Catalina Cruz

Catalina Cruz is a Colombian-American attorney and politician currently serving as a member of the New York State Assembly, representing the 39th district, which includes the neighborhoods of Corona, Elmhurst, and Jackson Heights in Queens. A member of the Democratic Party, Cruz is notable for being the first former undocumented immigrant who identifies as a DREAMer to be elected to the New York State legislature. Her background as a former undocumented immigrant has shaped her advocacy for immigration rights and labor issues throughout her career.

Early life and career

Catalina Cruz was born in Medellín, Colombia, around 1982 or 1983. At the age of nine, she and her mother moved to the United States on a six-month tourist visa. After the expiration of their visa, they remained in the country without legal status for over a decade. Cruz spent her formative years in Brooklyn and Queens, where she grew up alongside five siblings, three of whom are U.S. citizens. Her experiences as an undocumented immigrant have significantly influenced her political and professional trajectory.

Cruz graduated from John Bowne High School in Flushing, Queens, in 2001. She pursued higher education at the John Jay College of Criminal Justice, earning a bachelor's degree with honors in forensic psychology in 2005. Following her undergraduate studies, she attended the City University of New York School of Law, where she obtained her Juris Doctor (J.D.) degree in 2009. Her educational background laid the foundation for her future career in law and public service.

After completing her law degree, Cruz began her career as a Volunteer Assistant Attorney General under then-New York State Attorney General Andrew Cuomo. In this role, she focused on cases involving fraud related to immigration services and contributed to various prosecution efforts. From 2009 to 2012, she served as counsel at the Goddard Riverside SRO Law Project, a legal service organization based in Manhattan that provides assistance to low-income residents.

Cruz's career continued to evolve as she took on roles within the New York State Department of Labor from 2012 to 2014, where she worked as counsel to the Division of Immigrant Policies and Affairs. In 2014, she transitioned to the New York City Council, serving as counsel to the Immigration Committee. During her tenure, she worked on initiatives addressing domestic worker trafficking, the Unaccompanied Minors Initiative, and the IDNYC program, which aimed to provide identification to residents regardless of immigration status.

From 2015 to 2017, Cruz held the position of Director of the Office of the New York State Governor, Andrew Cuomo, where she served as Special Assistant for Labor & Workforce. In this capacity, she led the Joint Task Force on Worker Exploitation and Employee Misclassification, also known as the Exploited Workers Task Force. Her work in this role further solidified her commitment to labor rights and immigrant advocacy.

In 2017, Cruz became Chief of Staff for New York City Council Member Julissa Ferreras-Copeland, where she continued to influence policy and advocate for her constituents until Ferreras-Copeland decided not to seek re-election.

Legislative service

Cruz announced her candidacy for the New York State Assembly in February 2018, seeking to fill the vacancy left by Francisco Moya in the 39th district. Initially, the Democratic leadership selected another candidate, Ari Espinal, for the special election in April 2018. However, Cruz persevered and successfully won the Democratic primary on September 13, 2018, defeating Espinal. She subsequently secured the Assembly seat in the general election held on November 6, 2018. Cruz's campaign was bolstered by training from New American Leaders, which helped her raise nearly $200,000 for her primary race.

Since taking office, Cruz has been an active member of the New York State Assembly, where she has continued to advocate for issues that resonate with her constituents. Her legislative work reflects her commitment to addressing the needs of immigrant communities, labor rights, and social justice. As a member of the Assembly, she participates in various committees and collaborates with fellow legislators to advance policies that align with her values and the interests of her district.

Policy focus and district

Cruz represents the 39th district of New York, which encompasses diverse neighborhoods such as Corona, Elmhurst, and Jackson Heights. This area is known for its rich cultural diversity, with a significant population of immigrants from various backgrounds. Cruz's own experiences as a former undocumented immigrant and her advocacy for immigration rights have positioned her as a prominent voice for her constituents.

Throughout her legislative career, Cruz has focused on several key policy areas, including immigration reform, labor rights, and social equity. She has been a vocal advocate for the rights of undocumented immigrants and has worked to promote policies that support their integration into society. Her background in law and her previous roles in public service have equipped her with the knowledge and skills necessary to navigate complex legal and policy issues.

Cruz's commitment to labor rights is also a central aspect of her legislative agenda. She has worked on initiatives aimed at improving working conditions, protecting workers from exploitation, and ensuring fair treatment for all employees, particularly those in vulnerable positions. Her advocacy extends to issues affecting domestic workers and other marginalized groups within the labor force.

In addition to her focus on immigration and labor, Cruz is dedicated to addressing broader social issues that impact her district. She aims to promote access to education, healthcare, and affordable housing, recognizing that these factors are essential for the well-being of her constituents. By prioritizing these areas, Cruz seeks to create a more equitable and inclusive environment for all residents of the 39th district.

Cruz's unique background and experiences have shaped her approach to public service, making her a significant figure in New York's political landscape. As she continues her legislative work, she remains committed to advocating for the rights and needs of her constituents while contributing to the ongoing dialogue surrounding immigration and labor issues in the state.