Biography
Mark Takano, born on December 10, 1960, in Riverside, California, is a Democratic member of the U.S. House of Representatives, serving California's 39th Congressional District. He made history in 2012 as the first openly gay person of color elected to Congress. Takano's family, of Japanese American descent, was interned during World War II, an experience that has profoundly influenced his commitment to civil rights and public service. Before his congressional career, he dedicated over two decades to education as a high school teacher in the Rialto Unified School District. In 1990, he was elected to the Riverside Community College District Board of Trustees, where he worked to enhance higher education and job training programs.
Education
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Bachelor of Arts in Government from Harvard University, 1983
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Master of Fine Arts in Creative Writing for the Performing Arts from the University of California, Riverside, 2010
Political Experience
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U.S. Representative for California's 39th Congressional District
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U.S. Representative for California's 41st Congressional District
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Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs
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Ranking Member of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs
- Member of the House Committee on Education and the Workforce
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Board of Trustees, Riverside Community College District
Notable Achievements
Honoring our PACT Act: As Chairman of the House Committee on Veterans' Affairs, Takano authored this comprehensive legislation addressing toxic exposure issues affecting veterans, expanding healthcare eligibility for over 3.5 million veterans exposed to burn pits, and establishing presumptions of service connection for various illnesses.
Affordable Housing Initiatives: In 2024, Takano announced $5.1 million in community funding for housing projects in California's 39th District, including the renovation of the Historic Armory Building in Fairmont Park, the expansion of the City of Perris Senior Center, and the development of affordable homes for veterans in Jurupa Valley.
LGBTQ+ Advocacy: As a co-chair of the Congressional LGBTQ+ Equality Caucus, Takano has been a steadfast advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, promoting legislation aimed at ensuring equality and protection for the community.
Education and Workforce Development: Serving on the House Committee on Education and the Workforce, Takano has focused on policies that enhance educational opportunities and workforce development, reflecting his background as an educator.
Throughout his career, Representative Takano has demonstrated a commitment to civil rights, veterans' affairs, education, and housing, striving to improve the lives of his constituents in California's 39th District.
