Congressional Hispanic Conference Statement on the Passing of the Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart

Today, Congressman Tony Gonzales (TX-23), Chairman of the Congressional Hispanic Conference, released the following statement in remembrance of the Honorable Lincoln Diaz-Balart.

“I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Lincoln Diaz-Balart’s passing. Lincoln was a talented, principled, and dedicated public servant—he was a trailblazer for the Hispanic community in Congress and was instrumental in the fight to free Cuba,” said Chairman Tony Gonzales.  “Lincoln’s deep sense of patriotism led him to build up the next generation of leaders through the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI), which has inspired generations of Hispanic voices to rise and lead not only within the halls of Congress, but in industries across the United States and the globe. Lincoln’s legacy and years of public service will live on through the many individuals touched by his monumental life of service. My prayers are with Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart and his family during this time.”

Congressman Mario Diaz-Balart (FL-26), founder of the Congressional Hispanic Conference, alongside members of his family, issued the below statement following the passing of his brother. 

"It is with great sorrow that we announce the passing of Lincoln Diaz-Balart.

Defender of the silenced and oppressed, author of the democracy requirement for the lifting of U.S. sanctions against the Cuban dictatorship, and the author of the Nicaraguan. Adjustment and Central American Relief Act (NACARA). Lincoln’s legacy of achievements will endure for generations, and continues through the work of the Congressional Hispanic Leadership Institute (CHLI) which he co-founded in 2003.

Lincoln’s profound love for the United States, and his relentless commitment to the cause of a free Cuba, guided him throughout his life and his 24 years in elected public service, including 18 years in the U.S. House of Representatives.

Lincoln is survived by his soulmate and wife of 48 years, Cristina, his son Daniel and daughter-in-law Estefania, cherished grandsons Lincoln Daniel and Edwin Rafael, brothers Rafael, Jose, and Mario, and their wives, Elba, Brenda and Tia. Lincoln was preceded in death by his beloved first son, Lincoln Gabriel.

We will miss him infinitely.

A public memorial mass will be announced shortly."

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