Besides his role on the city council, Danny Solis is an activist working with many non-profits and his own organization helping Latino youth.
Background: Solis, a former teacher, is founder and executive director of the Latino Youth Alternative High School. Solis' work in education led him to other grassroots organizational work. He was the first Latino to head the Pilsen Neighbors Community Council and sat on the board of directors for the Eighteen Street Development Corporation. He also worked with non-profits to help undocumented immigrants seek amnesty as U.S. residents.
The Ward: The 25th Ward includes Pilsen, East Pilsen, Heart of Chicago, Little Italy, Chinatown and University Village. The ward is highly diverse with a strong Mexican American heritage in Pilsen, and the area thrives on arts and culture. It is home to the Mexican Fine Arts Museum and a string of Italian restaurants in Little Italy.
The Office: Solis is a Daley ally, elected to the position in 1996. Solis hangs his hat on job creation and making his ward attractive and affordable for industrial relocation. During his time as alderman, he helped expand the Fine Arts Museum and senior housing projects. He also is the current chairman of the zoning committee.
Committees:
Aviation
Budget and Government Operations
Committees, Rules and Ethics
Education and Child Development
Finance
Human Relations
Public Safety
Workforce Development and Audit
Zoning, Landmarks and Building Standards (Chair)
