WASHINGTON, D.C. – Mayor Manny Diaz was honored at a ceremony on Wednesday, January 24 in the White House receiving the “Outstanding American by Choice” award from the director of the United States Citizenship and Immigration Service (USCIS), Emilio T. Gonzalez.
“As an immigrant, one can only hope to give back to your adopted country, in however small a way, in gratitude for the opportunities you are given,” said Mayor Diaz. “I am humbled by his honor and will continue to work toward expanding the American Dream to all.”
Mayor Diaz was honored alongside motion picture director Alejandro Monteverde, Georgetown University School of Business professor Dr. Ricardo Ernst, and attorney and community leader Miguel Orozco.
The Outstanding American by Choice award recognizes the outstanding achievements of naturalized U.S. citizens whom through civic participation, professional achievement, and responsible citizenship, have demonstrated their commitment to this country and to the common civic values that create the fabric of America. The award is given to naturalized citizens that have made significant contributions to both their community and their adopted country.
“Having arrived to this country as a small child, Manny Diaz made the best of what was given him though his work as the mayor of Miami, as an attorney, and as a constant crusader in the fight against discrimination toward minorities,” said Director Emilio T. Gonzalez. “He truly exemplifies the fruition of the American Dream and deserves recognition as such.”
Past recipients of the award include U.S. Senator Mel Martinez, U.S. Congress members Thomas Peter Lantos and Ileana Ros-Lehtinen, U.S. Secretary of Commerce Carlos Gutierrez, and other remarkable naturalized citizens.
