guide our work as we strive to build the Beloved Community for all.
Descansa en poder, querido amigo. Your legacy lives on.
