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

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

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 60 (Monday, March 30, 2026) [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. ____________________