Biography

Shirley Arriaga is a Democratic member of the Massachusetts House of Representatives, representing the 8th Hampden District. She was first elected in November 2022 and assumed office on January 4, 2023. A lifelong resident of Chicopee, Massachusetts, Arriaga has a diverse background that includes military service, education, and community outreach. She served in the United States Air Force from 2010 to 2020, achieving the rank of Staff Sergeant and participating in the Women in Aviation Initiative. After her military service, she worked as a veterans liaison for Congressman Richard Neal and as an educator at Chicopee High School. Arriaga is also a Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Future Caucus, focusing on issues pertinent to younger generations.

Education

• Associate Degree in Liberal Arts and Sciences from Springfield Technical Community College
• Bachelor of Arts in Legal Studies and a paralegal certificate from Elms College
• Associate Degree in Aerospace, Aeronautical, and Astronautical Engineering from the Community College of the Air Force
• Master of Laws from Western New England University School of Law

Political Experience

• State Representative for the 8th Hampden District: Elected in November 2022, assumed office on January 4, 2023
• Co-Chair of the Massachusetts Future Caucus: Focuses on issues affecting younger generations
• Veterans Liaison for Congressman Richard Neal: Assisted veterans in accessing services and benefits
• Educator at Chicopee High School: Taught and mentored students in her hometown
• Candidate for Chicopee City Councilor At-Large: Ran for office in 2021, emphasizing community engagement and public service

Arriaga's legislative priorities include housing stability, education, and veterans' services. She co-sponsored the Healthy Homes bill to address housing conditions and has advocated for universal free school meals and free community college.