Irene Martinez

It has been a privilege to meet thousands of women who improve and change their lives, improving the world wherever they go. Their stories are an inspiration and confirm their valuable contribution to our communities. In honor of this, I have written the book, Resilience: Journeys of Latina Immigrant Women. I dedicate it to so many women who have traveled to California in search of a new life and better future. After 48 years of non-profit management and community services career, I've ventured into this new area of writing. I am inspired by the many experiences I have accumulated over the years and a need to share this with others. My rich background is coupled with a degree in Ethnic Studies/Chicano Studies and Public Health from the University of Southern California. At USC I was fortunate to embark on a creative research project on the subject of Resiliency of Latina Immigrant Women. Findings of my research are highlighted within the first pages of this book. My second book is a tribute to those who have survived wars and tragedy. People like my father who survived the Mexican Revolution in Mexico and later other difficult eras in the U.S.A. that shaped his character. Survivor: Memoirs of my father in the Mexican Revolution holds a special place in my heart as the narratives that my father recorded at 99 years old.