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| State Rep. James Arciero recently recognized the naming of former Westford Selectwoman Elizabeth Almeida as a 2020 Commonwealth Heroine by the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women. This year’s award event was held virtually due to the Covid-19 pandemic and was the 17th annual ceremony held at the commission.
Nominated by Arciero, Elizabeth is a strong local leader who has spearheaded efforts in town for gender-inclusive language in municipal documents. In addition, she has played an active role in the revitalization of the town’s Agricultural Commission, creation of Westford Community Garden, a 1.7 acre of land divided into 150 individual plots for Westford residents to garden, was elected to and served as a member of the town’s select board, and has founded a “Women in government” support group in the Metrowest area of the state. The purpose of the Commonwealth Heroine award is to identify and recognize extraordinary women from across the Commonwealth who make a difference in their communities. This year, the MCSW honored 133 women from across the state for their work in their communities and beyond. According to the MCSW, in selecting honorees, they seek 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. Asked about this year’s recipient, Arciero said: “It was my pleasure to nominate Elizabeth for the Massachusetts Commission on the Status of Women’s Commonwealth Heroine Award. She is a good friend and has been a strong leader on many issues in our town, but most especially on agricultural, the Westford Community Garden, and here service as a member of the Westford Select Board. It was truly an honor to nominate her for this prestigious award which recognizes her many contributions to our town.” As part of the special event, a House Resolution marking the occasion of her selection was recently presented to Almeida on the Westford Town Common to recognize her many civic and governmental activities over the years.
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