[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 62 (Thursday, April 11, 2024)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E332]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                        TRIBUTE TO LUPE MARTINEZ

                                 ______
                                 

                            HON. GWEN MOORE

                              of wisconsin

                    in the house of representatives

                        Thursday, April 11, 2024

  Ms. MOORE of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, I rise today with great respect 
and admiration to honor the extraordinary life and contributions of 
Lupe Martinez, President and Chief Executive Officer of UMOS, as he 
transitions into the esteemed newly created title and role of President 
Emeritus.
  For an impressive fifty-four years, forty-nine of which he served as 
President and Chief Executive Officer, Lupe Martinez dedicated his 
boundless energy, unwavering commitment, and visionary leadership to 
UMOS, a non-profit advocacy organization tirelessly working to improve 
the lives of under-served populations across Wisconsin and beyond.
  Under his steadfast guidance, UMOS has evolved from its humble 
origins in Milwaukee to become one of the largest Hispanic-managed non-
profits in Wisconsin and one of the most expansive multi-state 
nonprofit corporations in the United States. Through his strategic 
vision and tireless advocacy, Lupe has overseen the expansion of UMOS's 
reach into seven states, securing over $100 million in contracts and 
ensuring vital programs and services are accessible to those in need. 
Lupe served as a unifying force, reaching out to fellow citizens 
regardless of then ethnic backgrounds and mobilizing them toward a 
shared purpose that transcended personal boundaries and influenced all 
involved groups.
  Lupe Martinez's dedication to empowering others and fostering long-
term sustainability for UMOS exemplifies his decision to step back from 
day-to-day management, which provides opportunities for others to step 
up into leadership positions. As he assumes the role of President 
Emeritus, Lupe remains steadfast in his commitment to the organization, 
focusing on long-range planning, strategic partnerships, securing 
funding, and assisting with the transition to new leadership.
  Throughout his illustrious career, Lupe Martinez has been a tireless 
champion for migrant and seasonal farm workers and other marginalized 
communities, locally and nationally. His advocacy efforts have extended 
to the highest levels of government, where he has served on numerous 
boards and councils, including the National Farmworker Alliance, 
Farmworker Justice, and the Wisconsin Council on Migrant Labor.
  Lupe's impact transcends organizational boundaries, as evidenced by 
his involvement in community events and organizations such as the 
Mexican Fiesta and the Employ Milwaukee Workforce Investment Board. His 
relentless pursuit of social justice and equity has garnered widespread 
recognition, earning him prestigious awards such as the Hispanic 
Heritage Leadership Award from the Green Bay Packers Foundation and the 
Lifetime Achievement Award from the Hispanic Professionals of Greater 
Milwaukee.
  Mr. Speaker, for these reasons, I am honored to have this opportunity 
to pay tribute to Lupe Martinez for his impeccable service to 
Milwaukeeans, Wisconsinites, and Americans everywhere. May his legacy 
inspire us all to continue building a more just and equitable society 
for generations.

                          ____________________