[Congressional Record Volume 167, Number 181 (Friday, October 15, 2021)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1099]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING ISABEL MARTINEZ SANTOS AS IOWAN OF THE WEEK

                                 ______
                                 

                           HON. CYNTHIA AXNE

                                of iowa

                    in the house of representatives

                        Friday, October 15, 2021

  Mrs. AXNE. Madam Speaker, I rise today to honor Isabel Martinez 
Santos as Iowan of the Week. Isabel immigrated to the United States and 
has lived in Iowa for 28 years. Isabel has become a staple of advocacy 
within her community. Isabel has committed herself to addressing the 
conflict that exists in our world through her position with the Iowa 
Coalition Against Domestic Violence and with Nuestras Danzas sin 
Fronteras, a community-focused dance group she founded.
  Isabel started her very accomplished career as a member of a 
community group that worked directly with women who faced violence in 
different aspects of their lives. Through this, and the values that 
were instilled in her from her parents, Isabel began to amplify the 
voices of those in need. This year, Isabel was promoted as the co-
director of Iowa Coalition Against Domestic Violence's Legal Clinic as 
the Bi-Lingual DOJ Accredited Representative. She provides legal 
services, consultations, resources, and support to survivors of partner 
violence. She also offers technical assistance, mentorship to Spanish-
speaking bi-cultural advocates, and training. Her commitment to 
advocacy on behalf of survivors is evident in her extensive track 
record of 22 years in the victim services field.
  In addition to her role with the Iowa Coalition Against Domestic 
Violence, Isabel found another way to give back to her community. 
Isabel founded Nuestras Danzas sin Fronteras almost six years ago 
hoping to create a place for self-care for other advocates. Since its 
opening, Isabel has welcomed a broader spectrum of members of her 
community to highlight individual cultures, have fun, and overcome the 
barriers of trauma. Through her group, Isabel strives to provide change 
that will last for generations.
  Not only has Isabel been an incredible advocate for the women of 
Iowa, but Isabel is also the 2021 recipient of the Diane Reese 
Excellence in Advocacy in the Movement (DREAM) Award from the National 
Network to end Domestic Violence. This national award is granted to 
individuals who incorporate and demonstrate the spirit and promise of 
true advocacy in all aspects of their life--one who emulates Ms. 
Reese's commitment to clear and ethical communication, her eagerness to 
collaborate in the spirit of true partnership, and her deep respect for 
the dignity, worth and humanity in each one of us.
  Isabel hopes to be a role model and leave a legacy for her three 
children, her community, and immigrant women around the world by 
continuing to actively work to end the violence that exists in our 
world. It is my pleasure to name Isabel Martinez Santos Iowan of the 
Week.

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