"For the better part of the past two decades, Dennis deLeon has worked tirelessly to end discrimination against HIV-positive individuals and expand access to care for all communities, and I was saddened to learn of his passing this morning. Dennis demonstrated a life-long commitment to public service, beginning his New York career in the Law Department, serving as Human Right Commissioner under Mayor Dinkins and as a board member of the Civilian Complaint Review Board since his appointment in 2003.

"Dennis helped develop a number of innovative programs - from the Latino Religious Leadership Project and National Latino AIDS Awareness Day to the Bilingual Health Education Institute and the National Latino AIDS Action Network - that have improved HIV/AIDS education and outreach in the five boroughs and beyond.  His efforts have made a significant difference in the lives of so many, and our City is deeply grateful for his leadership and dedication.

"My heart goes out to his partner, Bruce Kiernan, and their entire family, and I would ask New Yorkers to keep them in their thoughts and prayers."