I was thirteen years old when I first understood that change doesn’t come from waiting—it comes from showing up. Growing up in Puerto Rico, where corrupt government often failed to deliver, I learned that real power lies in the hands of people: neighbors sharing meals, workers standing shoulder-to-shoulder, communities turning grief into action. 

Hi! I’m Miguel Alvelo-Rivera.

I am an Albany Park cat dad (Mingo and Luisa), husband to lovely Vero, an avid biker, environmentalist, (pretty good) classical guitarist, and your people-powered candidate running to represent our 40th Illinois House District.

Over the past decade in Chicago, I’ve fought for policies to raise wages, expand healthcare, protect immigrants, and invest in mental health, housing, and public education. I try to live up to my values, through action and solidarity.

Fighting for Immigrant and Worker Rights

When Trump’s ICE agents invaded Chicago, I helped to create a volunteer ICE watch to protect our neighborhood together, and launched an “Adopt-a-Corner” program to help keep day laborers safe. For five years as Latino Union’s Executive Director, I’ve stood with Albany Park’s day laborers and domestic workers, battling wage theft and holding greedy corporations accountable.  

Empowering Through Education

I was elected twice to Roosevelt High School’s Local School Council, where I worked with parents, teachers, and school leaders to pass Roosevelt’s budget, support immigrant students, and advocate for our school.

Through teaching adult English language learners and working hands-on in Chicago after-school programs, I’ve had the privilege of watching education transform lives. I felt proud to play a part as students gained confidence, earned citizenship, and youth grew into leaders who uplift their communities. 

Solidarity in Crisis

When COVID-19 hit and support systems failed, I worked with neighbors to transform an unused campaign office into a neighborhood food pantry. Running on community food donations and neighbors pitching in, we fed and provided diapers to more than 200 people every week. Together we proved that in times of crisis, community is the foundation of resilience.

I’m running for office because I believe in a government that works with the people, not above them. From the streets of the 40th District to the state legislature in Springfield, we are going to keep each other safe against fascism, out-organize it, and build a future that delivers justice and dignity.