Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, born Ileana Ros y Adato on July 15, 1952, in Havana, Cuba, experienced a childhood marked by both the beauty of Cuba and the turmoil of the Cuban Revolution. Her parents, Amanda Adato and Enrique Ros, instilled in her a love for education and a strong work ethic. In 1960, the Ros family made the difficult decision to flee Cuba and start a new life in the United States, settling in Florida.
Ros-Lehtinen's passion for knowledge led her to earn her bachelor's and master's degrees from Florida International University. She continued her education at the University of Miami, where she obtained a doctorate in Education. Armed with a strong educational foundation, she embarked on a career in academia, teaching and shaping the minds of young students.
It was during her time as an educator that Ros-Lehtinen felt the call to serve her community in a different capacity. She entered politics as a member of the Florida House of Representatives, where she quickly made a name for herself as a dedicated and effective leader. Her commitment to public service and her unwavering values soon caught the attention of the Republican Party.
In 1989, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen made history by becoming the first Latina, the first female Florida Republican, and the first Cuban-born person to serve in the United States Congress. Throughout her tenure as a United States Representative from Florida's 18th and 27th congressional districts, she championed important issues such as education, healthcare, and national security. Ros-Lehtinen's leadership and bipartisan approach earned her respect from colleagues on both sides of the aisle.
Ros-Lehtinen's expertise in foreign affairs and her dedication to promoting democracy around the world led her to briefly chair the House Foreign Affairs Committee. In this role, she played a pivotal role in shaping U.S. foreign policy and advocating for human rights on the global stage. Her unwavering commitment to freedom and democracy earned her admiration from allies and adversaries alike.
Despite her demanding career in politics, Ileana Ros-Lehtinen always made time for her family. Her marriage to attorney Dexter Lehtinen resulted in two children: Patricia and transgender activist Rodrigo, formerly known as Amanda. Ros-Lehtinen's personal experiences as a mother and advocate for LGBTQ rights have shaped her perspective on social issues and fortified her dedication to equality for all.
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