[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 54 (Friday, March 29, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages E295-E296]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING MIRIAM URRA

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. MARIO DIAZ-BALART

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Friday, March 29, 2024

  Mr. DIAZ-BALART. Mr. Speaker, in honor of Women's History Month, I 
rise today to pay tribute to Miriam Urra, an exemplary leader whose 
dedication and tireless efforts have profoundly impacted Allapattah for 
decades. Born in Las Villas, Cuba, Miriam's journey to Miami in 1961 
marked the beginning of a life dedicated to service and strengthening 
her community.
  After graduating from Miami Senior High, Miriam pursued higher 
education at Miami Dade Community College and Florida Memorial College, 
setting the stage for a career defined by compassion and commitment. 
Miriam's professional journey began in the optical field before she and 
her husband, Orlando Urra, established their own business.

[[Page E296]]

  A leader, paratrooper and Prisoner of War in the first battalion of 
the Cuban Democratic Revolutionary Front Bay of Pigs operation, Orlando 
Urra remains nothing short of a hero and a legend in the Cuban South 
Florida community. A beloved friend and personal source of inspiration 
as he was, it is a surprise to no one that his wife, Miriam, should 
have taken up his mantel with equal strength, vigor, and dedication
  In 1981, Miriam's path took a pivotal turn as she embarked on a new 
role with the City of Miami, serving as a Counselor for the Entrant 
Assistance Program. Through her work, Miriam provided invaluable 
support to refugees, such as the Cuban Marielitos who sought refuge in 
our South Florida community, offering counseling, referrals, and 
guidance to ensure their successful integration into society.
  Miriam's dedication to community development only grew stronger as 
she transitioned to the Department of Community Development, City of 
Miami, where she served as a Community Involvement Specialist. In this 
capacity, she tirelessly advocated for residents, disseminating 
information about vital city programs and services while championing 
citizen participation in policymaking processes.
  Following the passing of her beloved husband, Orlando, Miriam retired 
from the City of Miami and embraced a new chapter as the Executive 
Director of Allapattah Community Action. Under Miriam's leadership, 
Allapattah Community Action has flourished, overseeing vital programs 
for the elderly and childcare while also championing affordable housing 
initiatives. Her visionary approach and unwavering dedication have 
transformed lives and uplifted communities.
  Miriam's influence reaches well beyond her professional achievements. 
As a pillar of our community and a cherished friend, she embodies the 
essence of what makes Allapattah great. Serving as a true leader and 
mentor to countless individuals, myself included, it's with great pride 
that I recognize her today.
  In recognition of her outstanding service and unfaltering dedication, 
I ask my colleagues to join me in expressing our deepest gratitude to 
Miriam Urra for her exemplary leadership, love, and commitment to South 
Florida.

                          ____________________