[Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E293]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]





HONORING MARITZA FROST AS A DISTINGUISHED LEADER IN CENTRAL FLORIDA FOR 
                         WOMEN'S HISTORY MONTH

                                  _____
                                 

                            HON. DARREN SOTO

                               of florida

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 30, 2026

  Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Maritza Frost as a 
Distinguished Leader in Central Florida for Women's History Month. At 
the age of 12, Maritza Frost said goodbye to her paternal grandparents, 
Jose and Sarah, never to see them again. Cuba was not a place that 
would welcome her back.
  With a happy heart, she came to ``The Land of the Free'' in the 
company of her father, Jose, mother, Zenaida, and sister, Sandra. Her 
new journey began.
  She started school shortly after her arrival, soon realizing the 
challenge of learning a new language and a new culture was monumental 
but not impossible. She took the challenge because she knew, deep in 
her heart, that with God's help, all things were possible.
  Several years later, she married into the American culture, His name: 
Patrick. Later in life, she had two wonderful children, Maxwell 
Alejandro and Maria Elizabeth.
  Upon marrying, Ohio became her new home. There, she found the 
opportunity to complete her education and became a special education 
teacher. She worked diligently for 37 years, of which 32 were dedicated 
to the Osceola County School System.
  Retirement brought more opportunities. She found herself connecting 
with different local organizations, developing a deep and profound 
connection with Moms Demand Action, where she currently serves as a 
Survivor Lead in Orange County.
  As she navigated through different channels, she joined LULAC (League 
of United Latin American Citizens), the Women's Voter Club of S. 
Orange, and the Lake Nona Democrats, as well as the Orange County 
Democrats, where she serves as Delegate. Through her state 
representatives, she is frequently involved in canvassing, phone 
banking, and other local events.
  Never losing sight of her roots, she became extremely passionate 
about immigration issues and became active with Immigrants Are Welcome 
Here and the Faith Leadership Coalition.
  Marches, protests, commissioners, school board and immigration 
building morning meetings, and more fill her days.
  Never a dull moment. Christ said, ``Love thy neighbor,'' and that is 
all she wants to do.

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