Civil Rights leader Bob Santos

Bob Santos died Sunday at the age of 82. He was a member of the Gang of Four, a coalition of community leaders who were civil rights leaders in Seattle.

As Santos said in a HistoryLink.org interview,

"One Mexican guy, one Native American guy, one black guy, and me, the Asian guy. We formed a coalition. We were, all four of us, executive directors of our own agencies, serving our individual communities. And at one point, we got together, said 'Hey, we have to work together.' So it was really a very innovative approach for activism that included all the major ethnic groups."

Metropolitan King County Councilmember Larry Gossett, the only member still living, released the following statement on the passing of Bob Santos:

“Bob Santos was a pivotal figure in the life of people of King County. The strong and vibrant International District will be ‘Uncle Bob’s’ living legacy for the people of this region—it was his home, and he protected that neighborhood and the rich history of the people of all races who lived in that community every day of his life. 

“Personally, I’ve lost a dear friend and ally who worked on empowering communities of color throughout our region and nationally. I was immensely proud of Bob being one of my ‘Amigos’ and with Roberto Maestas and Bernie Whitebear, we spoke, marched and, at times, went to jail to ensure that our communities received the opportunities that had been denied them for too long. 

“My deep condolences to his wife Sharon, his six children and his grand and great–grandchildren. 

“He will be deeply missed.”