February 11, 2013

Rep. Takano Announces Local Leader Mary Figueroa as Guest for President Obama’s State of The Union

Washington, DC – Today, Rep. Mark Takano (D-Riverside) announced local leader and elected official Mary Figueroa as his guest for President Obama’s 2013 State of the Union.

Since the age of 16, Ms. Figueroa has been involved in local politics and community activism in the Inland Empire area. Ms. Figueroa’s dedication to the region was recognized in 2005 as she was awarded the “Inland Empire Influential Latino of the Year Award.” In addition to serving as a correctional counselor at the California Institution for Men in Chino for twenty-one years, Ms. Figueroa has also been involved in countless organizations including, but not limited to:

Action Before Crisis Committee
Riverside Youth Development Council
San Gorgonio Girl Scout Council Board of Directors
Equal Employment Opportunity Commission
LATINO Network
Greater Riverside Hispanic Chamber of Commerce Board of Directors
State of California Attorney General’s Civil Rights Commission
NAACP
Inland Empire Hispanic Leadership Council
California Community College Trustees Board of Directors

Speaking on Ms. Figueroa’s commitment to the Inland Empire, Rep. Takano said, “For over 35 years, Mary Figueroa has served as an irreplaceable leader in our region. Through her countless roles in the community, Mary has proven time and time again her dedication towards the fight for justice and equality, which truly embodies the American spirit. I’m proud to have her as my guest for President Obama’s 2013 State of The Union and look forward to her support as we continue to strengthen our great nation.”