[Congressional Record Volume 168, Number 199 (Wednesday, December 21, 2022)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1327]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE OF CARMEN H. PEREZ

                                 ______
                                 

                          HON. FRANK J. MRVAN

                               of indiana

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, December 21, 2022

  Mr. MRVAN. Madam Speaker, it is with deep sadness and the utmost 
respect that I take this time to remember one of Indiana's most 
distinguished citizens, Carmen H. Perez, beloved mother, grandmother, 
and educator of over 45 years. On Friday, December 16, 2022, Carmen 
passed away at the age of 89. She will be greatly missed by her family, 
friends, students, and the many people whose lives she influenced.
  Carmen H. Perez was a lifelong educator and taught at several school 
corporations throughout the region, including the Gary Community School 
Corporation, where she spent much of her career. Carmen's passion for 
the principles of early childhood development and inclusion led her to 
start the first bilingual preschool education program in the state of 
Indiana. In 2004, Carmen was presented with the Spirit of Justice Award 
by the Indiana Civil Rights Commission, its highest honor, for her work 
dedicated to improving the integration and success of Latino students. 
Her true devotion to helping children and young adults succeed will 
continue to serve as an inspiration to us all.
  In addition to her outstanding career, Carmen also had a passion for 
advocacy and civil service. She participated in the 1969 White House 
Conference on Food, Health, and Nutrition, and served as a delegate to 
both the 1970 White House Conference on Children and the 1971 NATO 
International Conference on Cities. In 1986, Carmen was invited by the 
United States Department of State to the Foreign Policy Conference for 
Leaders of National Minority and Women's Organizations. For her humble 
and unwavering civil service, Carmen is worthy of our praise and 
gratitude.
  Carmen H. Perez is survived by her loving daughter, Nina, grandson, 
Michael (Hannah), best friend, Rose, and in March 2023, great-grandson, 
David. She will also be remembered by numerous friends, neighbors, and 
students for her truly outstanding contributions to her community and 
throughout the Nation.
  Madam Speaker, I ask that you and my other distinguished colleagues 
join me in honoring and remembering Carmen H. Perez for her lifelong 
commitment to education and civil service. For her truly meaningful 
career and her devotion to so many virtuous causes, Carmen leaves a 
legacy that is worthy of the highest praise.

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