[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 121 (Friday, September 5, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1718]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                      RECOGNIZING PATRICIA MADRID

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. HILDA L. SOLIS

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Friday, September 5, 2003

  Ms. SOLIS. Mr. Speaker, I stand before you today to recognize one of 
the most inspiring and remarkable Latino leaders in the United States. 
Patricia Madrid is New Mexico's first woman and the nation's first 
Latina attorney general.
  Since taking the oath to office in November 1998, Ms. Madrid 
triumphed at protecting the lives of New Mexicans against all levels of 
violent crimes. She spearheaded initiatives that continue to provide 
assistance for district attorneys in the prosecution of criminals in 
New Mexico. In addition, her actions also established strict provisions 
that protect her state's environmental resources. Through her 
leadership, the people of New Mexico are not only safer from crime but 
the state's wildlife, agriculture, and water quality have thrived too.
  Throughout her legal career, Ms. Madrid received numerous awards for 
her political achievements. She was awarded the Latina Lawyer of the 
Year Award in 2001 by the Hispanic National Bar Association. She 
received the First Annual Elected Official Award for Work on Behalf of 
Crime Victims from Mothers Against Drunk Driving. In 1999, the New 
Mexico Commission on the Status of Women honored her with the 
Trailblazer Award. In 1994, the Mexican American Legal Defense and 
Educational Fund, a national organization, recognized her for her 
outstanding service to the Hispanic community. With all these 
remarkable accomplishments, her commitment to serve the people of New 
Mexico and the Latino community nationwide continues undeterred.
  Ms. Madrid's ventures as New Mexico's attorney general has dismantled 
barriers and paved the way for other women and minorities who aspire to 
reach such feats. I am privileged to recognize her as the perfect 
example of today's exceptional leader.

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