The following statement can be attributed to Hector Figueroa, President of 32BJ SEIU:

“Trump’s pardon of Ex-Sheriff Arpaio is a cowardly and disgraceful act spurred by the same racism and anti-immigrant fervor on display in Charlottesville last week. Even as the public reels after the fallout from Virginia, President Trump is sending yet another message that his White House supports those who abuse people of color and break the law with impunity.

“Ex-Sheriff Arpaio’s illegal arrests destroyed countless lives.  Not only did Ex-Sheriff Arpaio illegally round up residents because of the color of their skin, he refused to prosecute crimes against Latino children, making communities less safe by allowing perpetrators to go free. President Trump’s pardon shows a disturbing lack of regard for the rule of law and American values.”