[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 97 (Monday, June 5, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E517-E518]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




HONORING MARIA EDUARDO AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR 
           ASIAN AMERICAN AND PACIFIC ISLANDER HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                          Monday, June 5, 2023

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, on May 26, 2023, I recognized Maria Eduardo as 
a distinguished leader in Central Florida for Asian American and 
Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Maria Eduardo has been a clinical 
laboratory scientist (CLS) and AAPI manager for almost a decade in the 
Veterans Health System. She is a community leader known for her 
advocacy work in promoting diversity and inclusion. She has been 
instrumental in creating and implementing the Asian Pacific Island 
Heritage program in her community.
  Born and raised in the Philippines, Maria Eduardo developed a deep 
appreciation for her country's rich culture and history. Her passion 
for cultural awareness led her to pursue her master's degree so she 
could share her knowledge and experiences with others.
  Maria Eduardo's interest in the APIH program was sparked by the lack 
of representation and recognition for the Asian Pacific Islander 
community in her workplace. She recognized that many of her colleagues 
from these communities faced discrimination and marginalization due to 
the lack of understanding and awareness of their cultures.
  In response, Maria Eduardo spearheaded the creation of the APIH 
program, which aims to promote understanding and appreciation of the 
contributions and experiences of the Asian Pacific Islander community. 
The program includes educational activities, cultural events, and 
community outreach efforts. As the founder of the Philippines 
Association of Medical Technologists, Florida Chapter, she is focused 
on their recruitment program helping fellow CLS's find job 
opportunities in the United States.
  Under Maria Eduardo's leadership, the APIH program has made a 
significant impact on the community. It has helped raise awareness of 
the rich cultural heritage of Asian Pacific Islanders and has provided 
a platform for members of these communities to share their stories and 
experiences.
  Maria Eduardo's dedication to promoting cultural diversity and 
inclusion has earned her numerous awards and recognition. She is a 
sought-after speaker on topics related to cultural awareness and has 
inspired many others to follow in her footsteps.
  Through her work with the APIH program, Maria Eduardo has 
demonstrated the power of education and community involvement in 
creating a more inclusive and understanding society. Her legacy serves 
as an inspiration to all those who strive to promote cultural awareness 
and acceptance.

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