Celebrate Dylcia Pagán's Life with Us

The passing of former Puerto Rican political prisoner Dylcia Noemi Pagán has left so many of her friends, family members, and admirers in a state of shock and mourning. Since her death on June 30, we have continued to process such an incredibly personal and collective loss.

One of my longest-cherished and dearest friends, I first met Dylcia over 65 years ago at a department store across the street from my school, St. Agnes Boys’ High. Dylcia and I reconnected in El Barrio in 1967—soon after the East Harlem riots – and we remained in touch until her passing.

Her remarkable legacy is a testament to the complex and often tumultuous history of the Puerto Rican independence movement, as her achievements continue to spark debate and reflection on the nature of political activism and the lengths to which individuals will go to fight for their beliefs.

On Friday, November 1st, Dylcia’s family and friends will convene at The People’s Church in East Harlem to celebrate her multifaceted career, her personal sacrifice for the independence of Puerto Rico, and her enduring cultural contributions.

The memorial will include reflections from Dylcia’s friends and family—accompanied by a photo and video montage and musical and poetry performances by some of her favorite artists.

Expenses for an event of this magnitude—which will include travel costs for loved ones visiting from Puerto Rico—require our community to come together.

Please join us in helping to celebrate Dylcia’s many accomplishments and contributions to the Puerto Rican community. We humbly ask you to donate generously for this special tribute to nuestra querida luchadora, Dylcia Pagán, and to share your own stories and photos in the comments section. Note: This effort is being conducted with the full support of her son, Ernesto Gómez Gómez.

Mickey Melendez