Lakesia Collins

Lakesia Collins is a Democratic politician currently serving as a member of the Illinois State Senate for the 5th district, which encompasses parts of the West Side of Chicago. Prior to her tenure in the Senate, she served in the Illinois House of Representatives for the 9th district from 2020 to 2023. Collins has a background as a union organizer and has been actively involved in advocating for various legislative initiatives, particularly those related to labor rights and social equity.

Early life and career

Lakesia Collins was raised in Illinois, where she attended Proviso East High School located in Maywood. After completing her secondary education, she pursued a career in healthcare by obtaining a Certified Nursing Assistant certificate from the Samland Institute in Chicago. This qualification enabled her to work as a nurse in nursing homes, where she gained firsthand experience in the challenges faced by healthcare workers and patients alike.

Her career took a significant turn when she became involved with SEIU Healthcare Illinois, a prominent labor union representing healthcare workers. As a union organizer, Collins focused on advocating for the rights and welfare of workers in the healthcare sector. Her efforts included campaigning for nursing home reforms, supporting the proposed Illinois Fair Tax, and advocating for an increase in the minimum wage. Through her work, she sought to improve working conditions and promote fair compensation for healthcare professionals, reflecting her commitment to labor rights and social justice.

Legislative service

Collins entered the political arena in 2019 when she launched her campaign for the Illinois House of Representatives, specifically targeting the 9th district in the 2020 election. This district had been represented by incumbent State Representative Art Turner, who chose not to seek re-election after holding the position since 2011. The seat had a historical significance, as Turner's father, Arthur Turner, had previously held it for over three decades.

In the Democratic primary election, Collins faced a competitive field that included six other candidates, among them Aaron Turner, the brother of the outgoing representative. Her campaign garnered substantial support from various labor unions, including SEIU Healthcare Illinois and the Chicago Teachers Union, as well as endorsements from progressive organizations such as United Working Families. Additionally, she received backing from local elected officials and media outlets, which bolstered her visibility and credibility as a candidate.

On March 17, 2020, Collins emerged victorious in the primary election, securing approximately 45.9% of the vote. Following the resignation of Art Turner, she was appointed to fulfill the remainder of his term on July 24, 2020. Subsequently, she ran unopposed in the general election held on November 3, 2020, successfully winning a full term that commenced in January 2021. Notably, Collins made history as the first woman to represent the 9th district in the Illinois House.

During her time in the House, Collins was an active member of several committees, including the Appropriations - Public Safety Committee, the Child Care Accessibility & Early Childhood Education Committee, the Housing Committee, the Human Services Committee, the Labor & Commerce Committee, and various subcommittees focused on public benefits and workforce development. Her committee assignments allowed her to engage with a wide range of legislative issues, further enhancing her influence and involvement in state governance.

In August 2023, Collins was appointed to the Illinois State Senate to represent the 5th district, succeeding Patricia Van Pelt, who retired from her position. This transition marked a new chapter in her political career, allowing her to continue her advocacy and legislative work at a higher level of government.

Policy focus and district

As a member of the Illinois State Senate, Collins represents the 5th district, which is located on the West Side of Chicago. This area is characterized by its diverse population and a variety of socioeconomic challenges. Collins's policy focus reflects her commitment to addressing the needs of her constituents, particularly in areas such as healthcare, education, labor rights, and social equity.

Collins's background as a union organizer informs her legislative priorities, as she continues to advocate for policies that support workers and promote fair labor practices. Her experience in healthcare also drives her interest in initiatives aimed at improving access to quality healthcare services for all residents, particularly those in underserved communities.

In addition to labor and healthcare issues, Collins is likely to engage with matters related to housing, education, and public safety, given the pressing concerns within her district. Her involvement in various committees during her time in the Illinois House has equipped her with the knowledge and experience necessary to address these complex issues effectively.

Collins's role as a legislator is further complemented by her personal experiences as a single mother of three children, which provides her with a unique perspective on the challenges faced by families in her district. This aspect of her life may influence her approach to policy-making, as she seeks to create a more equitable and supportive environment for all constituents.

Through her ongoing service in the Illinois State Senate, Lakesia Collins continues to be an active participant in shaping legislation that impacts the lives of her constituents, drawing on her background in healthcare and labor advocacy to inform her work. Her journey from union organizer to state legislator exemplifies her dedication to public service and her commitment to addressing the needs of the communities she represents.