[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 5 (Wednesday, January 10, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E21]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 HONORING THE AUTHORS OF SOUTH VALLEY: THE POETRY AND ART OF THE SOUTH 
              VALLEY ON THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO NEW MEXICO

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                           HON. GABE VASQUEZ

                             of new mexico

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, January 10, 2024

  Mr. VASQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Cheyenne Anderson, 
Isabel James, Pheladi MacDonald and their collaborators on the 
successful publication of their book, South Valley: The Poetry and Art 
of the South Valley. Their book is an inspirational reminder of young 
people's power to make positive change in their communities. I am 
grateful for the work they have done for the South Valley.
  Cheyenne and Isabel are young activists with a history of 
contributions to the South Valley community. They have been involved 
with amazing local organizations such as La Plazita Institute and 
Crossroads for Women that work to break cycles of incarceration and 
celebrate indigenous culture in New Mexico. Their record of service at 
a young age is admirable.
  Through their activism, Cheyenne and Isabel saw a need to change the 
unfortunate stereotypes about the South Valley and to create a positive 
depiction of their community for other young people. They collaborated 
with young poet Pheladi MacDonald, South Valley artist Bill Mohr, youth 
in the community, and poets Jimmy Santiago Baca, Luis Rodriguez and 
Mary Oliver to create a beautiful collection of art and poetry 
celebrating the South Valley. Their book depicts the unique heritage 
and thriving culture of the South Valley and will be an inspiration for 
future young community activists.
  Since their book's publication, Cheyenne, Isabel and Pheladi have 
worked tirelessly to increase access to it throughout the state and 
their work has been featured on various news programs in New Mexico.
  On behalf of the great people of New Mexico's 2nd Congressional 
District, I applaud Cheyenne Anderson, Isabel James and Pheladi 
MacDonald on their commitment to serving their community and supporting 
their goal of increasing access to their book. Their work has improved 
the South Valley and inspired other youth to contribute positively to 
our region. I thank them for their service.

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