On July 7, Public Knowledge was notified that its former Vice President of Legal Affairs, Sherwin Lee Siy, passed away at the age of 40. Sherwin championed the public interest throughout his career, serving as a member of the Public Knowledge staff from 2006 to 2015. His technology policy work spanned many subjects, including copyright, privacy, telecommunications, and free expression.
The following may be attributed to Public Knowledge President and CEO Chris Lewis on behalf of Public Knowledge:
“We are heartbroken to have lost a beloved member of the Public Knowledge family, former Vice President of Legal Affairs, Sherwin Lee Siy. Sherwin was a pillar of our organization for nearly 10 years and a passionate advocate for the openness of information in the digital era. His intellect and expertise in the law made him a leader and mentor inside Public Knowledge at a relatively young age, but it was his humor and wit that endeared him to his colleagues. His openness and enthusiasm as a mentor to young advocates left a lasting mark across the entire field.
“Sherwin loved to travel, experience new foods and cultures, and share those experiences with his friends. He was a bright light of joy in our field, and that joy and friendship will be sorely missed by all of us who had the pleasure of working and knowing him. Our hearts go out to Sherwin’s family with the loss of their wonderful son and brother. They remain in our prayers in this difficult time of mourning.”
Please help us honor Sherwin Lee Siy’s legacy of activism and mentorship by supporting the next generation of policy advocates through a memorial fund in his name. You may also email FriendsofSherwin@gmail.com for more information on any other charities or services in his honor.
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Members of the media may contact Communications Director Shiva Stella with inquiries, interview requests, or to join the Public Knowledge press list at shiva@publicknowledge.org or 405-249-9435.