[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 154 (2008), Part 18]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Pages 24245-24246]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




                       IN HONOR OF JOHANNA OROZCO

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                      Wednesday, November 19, 2008

  Mr. KUCINICH. Madam Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
Johanna Orozco. Her courage, personal strength and concern for others 
in the wake of unimaginable personal tragedy nearly two years ago at 
the young age of fifteen, has lifted her into the rare and inspiring 
platform as a champion of women's rights. Her activism has inspired 
people of all ages throughout our Greater Cleveland community, 
especially young women who are vulnerable to domestic violence.

[[Page 24246]]

  Ms. Orozco did not only survive the vicious attack by her ex-
boyfriend, she has reached out as an activist, speaking openly on high 
school and college campuses. She selflessly shares her own painful 
experience in order to educate and protect others from unhealthy 
relationships and domestic violence. Despite her near death, she 
battled to recover, rising a stronger and wiser individual. Through 
every painful phase of her rehabilitation and surgeries, Ms. Orozco 
reflects grace and dignity.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of Johanna Orozco, who has transformed her personal tragedy into 
triumph. She has emerged with strength, determination and an optimistic 
view for her future. She continues to inspire those who have been 
privileged to meet and know her. I look forward to her future 
achievements. Johanna Orozco is a heroin among us, and our community 
will continue to support her as she recovers.
  Madam Speaker and colleagues, please join me in honor and gratitude 
of Johanna Orozco, whose remarkable story and activism will forever 
have an impact on our community. May her courage continue to serve as 
an inspiration for us all.

                          ____________________