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Congresswoman Ramirez, State Rep Jiménez, Alderperson Fuentes File Resolution Celebrating the Groundbreaking Contributions of Latinas

March 20, 2024

Washington, DC—Today, in observation of Women’s History Month, Congresswoman Delia C. Ramirez (IL-03), Illinois State Representative Lilian Jiménez (D-4th), and Chicago Alderperson Jessie Fuentes (26th Ward) announced the introduction of joint resolutions that recognize the cultural, economic, and political contributions of Latinas in the State of Illinois, Illinois’ Third Congressional District, and the nation. At a time when Latinas represent a fast-rising 9.3 percent of the national population, the resolutions uplift the impact of Latinas in elected positions and recognize the urgent need for major representation.

The representatives affirm that the work of Latinas at all levels of government in the State of Illinois has resulted in:

  • the codification of women’s rights
  • the expansion of health care for undocumented people, 
  • the strengthening of a multicultural, multigenerational movement that acknowledges the shared humanity of others, and more.

“I am fortunate and inspired to be surrounded by the persistence and resilience of strong Latinas, starting with my own mother María Elvira Ramirez. Today, as the first congresista Latina from the Midwest, I have the honor to join Rep Jimenez and Alderperson Jessie Fuentes to uplift the voices of our hermanas, madres, and mentors fighting for equity and parity, shaping our nation, and revolutionizing our economy,” said Congresswoman Ramirez. “So many of us, including the women listed on the resolution, have been elected to public office in the past five years, but our lives embody public service. We stand on the shoulders of mothers, madrinas, hermanas, mentors, and unsung women who have championed us. Latinas are marking history in their own capacity—whether it be in politics, the private sector, or in our communities. There is no doubt: las latinas estamos construyendo nuestro futuro y fortaleciendo nuestra democracia.”

“From village clerks to state senators, Latinas in Illinois are not only making history but rewriting its narrative. Their advocacy has fueled tangible progress, from advancing women’s rights to expanding healthcare access for all. I firmly believe that the future of our democracy lies in diversity and inclusion. Let us stand together in celebration of Latina resilience, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our communities,” said IL State Rep. Jiménez. 

"As a proud Latina serving my first term in elected office, I am deeply honored to stand alongside Congresswoman Delia Ramirez and State Representative Lilian Jimenez in celebrating the remarkable contributions Latinas are making to the State of Illinois. This joint resolution not only recognizes the strides we've made in enhancing Latina representation in government but also underscores our shared commitment to achieving equitable representation across all sectors. As our community grows in Chicago and beyond, now more than ever, we must uplift the impact of Latinas in shaping our policies, driving economic prosperity, and enriching our political landscape," said Alderperson Jessie Fuentes.

The resolutions resolve that the City of Chicago, the General Assembly of Illinois, and the House of Representatives: 

  • celebrate the impact and contributions of Latinas in the State of Illinois;
  • acknowledge the value of Latinas and the essential role they play in the Nation’s multicultural, multigenerational democracy; and
  • recognize the importance of accurate data about Latinas and the role the Census Bureau plays in delivering data that impacts the political and economic power, influence, and well-being of Latinas.

To read the full text of the resolution CLICK HERE.

Issues: Congress