CHICAGO – Cook County Commissioner John Fritchey (D-12th) today named Zorytza Rodriguez as the 12th District recipient of the The 2012 Unsung Heroine Award. One extraordinary woman from each of the County Board‘s 17 districts, and one honoree from the County at large, is honored every year for her contributions to her community.
In observance of Women’s History Month, the Cook County Commission on Women’s Issues will be hosting its 15th Annual Cook County Unsung Heroine Awards breakfast on Thursday, March 15, 2012.
Zorytza is an inspiring young woman with numerous accomplishments that were achieved in spite of her struggles with simple communication, a symptom of her learning and speech disabilities. Today she speaks effectively on empowerment of youth with disabilities, and has developed into a vocal trainer and advocate of Spanish speaking girls and women like herself, specifically dealing with topics on dating violence, relationships and self-esteem.
“Zorytza’s strength and courage has set a wonderful example for many young girls and women with disabilities” said Fritchey. “Her personal perseverance in her educational and career goals is truly an inspiration to all of us.”
Women’s Commissioner Andrea Raila added, “These women are being saluted for using their time, talent, spirit and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others.”
The “Peggy A. Montes Unsung Heroine Award” is named in honor of its founder, Peggy Montes. Montes is currently the Chair of the County’s Commission on Women’s Issues. The award honors remarkable women who have not received wide-spread recognition by bringing their stories to light, thanking them, and celebrating their achievements.
The awards ceremony, which will be emceed by Ms. Merri Dee, is scheduled to be held at the Chicago Cultural Center‘s Preston Bradley Hall at 9 a.m.