[Congressional Record Volume 145, Number 91 (Thursday, June 24, 1999)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1389]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




   HONORING CARMEN DIAZ FOR HER LIFETIME DEDICATION TO THE COMMUNITY

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. NYDIA M. VELAZQUEZ

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, June 24, 1999

  Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, it is with great pride that I ask you and 
my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Carmen Diaz for her years of 
leadership and contribution to the communities of the 12th 
Congressional District.
  In 1953 Ms. Diaz came to the United States to fulfill her dream of 
creating a better life for herself and her family. She began by working 
hard for $42 a week as a machine operator in a woman's garment factory. 
She saved money, and was diligent and with great determination, in 1955 
she was able to send for her children in Puerto Rico. With herself and 
two children to feed she continued to toil. She ensured the children 
were healthy and that they received an education.
  She also took time to further her own education, making the effort to 
become a bilingual teacher. Once she received her degree, she began 
teaching bilingual education which she did for eight years.
  During this time she became active in the community, working for 
Community Board 1. She was able to use her experience, education and 
determination to help other people in the community. Wanting to do 
more, striving to succeed, she enrolled in Boricua College in Brooklyn. 
With the same kind of dedication and effort that made her a success, 
she was able to earn a Bachelor's Degree in Sociology. With that 
accomplishment, she engaged in increased community work as a social 
worker.
  From that point on, she remained deeply committed to civil service, 
working hard to help people throughout Brooklyn. She played a key role 
in many organizations including the Los Sures Senior Center and later 
in the Diana Jones Senior Center.
  She did this kind of work until last year when she became ill and was 
unable to continue working. Despite the fact that she can no longer 
work, she still has an impact on our community. The work she does still 
helps people, but more importantly, she stands as a role model to 
thousands of people. She truly embodies the American Dream. She is a 
great woman and a great American, and I urge my colleagues to join me 
in honoring her.

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