Economic Opportunity and Protecting Reproductive Healthcare, LGBTQ+, and Immigrant/Refugee Rights Among Top Priorities for New Rep. Hoan Huynh

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – State Rep. Hoan Huynh, D-Chicago, began his first term in the Illinois House of Representatives Wednesday with a dedication to fight for economic opportunity, environmental justice, and the needs of those most left behind, particularly our seniors and low-income communities of color, in addition to a commitment to protect reproductive healthcare, LGBTQ+, and immigrant/refugee rights.

“Today, I am proud to stand in the Illinois House Chambers as a Vietnam War refugee, and the son of refugees who never gave up hope, kept the faith, and sacrificed everything just so we can live in a country that valued democracy, freedom, and human rights. My community in America raised and nurtured me, and my parents taught me the value of hard work, community service, and looking after your neighbors. In Springfield, I take every lesson that my parents instilled in me and will legislate with an unwavering commitment to fight for those who have been left behind in our state.”

Taking the oath of office for the first time, Huynh become the first Vietnamese American and refugee ever elected in Illinois’ state history, the first Asian American to represent Chicago Northside and lakefront in the General Assembly, and the first person of color to represent the 13^th State House District. Huynh brings a variety of professional experiences to office including a background in social impact investments, entrepreneurship and technology innovation, and public policy research. Huynh’s priorities also include public safety and gun violence prevention, affordable housing and decreasing homelessness, transit infrastructure, and expanding mental healthcare access. Huynh will also fight for policy that engages the interests of small businesses and respects the working class, and advocate for those from immigrant and refugee backgrounds. Huynh will always lend his voice to support a woman’s right to choose and access reproductive healthcare.

“I am excited to be another forward-thinking voice in Springfield, and advocate for our Chicago northside communities”, said Huynh. “I will work tirelessly everyday with legislators and experts from different backgrounds to address the complex challenges facing Illinoisans everywhere.”

Huynh represents the 13^th House District, which is entirely made up of Chicago’s northside and lakefront communities, including neighborhoods of Uptown, Andersonville, Wrigleyville, Ravenswood, Lincoln Square, Lake View, Bowmanville, Buena Park, Sheridan Park, Southport, Arcadia Terrace, and Budlong Woods.