Congressman Garamendi Honors 54 Women of the Year in Benicia
UPDATE: Congressman John Garamendi awarded the prestigious 2025 Women of the Year Awards on Friday at Benicia’s Clock Tower, recognizing an inspiring 54 women for their exceptional contributions in California’s 8th Congressional District. This event highlights the vital roles played by local politicians, veterans, and community advocates in shaping their neighborhoods.
JUST IN: Among the honorees, 36 women hailed from Solano County, including remarkable leaders from Vallejo and Vacaville. During the ceremony, Patty Garamendi introduced her husband and expressed gratitude for the honorees’ unwavering commitment to community service. “It is the undeniable strength in women… that has brought so many of you here today,” she stated.
Garamendi emphasized the importance of these awards, describing them as his and Patty’s favorite event each year. “You have a vision about what your community needs, and you will push forward,” he said, urging awardees to remain positive amidst “troubling times” in the political landscape.
The congressman acknowledged the challenges ahead due to reduced federal support following budget cuts earlier this year. “We’re not going to bring buckets of money,” he stated, reflecting on the impact of decisions made by former President Donald Trump and congressional Republicans.
Currently, constituents are facing staggering increases in healthcare costs. Garamendi revealed that one woman in his district will see her monthly premiums jump from $800 to $2,200 for herself and her husband, underscoring the pressing need for healthcare reform. “We simply decided we will not stand aside,” he asserted.
The congressman also addressed the ongoing government shutdown, placing the blame on Republican tax cuts that primarily benefit the wealthy. “That created a huge deficit,” he explained, emphasizing the critical need to fund essential programs like SNAP and Medicaid. “This shutdown could end this afternoon,” he urged, calling for immediate action from his colleagues.
Highlighting the awardees’ achievements, Gloria Malgapo of Vacaville was recognized for her leadership with the APAPA organization, which engages youth in civic life. Garamendi praised her lifelong commitment to public service, stating, “Gloria is being honored today for her trailblazing commitment.”
Vallejo’s Mayor Andrea Sorce, though absent, was also honored for her dedication to advocacy and transparency. Garamendi remarked, “She embodies public service with courage, passion, and purpose,” noting her efforts to hold over 30 public meetings since taking office.
Awardee Fatimah Hanif shared her gratitude for recognition in trauma-informed leadership. “It feels wonderful to be recognized,” she said, emphasizing that the smiles of those she serves are what truly motivate her. “Seeing the faces and the smiles… keeps me going,” she added.
The ceremony concluded with emotional reflections from both Garamendi and Patty, who reminded the awardees that their names will be permanently recorded in the congressional record, marking their legacy in American history. “The entire world is in California, so we have to make sure the door is open,” Garamendi stated, reaffirming his commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.
As the community rallies around these remarkable women, the urgency for action on pressing issues continues to grow. The 2025 Women of the Year Awards not only celebrate individual achievements but also highlight the collective strength of women dedicated to making their communities better.
Stay tuned for more updates on government actions and the ongoing challenges facing constituents across the nation.
