(Boston—6/14/24) Today, at the Massachusetts State House in Boston, the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women celebrated the 2024 class of Commonwealth Heroines, a title reserved for women across the Commonwealth who make outstanding contributions to their organizations and in their communities.

This year Senator Feeney had the honor of nominating Ethel Garvin of Attleboro as a Commonwealth Heroine for her inspiring work as a community activist.

Ethel Garvin is an Attleboro resident and local activist for racial equity and justice in the community. Through her work as the Chairwoman of the Reverend Dr. Martin Luther King Memorial Committee of Greater Attleboro, Ethel supports the African American community in the city as well as leads an annual observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Holiday, which showcases the message and legacy of Dr. King. Each year, Ethel and the Committee join with the citizens of Attleboro to remember Dr. Kings message of “equality, justice, and peace.” The committee also provides scholarships and other academic programs and contests for the youth in the community as well as provides donations to local charities. Ethel has enriched the City of Attleboro by serving the community through her dedication to education, activism, and the legacy of Dr. King.

“When I think of what it means to be a heroine among us, Ethel Garvin immediately jumps to mind for her local leadership and activism for racial justice. It is an honor to have the opportunity to nominate such an impactful and cherished member of our community to acknowledge her importance for shepherding the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and to celebrate her outstanding character as a steward for justice in the greater Attleboro area,” said Senator Feeney (D-Foxborough). “I also want to recognize an additional 2024 Commonwealth Heroine from the Bristol and Norfolk District, Amy LaBrache of Foxborough, nominated by State Representative Jay Barrows (R-Mansfield). Congratulations to both Ethel and Amy, and I wish them all the best in their future endeavors!” added Feeney.

About the Massachusetts Commonwealth Heroines Event: 

The Commonwealth Heroines are women who don’t make the news, but make the difference. Thousands of women in every community of the state perform unheralded acts on a daily basis that make our homes, neighborhoods, cities, and towns better places to live. Commonwealth Heroines use their time, talent, spirit, and enthusiasm to enrich the lives of others in their community. They are mentors, volunteers, and innovators who strive to protect and represent the interests of seniors, victims of violence, children, immigrants, and other vulnerable populations. They are the glue that keeps a community together.

The Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women (MCSW) is an independent state agency legislatively created in 1998 to advance women of the Commonwealth to full equality in all areas of life and to promote their rights and opportunities. The MCSW provides a permanent, effective voice for the women of Massachusetts.

Pictured above: Ethel Garvin at right, with her family at the Massachusetts State House.

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