Judith Grove and Ilma Paixao Receive Unsung Heroine Award

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women recognized Framingham residents Judith A. Grove and Ilma Paixão as Unsung Heroines at the 12th annual ceremony held in the State House.

The goal of the Commission is to identify extraordinary women from across the Commonwealth, who are at the forefront of advancing the status of women, every year.

Grove’s efforts in tackling environmental justice issues such as cleaning up the contamination from coal tar, arsenic, and cyanide as well as tirelessly working to build a skate park in Framingham, are examples of the volunteerism that makes a difference for the Town.

“Judith’s admirable acts of public leadership contribute to the empowerment of women and all people of Framingham regarding environmental justice issues,” said State Rep. Chris Walsh, in a press release.

“The whole of Framingham and Metrowest benefit from the energy and savvy of Ilma Paixão’s efforts to forge a strong bond between our Brazilian community and the Town. It is a vibrant community and could have no one more perfectly matched to represent them,” said Rep.Walsh.

Since the 1980’s, Ilma began immersing herself in her community in Framingham and Brazilian immigrant issues, serving as a liaison between local and state committees and the Brazilian community. In addition, she created meaningful partnerships with several foundations, including the Harvard Department of Public Health. Her several local and international community development projects help further women’s rights and opportunities in the Commonwealth.

“Judith and Ilma are both terrific leaders in the Framingham community,” said Sen. Karen Spilka, a Democrat from Ashland,w ho represents Framingham, in a statement.

“This is a very well-deserved honor for two women who are actively making a difference through their volunteer work and community partnerships. We need to continue to raise up strong, female leaders across MetroWest and the Commonwealth,” said Sen. Spilka.

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women is an independent state agency created to promote full equality for women in all areas of life.