SPRINGFIELD – The Illinois Senate Democratic Caucus welcomes a new member - Javier Cervantes.

With deep roots in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, Cervantes has a passion for community organizing and the creative arts. Cervantes passion and dedication led him to his career path at Service Employees International (SEIU Health Care Illinois and Indiana), dedicating 12 years as a union representative in this field.

“I am honored to serve the communities of the 1^st Senate District of Illinois and I look forward to all that we can accomplish together,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “This honor comes at the resignation of my predecessor and I ensure the communities of my district that I will live up to his legacy and continue pushing Illinois in the right direction.”

He ascended upwardly through the ranks, first working in the union’s call center, then in its representational department, and finally becoming a nursing home division coordinator. He successfully led a handful of contract campaigns that resulted in substantial wage increases, affordable health insurance, and retirement benefits.

Cervantes has a strong record of fighting for the working class and is looking forward to his public service work.

The appointment of Cervantes comes after former Senator Tony Munoz resigned after over two decades of service. The Chicago Democrat looks to follow in the footsteps of his predecessor and continue to push Illinois forward.

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