Born in New York just before the start of World War II, Rodríguez Remeneski was typical of many Puerto Rican children growing up in the Diaspora. She became the go-between; the translator for newly arrived Puerto Ricans and other immigrants. Educated in the New York City schools, Rodríguez Remeneski became a clerical worker, married and raised a family as was expected of her generational peers. But the turbulent 1960s brought increased awareness about the marginalization of Puerto Ricans in the city, and awakened Rodríguez Remeneski’s concern for social justice. In 1966 she began a career in public service with the Office of the Bronx Borough President. Five years later she helped draft federal legislation for the Bilingual Education Act and the Voting Rights Act. She became district administrator for the New York State Department of Labor and later headed the Governor’s Office for Hispanic Affairs. Founder and president of the 100 Hispanic Women’s organization, Rodríguez Remeneski continues to exert leadership committed to advocating and promoting the empowerment of Latina women.

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Latinas in the United States Latina Styles NYC Commission of Women’s Issue The Gale Group Images