[Congressional Record Volume 169, Number 112 (Tuesday, June 27, 2023)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E617-E618]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING WILLIAM LAWSON AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA 
                      FOR CARIBBEAN HERITAGE MONTH

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 27, 2023

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, William Lawson, a proud half-Puerto Rican, has 
emerged as a prominent community leader and advocate for working 
families in Central Florida. Born and raised in Miami, Florida to 
William Lawson and Elise Del Rio, William's diverse heritage, with 
roots tracing back to the Bahamas and Puerto Rico, has influenced his 
unwavering commitment to empowering underrepresented communities.
  William's passion for politics and social justice was ignited during 
his college years, where he pursued studies in anthropology. It was 
through grassroots movements and protests that he discovered the 
transformative

[[Page E618]]

power of collective action. Motivated by a desire to effect meaningful 
change, he immersed himself in electoral and issue-based campaigns, 
channeling his energy into making a difference.
  In late 2015, William found his calling when he joined the Florida 
AFL-CIO, a formidable force representing over 70,000 unionized workers 
in the region, as a field representative. In this role, he has 
tirelessly fought for the rights of working-class individuals, 
championing their cause in the political arena. Working closely with 
unions and grassroots organizations, William has dedicated himself to 
developing strategic campaign plans, aiming to elect pro-union 
candidates who prioritize the well-being of working families at every 
level of public office.
  William has made his presence felt in Tallahassee, annually lobbying 
against legislation that threatens the rights and livelihoods of 
workers that often favor corporate interests. These efforts have been 
instrumental in safeguarding the well-being of countless individuals 
and ensuring a fair and just work environment.
  Beyond his political endeavors, William has demonstrated an 
unwavering commitment to immigrant communities. Through his involvement 
in an immigration program, he has assisted hundreds of legal permanent 
residents in Central Florida to navigate the path to citizenship in the 
United States, providing them with opportunities for a better future.
  In collaboration with numerous unions in the area, William has 
spearheaded various organizing projects, representing the voices of 
teachers, custodians, electricians, painters, cooks, housekeepers, and 
many other vital workers. Through these initiatives, he has been 
instrumental in promoting fair wages, safe working conditions, and 
equitable treatment for those who form the backbone of our communities.

                          ____________________