Texas Border Business
By Roberto Hugo González
Harlingen Mayor Norma Sepulveda has carved a path that exemplifies resilience, purpose, and a firm commitment to justice. Born and raised in Harlingen, Texas, Sepulveda has not only become a formidable voice in immigration law but also made history in 2022 by becoming the city’s first female mayor. Her journey marked by humble beginnings, personal sacrifice, and bold leadership has inspired countless individuals across the region and earned her the well-deserved recognition as a Woman of Distinction in the Justice and Legal Advocacy category by the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce.
Photo by Roberto Hugo González
“I feel proud to be selected as a Woman of Distinction in the Justice and Legal Advocacy category,” Sepulveda said in her heartfelt acceptance. “I sincerely thank the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for this incredible recognition and all they do to empower women across our region.”
Sepulveda’s story reminds us that one’s starting point does not determine the destination. The first in her family to attend college and law school, she graduated with a bachelor’s degree from the University of Texas at Brownsville. She later earned her Juris Doctor from Thurgood Marshall School of Law. Since 2010, she has practiced law, founding and managing her firm, the Law Office of Norma Sepulveda, LLC.
“My profession and my passion are immigration law,” she stated. “As an immigration attorney, I have the privilege of helping people from all over the world come to the United States to work, study, invest, and reunite with their families. But beyond that, I also stand alongside those seeking justice, navigating a system that can feel overwhelming and uncertain.”
Her practice has focused on representing the working-class population, particularly in immigration and criminal court. Over the past decade, Sepulveda has provided legal services to thousands of clients, including countless victims of domestic violence who found the strength to leave abusive situations with her support. She has handled hundreds of cases in immigration court and represented thousands more before the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), the Board of Immigration Appeals, and U.S. consulates worldwide.
“This work has reinforced my belief that advocacy matters, that when we uplift others, we strengthen our entire community,” she said.
Her commitment to public service and social justice runs deep, inspired mainly by her late mother, a woman of deep faith and compassion. “She was often sick and in pain, but her faith never wavered. Even in our hardest moments, she continued to pray for others, offering comfort and strength,” Sepulveda reflected. “Her resilience and compassion taught me that true strength isn’t just about overcoming challenges; it’s about showing up for others even when you’re struggling yourself.”
These life lessons shaped Sepulveda’s approach to law and leadership. In May 2022, she became Harlingen’s mayor, stepping into a volunteer role with a professional’s heart and a servant’s vision. Her tenure has already marked historic achievements and bold initiatives.
Under her leadership, Harlingen experienced record-breaking growth, with over $176 million in building permit valuations in 2023 alone. The city has welcomed new investments, including the Bert Ogden Auto Group’s dealerships, Black Bear Diner, and Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott, which are bringing jobs and economic revitalization to the community. “This growth isn’t just numbers,” Sepulveda emphasized. “It means jobs, opportunities, and a stronger future for Harlingen families.”
She has also made fiscal responsibility a cornerstone of her administration. The city reduced its tax rate by 10% to $0.54 per $100 valuation — Harlingen’s lowest rate in over 20 years. “We’re making smart choices, saving taxpayer dollars, and investing those savings right back into our community,” she said. Among those savings was approximately $1.2 million achieved by completing key infrastructure projects such as the Hale Ditch and Dixieland Sidewalk improvements in-house.
One of her proudest accomplishments is her support for small businesses. Creating the Small Business Advisory Committee and launching local grants brought over $400,000 in investment to local entrepreneurs. Additionally, she introduced the RISE Up Harlingen Pitch Competition, offering a $30,000 prize to help startups thrive. “We believe in the dreams of our small business owners. RISE Up is our way of saying: we see you, support you, and want you to succeed.”
Mayor Sepulveda has also prioritized infrastructure and public safety. Under her guidance, the city created a dedicated drainage department and undertook flood mitigation projects like the Lozano Detention Facility. She ensured public servants were rewarded for their efforts: the police department saw a $1.35 million funding increase, and firefighters received structured pay raises over three years.
Throughout her time in office, Sepulveda has kept the community at the center of her vision. Recreational enhancements like the new one-mile trail at Lon C. Hill Destination Park and events such as the Showdown at the Arroyo II Mountain Bike Race have enriched residents’ quality of life. These improvements reflect her commitment to making Harlingen not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.
“I never imagined that I would one day be a lawyer, let alone the mayor of my hometown,” she shared. “But I hope young girls see my journey and know that if I did it, so can they.”
Her story is not just about overcoming obstacles — it’s about rising with purpose. One of the most crucial moments in her early career came when she left a demanding law firm job where her worth was underappreciated. “I was a baby lawyer working 60-hour weeks, and I just didn’t feel appreciated,” she recalled. “When I asked for a raise, I wasn’t offered what I knew I was worth. That was a turning point. I took a leap of faith and opened my practice — it was the best decision for my professional growth. It taught me to bet on myself, to know my value, and to never settle for less.”
Looking back, Sepulveda reflects on the importance of presence and connection. “If I could give advice to my younger self, I’d say slow down and enjoy the moment. I was always in a rush to grow up, always thinking ahead. But now I realize life isn’t about reaching milestones — it’s about the moments in between.”
Her journey inspires others — particularly women who forge their paths in male-dominated spaces. “To the Rio Grande Valley women, be passionate about what you do. If you don’t love it, it’s not your passion. And remember, it is never too late to start, to change direction, or to chase the dreams that set your soul on fire.”
Mayor Sepulveda’s recognition by the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce celebrates her achievements and pays tribute to the values she embodies of justice, service, faith, and fearlessness. The Chamber’s work highlighting and supporting women in leadership is helping reshape the region’s future.
“Thank you again to the RGV Hispanic Chamber of Commerce for this incredible honor and for all that you do to uplift and strengthen our region,” she said in closing. “And to all the women being recognized tonight —congratulations. Your dedication, resilience, and achievements are an inspiration, and it’s an honor to stand alongside every one of you.”
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