BOISE, Idaho — A local advocate and leader in the Latino community has died. J.J Saldaña was a founding advisory council member to Voces Internship of Idaho, co-founded the Idaho Hispanic Youth Leadership Summit and worked with the Idaho Commission on Hispanic Affairs for over 20 years.
In a statement given by Voces Internship of Idaho, the organization said Saldaña's death will leave a void that cannot be filled.
"He fiercely believed in the importance of making sure Idaho Latinos were faithfully and truthfully represented in Idaho media and the public sphere -- work he started long before Voces was even an idea," the organization wrote.
Saldaña also hosted The Latino Card and at one time was a member of the Idaho Statesman's Editorial Board. People and organizations across the state have been expressing their sadness and leaving stories of the work he did for his community.
Governor Brad Little said Saldaña was a leader.
"JJ was a leader in our communities and a relentless advocate for Idaho's growing Hispanic population. Teresa and I send our condolences to the family and many loved ones of JJ."
Boise Mayor Lauren McLean said she was heartbroken over the news.
"Heartbroken over the news of J.J Saldaña's passing. I feel fortunate to have spent precious time with him just last week. I loved working with him whenever I had the chance and deeply appreciated his service to Boise on the Arts and History Commission. J.J Saldaña worked tirelessly to advocate for and elevate the voices of his beloved community, improving countless lives in the process. I extend my heartfelt condolences to his loved ones and everyone whose life he touched."
The Idaho Hispanic Chamber of Commerce said he will be greatly missed.
"Our hearts are heavy as we bid farewell to a true champion of our community, JJ Saldaña. As a tireless advocate for the Hispanic & Latino community, JJ's impact reached far beyond the Statehouse and college walls and into the hearts of those he served. His dedication to his work at the Idaho Commission of Hispanic Affairs and many other projects, enriched countless lives. We extend our deepest condolences to his loved ones and all whose lives he touched. JJ, you will be greatly missed."
The Boise Police Department said he was a treasure for the community.
"J.J. Saldaña was a true treasure for our community and partner to so many. He served on our Chief's Community Advisory Panel since its inception and worked for years with our Hispanic Liaison to ensure BPD always had a large and important presence at the Hispanic Youth Leadership Summit. We are deeply saddened to hear of his passing and our hearts go out to his loved ones and the huge number of people he touched through his work. J.J. will be remembered as someone who always brought a smile and a kind word and left things better than he found it."
Rex R. Ingram, the Caldwell Chief of Police said the department was saddened to hear of his passing and their thoughts were with his loved ones.
"J.J. was a passionate advocate for the Hispanic community and a tremendous partner to law enforcement. His tragic, untimely passing is saddening and far too early. J.J. had a kind spirited soul that made an indelible mark on those who knew him. I will miss his cheerful laughter and warm way with words. Rest in peace, hermano."
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