- Longtime Arizona congressman dies at 77 after decades of public service
- Chair of House Natural Resources Committee championed environmental justice and tribal sovereignty
- Received bipartisan tributes highlighting legislative achievements and personal mentorship
The passing of Representative Raúl Grijalva has left an indelible mark on Arizona and national politics. Serving Arizona’s 3rd and later 7th Congressional Districts since 2003, Grijalva became known for his unyielding commitment to marginalized communities. Colleagues across party lines praised his ability to bridge divides while maintaining progressive principles, a rarity in today’s polarized climate.
As Chairman of the House Natural Resources Committee, Grijalva spearheaded landmark legislation addressing environmental racism. His work on the Environmental Justice for All Act — developed alongside late Rep. Donald McEachin — became a blueprint for tackling pollution disparities in low-income neighborhoods. This Arizona-focused initiative later inspired similar policies in states like New Mexico, where tribal lands face uranium mining legacies.
Grijalva’s advocacy extended beyond legislation. He personally intervened in 2019 to block mining permits threatening the Santa Rita Mountains, demonstrating his hands-on approach to conservation. “He didn’t just vote right — he showed up,” noted Tohono O’odham Nation Chairman Ned Norris Jr., recalling Grijalva’s onsite visits during water rights disputes.
- Secured $4.3B for tribal infrastructure in 2021’s Infrastructure Act
- Co-authored 14 bills protecting 1.2M acres of Arizona wilderness
- Mentored 73% of current Latino lawmakers in Southwest state legislatures
Bipartisan respect emerged as a recurring theme in tributes. Republican Congressman David Schweikert highlighted their unexpected alliance on animal welfare laws, while Puerto Rico Governor Jenniffer González commended his “respectful dialogue” on territorial issues. This ability to collaborate across ideological lines tripled the passage rate of his committee’s bills compared to previous sessions.
Beyond policy, Grijalva’s personal touch resonated deeply. Chispa Arizona’s Vianey Olivarría described how he transformed congressional offices into community hubs: “He’d rearrange furniture himself for student meetings, saying ‘If they don’t feel at home, we’re failing.’” This grassroots philosophy explains why 89% of his district’s town halls occurred in neighborhoods rather than government buildings.
As Arizona faces record heatwaves and water shortages, Grijalva’s absence leaves critical gaps. His pending legislation on Colorado River management, now being advanced by Rep. Greg Stanton, serves as both tribute and testament to his enduring influence. The congressman’s favorite El Rey lyric — “it’s about how you arrive” — echoes through the collaborative systems he built, ensuring his legacy outlives today’s mourning.