The City Council Tuesday honored civil rights attorney Luis Carrillo for his 47-year career advocating on behalf of his clients and the Latino community.
Councilwoman Eunisses Hernandez, who introduced the commendatory resolution on Dec. 5, led the ceremony during Tuesday’s council meeting. Carrillo’s family, friends and supporters were in attendance as he received the recognition.
“I am honored to be joined today by Luis Carrillo, a renowned civil rights attorney and advocate, on whose shoulders many of us stand on today,” Hernandez said during the ceremony.
The councilwoman described Carrillo’s work as “cutting edge” and “brave” as he challenged systems that were much more powerful and had so much more influence.
“Carrillo played a pivotal role in civil rights cases that have led to changes in the police department and school district’s trainings, policies, procedures and improvements in the quality of life for countless community members — not just in Los Angeles but across the country,” Hernandez said.
While Carrillo is set to retire, his commitment to the Latino community dates back to the 1960s when he championed the cause of East L.A. High School students during the famed walkouts that demanded equal opportunities and conditions for students attending Los Angeles Unified School District schools in Latino communities.
He litigated institutional child sexual abuse cases and several civil rights cases challenging the Los Angeles Police Department’s use of force training requirements and policies.
Carrillo represented hundreds of children who were sexually abused in public school settings, which resulted in several eight-figure settlements and verdicts on behalf of his clients.
The honoree thanked the council members and opened his remarks with “un grito” — a traditional Mexican cry. He extended his gratitude for Karen Waters, daughter of Rep. Maxine Waters, and Oscar D’ León, of the “Lion of Salsa,” who were present.
“I humbly accept this proclamation, and I say humbly, because we got a lot of work to do in the future,” Carrillo said.
Karen Waters, on behalf of her mother, said, “I am proud of having worked with you to protect civil rights over 23 years ago, and the many issues since then.”
The proclamation reads, “(Carrillo’s) dedication to his clients and his relentless pursuit of justice have firmly established his reputation as a champion for civil rights and an unwavering advocate for underserved communities.”