Nydia M. Velázquez

Providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by the Bureau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to the withdrawal of the rule relating to "Consumer Financial Protection Circular 2024-05: Improper Overdraft Opt-In Practices".

in committee

To clarify eligibility for small business loans, and for other purposes.

in committee

To amend the Small Business Act to establish an Office of Territorial Affairs, and for other purposes.

in committee

“Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the extraordinary life and legacy of Minerva Solla, a tireless advocate for working people, whose commitment to justice, dignity, and human rights has spanned more than five decades. I recognize her in honor of Women's History Month. From her earliest days as a community organizer in New York City, Minerva has dedicated her life to empowering workers and strengthening communities. Her journey into labor activism began at the early age of 15 years old while working part-time at Bell Telephone, where a strike by the Communications Workers of America opened her eyes to the transformative power of organized labor. In 1972, while working at Roosevelt Hospital, Minerva helped lead a historic 47-day strike that resulted in union representation through 1199SEIU. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a lifelong commitment to the labor movement. She went on to serve in numerous organizing roles within 1199, helping to build it into one of the most influential unions in the Nation while organizing workers across New York City and the Hudson Valley. Since knowing her, Minerva has been a proud champion of social justice and Puerto Rican cultural heritage. She founded the 1199 Latinos Unidos Committee, uplifting Latino voices within the labor movement and beyond. Her leadership extended into cultural advocacy across New York State, as well as humanitarian efforts, including coordinating medical missions in the aftermath of Hurricane Maria. Even in retirement, Minerva never wavered. Through her work with the New York State Nurses Association, she has led political action campaigns and played a key role in advancing landmark legislation, including Paid Family Leave and the Safe Staffing for Quality Care Act. Today, Minerva continues to serve her community with distinction as Chairperson of the Red Carpet for Social Justice Women's Coalition, Executive Vice President of the Westchester Chapter of the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (AFL-CIO), and Vice President of the Retiree Division of 1199SEIU United Healthcare Workers East. Her presence remains a powerful force in community organizing, labor advocacy, and social justice movements. Her unwavering dedication continues to inspire generations of leaders and advocates. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in recognizing Ms. Minerva Solla for her remarkable contributions and lifelong commitment to workers' rights, cultural pride, and community empowerment. Her legacy stands as a beacon of hope and a call to action for us all. ____________________”

2026-04-02 · Labor

“Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to extend my heartfelt birthday wishes to Ms. Hattie White as she celebrates her remarkable 100th birthday. Born in 1925, she lived in the vibrant Bedford Stuyvesant community in Brooklyn, New York. A community known for its rich African American heritage, social activism, and brownstone homes that reflected the pride of homeownership among neighbors. In fact, at a time when homeownership was not easily attainable, Ms. White owned a home where she provided her seven children with a stable and nurturing environment. Ms. Hattie lived a life characterized by hard work, resilience, adaptability, and faith. Her life spanned historical events in our society, from the Great Depression, World War II, to the Civil Rights Movement, the cultural shifts of the 1960's and 70's and the advancements in technology. These events shaped her experiences and perspectives, further strengthening her resolve. In addition to her family, Ms. Hattie has been and remains a devoted member of the Zion Shiloh Baptist Church. Her unwavering faith and commitment to the church community have made her a beloved figure among her fellow congregants. She is a respected elder of the church who is renowned for her years of leadership roles, community service, and guiding her congregation. Her compassion and generosity have touched the lives of many in Brooklyn, making her a true beacon of hope and inspiration. Ms. Hattie White exemplifies a remarkable legacy of longevity, resilience and a proud spirit of service. She is cherished by her family and friends, who are deeply grateful for her unconditional love and friendship. I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Ms. Hattie White, one of our Nation's Centenarians, on this special occasion of her 100th year birthday. [[Page E906]] ____________________”

2025-09-26 · Government Reform

“Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor Josie Mota Gomez, a visionary in education, lifelong advocate for youth, and social justice. For more than three decades, Josie has been a pillar of the El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice, located in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, her hometown. Josie's journey began on a snowy day in February 1975, when she arrived in New York City from the Dominican Republic to reunite with her mother, Melida, who labored for years in a factory to provide a better future for her children. That act of sacrifice would leave an indelible mark on Josie, instilling in her the values of strength, perseverance and service. Accordingly, she began her formal education at Our Savior School in Williamsburg, learning English and discovering the value of community in a building that would later become home to El Puente Academy--the very school she would help shape decades later. After attending the High School of Fashion Industries, Josie pursued her passion for communication and earned a degree in Speech Communications from Pace University. A brief stint in the corporate world left her unfulfilled--but a chance meeting with El Puente co- founders Dr. Frances Lucerna and Luis Garden-Acosta changed everything. In 1991, she joined El Puente as a community liaison, launching a lifelong commitment to youth, education, and social justice. In 1993, Josie played a critical role in the founding of the El Puente Academy for Peace and Justice, the first public high school in the country centered on human rights and social justice. She has served the school for 32 of its 34-year history--guiding students, families, and fellow educators through every transition and triumph. Her leadership has shaped the Academy's identity, grounded in the belief that we are not just here to study history, but to make history. Along the way, she earned a master's in education from Long Island University and a bilingual counseling license from Brooklyn College, yet she has always been defined not by titles, but by the deep relationships she has built. Josie walks with young people and their families, lifting them up, meeting them where they are, and helping them believe in their own power. El Puente is not just a workplace for Josie--it is her family. Her four children were raised in its community, and her unwavering presence has come to symbolize its mission. Josie's journey is a testament to the immigrant experience rooted in sacrifice, shaped by resilience and driven by the hope of a better future. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring Josie Mota Gomez on this special occasion of her retirement. I extend my deepest gratitude for her public service and wish her joy in this next chapter of life. ____________________”

2025-07-10 · Education