DHS Secretary Mayorkas Honors Congressman Raul Ruiz with the Outstanding Americans by Choice Recognition

Coachella, CA – Today, Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D. (CA-25) was presented the Outstanding Americans by Choice Recognition by Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas.

“I am honored to receive the Outstanding Americans by Choice Recognition for my lifelong dedication to serve others as an emergency physician, public health expert and U.S. Representative,” said Dr. Ruiz. “It is especially meaningful to have Secretary Mayorkas present it to me at my alma mater, Coachella Valley High School, in front of students, teachers, staff, farm workers and community members whose collective struggles, hopes, and dreams have been woven into my story and have become my own and the motivation for my life’s mission. I dedicate this to my family and the people I serve, who have made me who I am.”

 “Then, as now, the people of Coachella – this community of Latinos, immigrants, hard workers, and dreamers – know Dr. Raul Ruiz: his story, his values, and what he represents,” said Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “One of my great privileges as Secretary of Homeland Security is to recognize a select group of immigrant citizens who, through their decades of service, civic participation, professional achievement, and responsible citizenship, exemplify the very best of the United States. It is a standard of excellence that Congressman Raul Ruiz, M.D., has met. It is my honor to recognize Coachella, California’s Raul Ruiz as a 2023 Department of Homeland Security Outstanding American by Choice.”

Background:

The Outstanding Americans by Choice initiative through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recognizes the outstanding achievements of naturalized U.S. citizens. Through civic participation, professional achievement, and responsible citizenship, recipients of this honor have demonstrated their commitment to this country and to the common civic values that unite us as Americans.

USCIS recognizes naturalized citizens who have made significant contributions to both their community and their adopted country on a case-by-case basis.