FOLLOW US

In a city renowned for its titans, Carol Robles-Román, a stalwart Latina leader and unwavering advocate for women's rights, has left a legacy as colossal as New York itself. At 60, after an arduous six-year duel with lung cancer, this formidable figure met an untimely end.

Often heralded as New York's guiding light, her tenure as deputy mayor from 2002 to 2013 saw her serve with unparalleled devotion, paving the way for greater inclusion, equity, and excellence.

Much like a lighthouse guiding ships through stormy waters, she stood strong, breaking barriers and leading the charge against societal storms of inequality and injustice.

Carol Robles-Román Death: Bloomberg's Testament to a Titan

Former Mayor Michael Bloomberg nostalgically recalls the 12 years where they sat as partners in vision.

"She was our North Star", he stated, emphasizing her unyielding commitment to a more equal New York.

Her efforts were instrumental in navigating challenges, especially for the immigrant, disabled communities, and those ensnared in the webs of domestic violence and human trafficking.

Beyond the Mayor's Office

Exiting the mayor's chamber didn't dim her resolve.

Instead, she shone even brighter, taking national stages by storm, first as the head of the Women's Legal Defense Fund and subsequently leading the ERA Coalition/Fund for Women's Equality.

Her touch extended beyond politics; Carol was instrumental in crafting brighter futures, championing higher education opportunities at CUNY and Hunter College.

Natalie Gomez-Velez, a notable figure in the City University of New York, reverently describes Carol: "While navigating the vast ocean of public service, she unfailingly cast lifelines to budding law aspirants, ensuring they weren't adrift."

Carol Robles-Román Death: A Personal Struggle

Though never a smoker, Carol's Stage 4 lung cancer was a cruel twist of fate, attributed to 9/11 exposure.

This revelation not only shocked her immediate circle but also shed light on the perils faced by countless New Yorkers post that fateful day.

Justice Gonzalez, a friend since their days at NYU Law School, beautifully encapsulated Carol's spirit: "From leading sit-ins against racial prejudice at NYU to her relentless public service, Carol's essence remained unaltered - a fierce, compassionate force of nature."

The Many Hats of Carol

Frances Robles, a correspondent for The New York Times and Carol's sibling, unveiled another side of her: a woman driven by 'missions of mercy'.

A crusader who reveled in championing lost causes, ensuring that no cry for help went unheard.

Post her graduation in 1989, Carol, along with her husband, Judge Román, sowed the seeds of an association focused on elevating Latino law students.

The duo perfectly encapsulated the blend of solemnity and fun, with Judge Román handling the turntables while Carol served refreshments at their events.

 A Beacon of Legal Prowess

Her legal prowess took many forms: from special counsel to former chief judge Jonathan Lippman to serving as an assistant attorney general in New York.

But it was her relentless war against human trafficking that remained her enduring crusade.

Carol Robles-Román Death: Family First

But amidst this whirlwind of accomplishments, her heart remained anchored to her family.

Her sister, Frances Robles, poignantly recalls: "Her biggest battles were for us, the family. Carol was the wind beneath our wings, ceaselessly striving for our dreams."