[Congressional Record Volume 159, Number 56 (Tuesday, April 23, 2013)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E523]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        HONORING ADELFA CALLEJO

                                 ______
                                 

                       HON. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON

                                of texas

                    in the house of representatives

                        Tuesday, April 23, 2013

  Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 
recognize a leader in my community and esteemed civil rights lawyer, 
Adelfa Callejo.
  On Friday, April 12, Adelfa Callejo was given a most deserving honor 
when the Dallas Independent School District, DISD, dedicated an 
elementary school bearing her name. At the dedication, Adelfa Callejo, 
now 89 years old, stood up from her wheelchair and proclaimed, ``Only 
through education will we make the world a better place than when we 
found it.'' Throughout her life, Adelfa Callejo has improved the lives 
of countless individuals in my community through her life of good deeds 
and public service.
  Adelfa Callejo was the first Hispanic woman to graduate from Southern 
Methodist University, SMU, Dedman School of Law. She has been in 
private practice in Dallas for more than 45 years. Working full-time 
during the day, Adelfa Callejo attended night school and graduated in 
1961. Adelfa Callejo, an advocate for civil rights, has pursued 
community causes throughout her life and has won many awards for her 
years of service in the community and legal profession.
  Mr. Speaker, Adelfa Callejo is an exceptional community leader and 
deserving of recognition for her contributions to society. Our country 
is a better one because of Adelfa Callejo.

                          ____________________