Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR) has worked for 37 years to advance the rights of immigrants and refugees, ensuring their full and equal participation in our diverse society’s civic, cultural, social, and political life. Through their coalition and member-based model, they diligently provide resources, safety, and dignity to immigrants and asylum seekers across Chicago and Illinois, including those who have recently arrived from the southern border. As a vital part of our community, ICIRR plays a crucial role in supporting organizations and offering direct support to the ecosystem of immigration justice.

Evette Cardona has bridged the realms of social impact and advocacy as a professional in philanthropy and education while also serving as an activist and organizer for LGBTQIA+ rights, focusing on uplifting women and gender-expansive communities. Her activism began in 1993 when she co-founded Women of All Cultures Together (WACT), aimed at bridging racial and cultural divides among women. In 1995, she helped establish Amigas Latinas for Latina lesbian, bisexual, and questioning women. Cardona currently serves as the Vice President of Programs at the Polk Bros. Foundation and is a graduate of the University of Chicago’s Crown Family School of Social Work.