The 31 days of the month of March is dedicated to celebrating Women’s History. What better way to celebrate, than begin to focus on local women who have contributed our city.
Let us start with Rosa Rosales who is a well-known activist for immigration reform and Latino issues. A beloved member of the local community she is revered by many to include myself for her willingness to stand up for the weak and disenfranchised and fight for human dignity when she sees it is being abused.
Rosa is a Past National LULAC President having served four terms as the organization’s national spokesperson. What makes her so unique is her dignified and maternal demeanor that at times can quickly escalate into passionate fiery rhetoric when challenged to defend the underdog and those she feel are being discriminated against.
When necessary, she lets her adversaries know that she is not to be trifled with or summarily dismissed as someone not familiar with the issue at hand. When she addresses Latino issues she is prepared, speaks articulately, passionately and will not hesitate to take her antagonist to task.
Another local female Hispanic icon includes international singing sensation Patsy Torres, PhD. She is also a motivational speaker encouraging young Hispanic women to follow their dream of success like she did whether it in music, science, medicine or other fields of their choosing.
I have seen her perform many times. She received her Master’s Degree and Ph.D from Incarnate Word University as well. Many years ago I received a Master’s Degree from Incarnate Word College.
How about Maria Berriozabal? She is one of the classiest women I know, and I know a few. She represented District 1 as a councilwoman for many years and I believe she is far from done in making San Antonio a much better place. I hope I am there when she does it. I will keep my camera handy just in case so I can document it
Berriozabal also made history becoming the first Mexican American woman elected by the San Antonio City Council, and serving 10 years.
Then there is former State Senator Leticia (San Miguel) van de Putte who I have known personally for a long time. I was thrilled to be invited by her to the legislature in Austin to testify on behalf of Veterans. I was also there when she announced her run for Texas Lt. Governor.
Who knew political activist Choco Meza who was the Bexar County Democratic Party Chair and who later worked on former Presidential candidate Hillary Clinton’s campaign before she unexpectedly passed before the former first lady received the nomination.
Then there is international singing legend Vikki Carr an El Paso native but who also has a home and resides in San Antonio. Considered a legendary star of the stage and screen, Carr has been a major influence for over 50 years with her sheer presence.
She is one of the best loved and certainly most accomplished entertainers in the US, Latin America and Europe. In her lengthy career she has garnered four Grammys to include a Lifetime Achievement Award from the Recording Academy and has released over 60 best-selling recordings. She has literally paved the way for other artists. I covered her twice here in San Antonio.
With March being celebrated as the month of Women, we can celebrate all women and those here who have made a difference.