Southside United HDFC-Los Sures

We are heartbroken by the passing of Christopher “Chilo” Cajigas, an extraordinary poet, teacher, musician, and human being. Chilo was not only a friend to so many of us, but also a true friend and supporter of Southside United HDFC – Los Sures. Our late board chair, David Lopez, admired him deeply, and we will never forget how Chilo showed up for us and for David’s memorial with love and solidarity.

To his family, his partner, his poetry family, friends, and students, we share in your grief and in your pride for the legacy Chilo leaves behind. His words and his presence will continue to inspire us all. Rest in power, dear brother.

#TBT THEY CAME | Arturo O'Farrill & ALJO feat. Christopher "Chilo" Cajigas, DJ Logic, Jason Lindner THEY CAME | Arturo O'Farrill & the ALJOFeat. Christopher "Chilo" Cajigas (Spoken Word), DJ Logic (Turntables), Jason Lindner (Conductor)Composed and Arr...

Street Co-Naming Ceremony & Resource Fair
In honor of
David Lopez

Longtime Chairman of Southside United HDFC-Los Sures, tenant organizer, human rights activist, visionary leader, and poet.

Join us as we celebrate David’s legacy, leadership, and lifelong commitment to fighting for housing justice, human rights, and our community.

Friday, August 22, 2025
Street Co-Naming Sign Unveiling: 2:00 PM
Corner of South 4th St & Bedford Ave

Resource Fair: 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
South 3rd St & Bedford Ave

Special Thanks To:
His loving family
Southside United HDFC – Los Sures
Council Member Shekar Krishnan
Council Member Jennifer Gutiérrez

Let’s honor David’s memory together and continue the work he dedicated his life to.
💪🏽✊🏽

We invite you to join us TODAY from 7pm-10pm at the opening reception of our Group Art Exhibit Celebrating Hispanic Heritage Month.

It is with deep sorrow that we announce the passing of David Lopez, 70, a cherished founding member of Southside United HDFC - Los Sures.
David passed away peacefully in his home on Saturday, July 6, 2024.
For nearly five decades, he dedicated himself to our board, serving as Chairman for many years until 2023.

**A Life of Passion and Commitment**

David was not just a poet and activist; he was a true champion of human and housing rights. His unwavering dedication to our community made him a beloved figure. David’s strength lay in his profound love for humanity, always working tirelessly to uplift others. His efforts at Southside United HDFC - Los Sures ensured that the most vulnerable among us were supported, and he passionately worked towards preserving the Latino footprint in Williamsburg. His legacy is one of inspiration and a relentless call to service.

**Roots in Williamsburg**

David’s journey began in Williamsburg, where he joined local marches and demonstrations at the young age of 14, inspired by the activism of the Young Lords. He pursued his education at NY Technical College and the College of New Rochelle. David served as treasurer for Musica Against Drugs, offering outreach to AIDS patients. As a Human Rights Specialist at the NYC Human Rights Commission, he was a pivotal mediator during the Crown Heights riots in 1991. Even after retiring, David continued to mentor young activists and engaged in numerous community and political campaigns, including the Broadway Triangle fight for affordable housing.

David is survived by his beloved partner Anita, his son David Emeterio, his daughter Cassandra, his grandchildren Jamel, Antonique, Marcayla, and his great-grandson Ahli.

**Honoring His Memory**

A memorial service to celebrate David’s life will be held on Saturday, July 20th, at El Puente, located at 211 S. 4th Street, Brooklyn, NY 11211. We invite all who knew and loved David to join us in remembering his remarkable life and legacy.

Apply by April 15 for the newly constructed Rheingold Affordable Senior Residences!

🏡These units offer a rooftop garden , community rooms, and more.
Learn more: https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/details/4316

✅Applicants must have at least one household member 62 years of age or older and fall within the eligible income range.

➡Apply online at https://housingconnect.nyc.gov/PublicWeb/details/4316 or via mail.

Yesterday Southside United HDFC-Los Sures, Los Sures Lucha % Communities Resist marched across the Broadway Triangle to defend the tenants of 157 Lorimer St & 374 Wallabout St and to make sure not one more Latino family is displaced from the highly segregated area!

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