SR0277 103RD GENERAL ASSEMBLY

SR0277 LRB103 32356 LAW 61749 r

SENATE RESOLUTION

WHEREAS, The members of the Illinois Senate are saddened to learn of the death of Ivan Claudio Gonzalez of Chicago, who passed away on June 14, 2022, and wish to remember him on the anniversary of his birth, May 10; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez was born to Mario Gonzalez and Rosa Gonzalez on May 10, 1982; he was the proud child of immigrants who instilled in him a sense of responsibility to help uplift his community; and

WHEREAS, At the age of 22, Ivan Gonzalez began to organize and advocate for progressive change in the Latino community and all communities in Illinois; as a champion for working-class people, he helped pass legislation in the General Assembly to better the lives of immigrants through public schools, labor, and affordable housing; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez served as chief of staff to State Senator Omar Aquino since 2016; during his tenure, he managed day-to-day operations of the senate district office, legislative agenda, and community relations and became an influential advocate for the Latino community; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez was one of the most iconic and beloved policy and political consultants in the State of Illinois, paving the way for many in politics today, including people in City Hall, Cook County, and recently in Congress with the historic election of Delia Ramirez to the U.S. House of Representatives; he served as a senior advisor to then State Representative Ramirez until his passing, which occurred two weeks before her and Senator Aquino's election to the State Central Committee; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez was known for his kindness, generosity, and infectious laugh, having a positive impact on the lives of many who crossed his path; through his huge, joyous smile, he brought together both friends and rivals to remind us that we can always forgive and that there is always an opportunity to forget about the past and start over; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez was a true giant in the ever-growing and evolving progressive movement, and his influence on politics in the State of Illinois will not be forgotten; and

WHEREAS, Ivan Gonzalez is survived by his parents; his sister, Vanessa; his brother-in-law, John Velez; and his nieces, Liliana and Daniela Velez; therefore, be it

RESOLVED, BY THE SENATE OF THE ONE HUNDRED THIRD GENERAL ASSEMBLY OF THE STATE OF ILLINOIS, that we mourn the passing of Ivan Claudio Gonzalez and extend our sincere condolences to his family, friends, and all who knew and loved him; and be it further

RESOLVED, That a suitable copy of this resolution be presented to the family of Ivan Gonzalez as an expression of our deepest sympathy.