Juana Cordova

Juana Cordova is a first-generation Latina, born in Waukegan, Illinois and raised in the Round Lake community. Her parents, originally from Michoacán, Mexico, brought with them their indigenous cultural heritage that Juana embraces wholeheartedly. Growing up, Juana found empowerment and a deep connection to her roots through traditional Purepecha dances of Michoacán, a tradition her family keeps alive today.

From a young age, Juana was aware of the challenges her family faced. Her grandfather and uncle were both Braceros, part of the Bracero program. They sought a better life but encountered numerous injustices, such as racial discrimination, wage theft, and inhumane working and living conditions. These experiences were woven into Juana’s upbringing, instilling in her a profound sense of justice and a desire to advocate for her community.

Education became a beacon of hope for Juana. She pursued a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science with a concentration in Law & Courts, along with a minor in Sociology, at the University of Illinois at Chicago (UIC). Her academic journey was not just about personal achievement; it was about gaining the tools to fight for her community.

At UIC, Juana’s leadership and advocacy skills flourished. As a student representative, she organized town hall meetings to address pressing issues, drafted legislation to enhance student life, and planned events to enrich the campus experience. Her dedication to representing approximately 400 students in administrative meetings showcased her commitment to being a voice for others.

In February 2023, Juana led a group of students from the UI sister campuses in a lobbying effort in Springfield, Illinois. She collaborated with leaders to advocate for increased university funding and crucial initiatives like MAP grants and mental health resources. Juana’s efforts amplified the collective voice of the university community, striving to secure essential resources for students.

Her advocacy extended to the Open Education Resource Program at UIC, where she worked from January to May 2023. She played a pivotal role in trying to restore the program, this program would make textbooks more affordable and accessible for students. Juana also served as a Social Science Department Ambassador, addressing student challenges and fostering a supportive academic environment.

Juana’s connection to her community runs deep. She grew up in a low-income household, witnessing firsthand the struggles her parents faced, including poverty and limited education. Her mother, working in the restaurant industry, dealt with unstable work schedules and other injustices. These experiences shaped Juana’s perspective and fueled her determination to advocate for workers’ rights and social justice.

Today, Juana continues her fight for justice with unwavering passion. She leverages her background and experiences to help her community, ensuring that those who may not know their rights in the workplace are informed and supported. She is based in the Round Lake community in Lake County and hopes to continue her advocacy efforts at FLAP, informing low-wage workers about their rights and the resources available to them.