[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 60 (Tuesday, April 9, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E316]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




            COMMEMORATING THE PASSING OF SONIA IRIS COLLAZO

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE

                            of pennsylvania

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, April 9, 2024

  Mr. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, I rise today commemorate the 
passing of Sonia Iris Coilazo, a beloved matriarch, community advocate, 
and proud daughter of Puerto Rico. Sonia I. Collazo was born on 
February 23, 1948 in Orocovis, Puerto Rico to Alfredo Gonzalez and 
Adela Melendez de Gonzalez. She passed away in Philadelphia, 
Pennsylvania on March 26, 2024.
  Sonia's journey is one of strength and perseverance. Born and raised 
in Puerto Rico, she learned the value of community and the power of 
education from an early age. After receiving her formal education in 
Orocovis, she attended the Universidad Interamericana de PueIto Rico--
Bananquitas before moving to Philadelphia. Upon arriving in 
Philadelphia, she continued her education at Temple University and 
worked as a kindergarten teacher at Potter-Thomas School.
  She also quickly became involved in her community, becoming one of 
the first employees at Asociacion Puertorriquenos en Marcha (APM), a 
Latino-based health, human services, community, and economic 
development non-profit organization serving the Philadelphia area. 
Sonia went on to have a long and respected career in the City of 
Philadelphia's Department of Human Relations, retiring after more than 
26 years of service. She was a proud member of AFSCME District Council 
47.
  Her warmth and generosity have touched countless lives, bringing hope 
and encouragement to those in need. Whether through volunteering, 
advocacy work, or simply lending a listening ear, Sonia's impact was 
felt far and wide. Sonia's advocacy extended beyond her immediate 
circle, as she was one of the lead organizers of the `Walk for Peace,' 
an initiative that began in 1996 to address violence among young 
people. In retirement, Sonia volunteered much of her time at Congreso 
de Latinos Unidos retirees' program.
  Mr. Speaker, in recognition of her tireless efforts and unwavering 
commitment to serving others, we honor Sonia as a loving mother, 
community organizer, and champion of Puerto Rico. Her legacy inspires 
us all to strive for a more just, compassionate, and inclusive society.

                          ____________________