Biography

Delia Catalina Ramirez, born on June 2, 1983, in Chicago, Illinois, is a Democratic politician serving as the U.S. Representative for Illinois's 3rd congressional district since January 3, 2023. She is the first Latina elected to Congress from Illinois and the entire Midwest.

Raised in Chicago's Humboldt Park neighborhood by Guatemalan immigrant parents, Ramirez's early experiences with community services and social justice shaped her commitment to public service. Before her political career, she held leadership roles in various nonprofit organizations, including serving as the executive director of the Center for Changing Lives and as board chair for both the Latin United Community Housing Association and the Logan Square Neighborhood Association .

In 2018, Ramirez was elected to the Illinois House of Representatives for the 4th district, where she served two terms. During her tenure, she co-founded the Illinois House Progressive Caucus and rose to the position of Assistant Majority Leader. Her legislative achievements include expanding Medicaid coverage to senior citizens regardless of immigration status, securing over $450 million for affordable housing, protecting abortion rights, and establishing an elected school board in Chicago.

In Congress, Representative Ramirez continues to advocate for comprehensive immigration reform, housing as a human right, healthcare for all, climate justice, and the preservation of democracy. She serves on the Committee for Veterans Affairs and is the Vice-Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor of Arts in Justice Studies from Northeastern Illinois University.

• Political Experience:

  • Elected to the Illinois House of Representatives in 2018, representing the 4th district.
  • Co-founded the Illinois House Progressive Caucus.
  • Served as Assistant Majority Leader during her second term.
  • Elected to the U.S. House of Representatives for Illinois's 3rd congressional district in 2022.
  • Serves on the Committee for Veterans Affairs and as Vice-Ranking Member of the Committee on Homeland Security.

Representative Ramirez's career reflects her dedication to advocating for working families and addressing issues such as immigration reform, affordable housing, healthcare access, and education.