the 5th district state senator
Lakesia collins
As a former nursing home worker, she witnessed the impact of understaffing and heavy workloads, fueling her passion to become a leader in SEIU Healthcare Illinois and help pass groundbreaking nursing home reform legislation. A single mother of three boys, she understands the importance of safety and stability for children.
Senator Collins’ journey has also included personal struggles. As a teen, she experienced homelessness and was forced to couch surf between family and friends. Understanding the hardships that come along with that instability has been a driving force behind Senator Collins’ fierce advocacy for Illinois’ youth in care. She is a former State Representative, appointed to the State Senate in 2023, and previously served as the Chair of the Illinois House Black Caucus.
Lakesia's Work
Her legislative priorities reflect her background and include advocating for seniors, working families, youth in care, education, public safety, affordable housing, and mental health. She is focused on creating opportunities and development for families in her district without displacement.
