[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 50 (Thursday, March 21, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H1306]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




          HONORING MARGOT TAYLOR DURING WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
California (Ms. Barragan) for 5 minutes.
  Ms. BARRAGAN. Mr. Speaker, in recognition of Women's History Month, I 
stand here to celebrate a remarkable woman from my district whose 
dedication to equity and justice has made a profound impact: Margot 
Taylor.
  Margot serves as vice president of strategy and advocacy at Planned 
Parenthood Los Angeles, where she has been and continues to be an 
integral part of the community since 2009.
  Margot is a driving force for advancing reproductive health 
education, access to contraception, and defending the fundamental right 
to safe, legal abortion.
  At the University of Houston, she witnessed firsthand disparities 
faced by Black and Brown communities. Motivated by these injustices, 
Margot is dedicated to dismantling systemic racism through advocacy and 
action. Margot's experiences fueled her passion to ensure equitable 
access to healthcare and community services, especially for 
marginalized groups.
  As the leader of Planned Parenthood's Black Health Initiative, she 
has championed successful approaches to address disparities in 
underserved communities.
  With unwavering dedication to our community, Margot embodies the 
spirit of Women's History Month, a trailblazer dedicated to advancing 
reproductive rights and healthcare access for all.


        Honoring Dr. Gabriela Lopez During Women's History Month

  Ms. BARRAGAN. Mr. Speaker, this Women's History Month it is my honor 
to spotlight an exceptional woman from my district whose story embodies 
compassion and determination, Dr. Gabriela Lopez.
  A San Pedro native, Dr. Lopez shattered barriers from the start. Born 
to immigrant parents, she became the first in her family to graduate 
from college and earn a doctorate in medicine.
  During her time at UCLA, she recognized a critical need for 
inclusivity in healthcare for non-English speaking patients. She led 
efforts to provide translators for patients at UCLA Mattel Children's 
Hospital so that language barriers did not prevent access to quality 
care. Her actions exemplify empathy and service.
  Dr. Lopez remains deeply involved with our community. As a dance 
instructor for a local group in San Pedro, California, she celebrates 
her heritage and encourages unity and belonging.
  Dr. Lopez' remarkable journey has been featured on platforms like 
UCLA Newsroom and La Opinion. Her story serves as a beacon of 
inspiration for women everywhere. Her story reminds us that with 
determination and heart, committed to service, women can overcome any 
obstacle and make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
  Let us honor Dr. Gabriela Lopez and all the trailblazing women who 
continue to shape our world with their courage and compassion not just 
this month but every month.

                          ____________________