[Congressional Record Volume 170, Number 171 (Tuesday, November 19, 2024)]
[House]
[Page H6080]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





                   HONORING DR. SANIA CHOUDHURY IRWIN

  The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from 
Illinois (Mrs. Ramirez) for 5 minutes.
  Mrs. RAMIREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor my constituent, Dr. 
Sania Choudhury Irwin, a trailblazing civic leader from Glen Ellyn 
devoted to engaging and strengthening her community and our democracy. 
A respected leader, she works to address the important issues in our 
country, such as healthcare, education, immigration, press freedom, the 
impact of money in politics, and so much more.
  As the vice president of the League of Women Voters of the United 
States, Sania works to inform constituents, empower voters, and defend 
our democracy across the country and in Illinois' Third Congressional 
District. She also leads nonpartisan initiatives to increase voter 
participation, ensuring that our local communities make their voices 
heard.
  As the cofounder of One Community, Dr. Irwin works to advance social 
justice initiatives in DuPage County, focusing on programs and actions 
that build community. Her efforts and advocacy have resulted in the 
formation of a community relations commission in which she serves as 
the chair, spearheading policies, initiatives, and resources that 
create a more equitable and more inclusive society for all.
  On behalf of Illinois' Third Congressional District, I commend Dr. 
Irwin for her inspiring leadership, commitment to justice, and 
unwavering service to our community and our Nation. I thank Dr. Irwin.


                      Honoring Sister Marta Cichon

  Mrs. RAMIREZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize Sister Marta 
Cichon, a woman who has profoundly transformed the lives of Polish 
immigrant families and uplifted single mothers in Illinois.
  Born in Zabkowice, Poland, Sister Marta's duty to humanity has led 
her across the globe, serving in Australia before arriving in the 
United States in 2000. Here, she recognized a pressing need to support 
mothers and their children who are vulnerable to homelessness, hunger, 
and the lack of assistance.
  Ultimately, Sister Marta established a single mothers home in 2008. 
The single mothers home offers essential services, from legal 
assistance to mental health support, empowering women to rebuild their 
lives.
  For nearly 15 years, Sister Marta has provided refuge, hope, and a 
path to independence for over 140 mothers and 180 children, including 
those who have experienced domestic violence. To this day, these 
families maintain a close bond with Sister Marta, who considers them 
family.
  I commend on this day Sister Marta for her compassion, resilience, 
unwavering community service, and commitment to ensure that all of us 
are seen.
  May we be inspired by her. May we be encouraged by her and be 
reminded that it is our responsibility to serve others.
  ``Dziekuje'' ``thank you,'' Sister Marta.

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