On the recordMarch 9, 2020
Today, I would like to take a moment to honor a good friend, an incredible young man, one of Miami's best, Patrick Hidalgo, who passed away last week. Words cannot begin to describe the brightness that Patrick reflected on the world. His smile was infectious; his passion for life was palpable; and his empathy made everyone feel seen, feel heard, and feel valued. Patrick accomplished more in his lifetime on Earth than many will in their entire lives. He was a Belen High School grad. He graduated from Georgetown, Harvard, and MIT. He was appointed by the Obama administration to work in the White House, and he was a huge driving force in helping normalize relations with Cuba. While Patrick could have done anything with his life, he decided to move back home to Miami and work to ensure that our city became the best version of itself, a more equitable, more just, more accessible place for all Floridians. He recently cofounded the Miami Freedom Project to achieve just that. I know that Patrick has found his freedom and his peace. We will honor his legacy by working to ensure that our city is a more just and freer place. Patrick, you touched the lives of so many people from so many walks of life. You made us better. You challenged us. You believed in us. We promise to honor your legacy. May you rest in peace, Patrick. ____________________
