Tanya Cabrera, a prominent figure in Chicago, has been making waves as the chairperson of the Illinois DREAM Fund (ILDF). Raised in Chicago, Cabrera found her passion for organizing at a young age, which eventually led her to work as a counselor at Chicago Public Schools (CPS). It was during this time that she met Rigoberto “Rigo” Padilla-Pérez, a fellow activist and co-founder of the Immigrant Youth Justice League (IYJL). Together, they advocated for undocumented immigrant students until Padilla-Pérez tragically passed away in 2023.
Cabrera has since taken the ILDF to new heights, becoming a national leader in supporting undocumented immigrant students. The fund is set to award over $2.7 million in scholarships to applicants across the state by the end of 2024. Cabrera’s dedication to advocating for immigrant rights and education is evident in her work with ILDF.
Growing up in Chicago, Cabrera was influenced by her father’s activism in Pilsen and Little Village, working with farmworkers and community organizations. Her early exposure to organizing and social justice issues shaped her future path in advocating for marginalized communities. Cabrera’s commitment to empowering Latino students in neighborhoods like Pilsen, Little Village, and Back of the Yards has been unwavering throughout her career.
One of Cabrera’s significant accomplishments was her role in passing the RISE Act, which focused on retaining Illinois students in education. This legislation required numerous trips to Springfield and conversations with legislators to ensure its success. By diversifying voices and sharing student testimonies, Cabrera was able to highlight the importance of supporting all marginalized communities, not just Latinos.
Additionally, Cabrera’s efforts to secure funding for the ILDF through the Illinois Lottery bill demonstrate her long-term vision for the fund’s sustainability. Her strategic approach to financial stability and revenue generation has paved the way for increased support for undocumented students in Illinois.
In the face of challenges, such as the changing political climate and mental health concerns among immigrant populations, Cabrera remains steadfast in her advocacy work. She recognizes the importance of providing holistic support to students, including access to mental health resources and basic necessities like food. Cabrera’s dedication to addressing the systemic barriers faced by undocumented students is evident in her ongoing efforts to create a more inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Despite personal challenges and the loss of her close collaborator Rigo, Cabrera continues to fight for immigrant rights and educational equity. Her resilience and passion for social justice serve as an inspiration to many, highlighting the impact of dedicated individuals in creating positive change in their communities. Tanya Cabrera truly embodies the spirit of a people’s advocate in Chicago, working tirelessly to uplift and empower those who need it most.
