Hispanic Heritage Month: Recognizing Role Models and Commemorative Celebrations 

Councilwoman Heidi Garrido:

Sonia Sotomayor, the first Latina to serve on the Supreme Court; Luisa Moreno, because she was a tireless advocate for women and immigrant laborer rights; Michelle Bachelet, first female president of Chile (my country of origin). 

Councilman Jaime Patiño:

Of course, Cesar Chavez was an early hero of mine, but also former California State Supreme Court Justice Cruz Reynoso, former Ambassador Gaddi Vasquez, Ritchie Valens, and many others who paved the way for others like me to be successful in the path we have chosen. Ritchie Valens and many others paved the way for others like me to be successful in the path we have chosen. 

Councilwoman Linda Becquer Pritchett:

My aunt, Celia Cruz, and my father Orlando Becquer who was a veteran.

Councilmember Adam Bazaldua:

I don’t have one role model in particular, but I believe I am most inspired by the lives and even deaths of both Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and President John F. Kennedy. I believe their contributions to our society put us on a much more equitable trajectory, and they gave every piece of their being to make it happen. They prioritized a mission that was much larger than either one of them and made sacrifices, including standing firm against pressures and hate, in order to accomplish that mission.   

Commissioner Ann Marie Torres:

First and foremost, I have to say my mother is my first role model. God rest her soul, my other, Sylvia Sanchez Sandoval, who grew up in a time of so much adversity, encountered extremely difficult obstacles from the young age of 10. And through all this, she was married for 53 years, raised four children who have served in the United States military and have obtained their bachelor’s degrees, continue with their graduate studies, and continue to serve their community and nation. Through her guidance and love, my mother established a legacy of college graduates when she and her descendants barely received a public school education. She now has children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who are obtaining and have obtained college degrees and serve this great country in the military. 

Councilwoman Paula Blackmon:

My Aunt Nena Ariaz Monserrat.

Councilwoman Jennifer Torres-O’Callaghan:

I consider Chief Justice Sonia Sotomayor to be my role model. She is the first Latina to serve on the Supreme Court. She serves with a true understanding of the fabric of the Constitution and an eye to true democracy and supports the rights of all. 

Mayor Celina R. Benitez:

My mother is my role model. She is a fighter and a visionary. She always believed in us, making sure she worked really hard to make sure we had access and opportunities to education, sports, and knew the importance of giving back and standing up for justice. I wouldn’t be the person I am today and care as much as I care for the community if it wasn’t for her. My mom would share with others the little that she had and taught us where there is food for one, there is food for more. I work hard to be a role model to my daughter, give her love, and show her the importance of education, the environment, building community, and for her to have a strong relationship with my mom so the magic can be carried on with twice as much love and dedication.