Javier Loera Cervantes is a lifelong Southside Chicago resident. He has deep roots in Chicago’s Pilsen neighborhood, where he developed his intrinsic characteristics of hard work and sacrifice from watching his single immigrant mother Victoria work to ensure their family would have a better future. From an early age, he learned the meaning of humility, accountability and integrity, and became passionate about advocating for others, especially those who cannot advocate for themselves.

Javier’s dedication to helping working families naturally led him to a career at Service Employees International (SEIU Health Care Illinois and Indiana). After studying visual communications from the International Academy of Design and Technology, and labor studies at the University of Illinois Chicago School of Labor, he worked as a union representative for 12 years before becoming a nursing home division coordinator. He also successfully led a handful of contract campaigns that resulted in substantial wage increases, affordable health insurance, and retirement benefits.

After his work with SEIU, he began making a difference for his community through work with the Illinois State Senate. He was first appointed as State Senator of the 1^st District in the fall of 2022, and was re-elected to the post in 2024. Since becoming a senator, Javier has committed to championing legislation addressing access to health care, laborers, immigrant workers, criminal law, and environmental issues.

His passion for progressive change is also motivated by his daughter Madison, who is a visual artist and community advocate. Her advocacy inspires him to pass initiatives that would ensure a better future for the next generation.

Currently, he serves as the Chairman of the Criminal Law committee, and as a member of the Senate Energy & Public Utilities, Labor, Licensed Activities, Pensions, and Appropriations – Education Committees. In his spare time, you can find him and his daughter taking photos around the city. To follow along with the legislation he is working on this year, click here.