Bio and Deb on the Issues…

My history

About Me

Born and raised in Chicago’s north side. My mother Linda is from Texas, my Father is from Puerto Rico. Both met here in Chicago and stayed to raise their 7 children. I went to both Private and Public schools, graduating from James G. Blaine Elementary school located on Southport in 1974 and Lake View High School in 1978. My interest in serving others began at a very young age. I recall my first campaign effort elected to the Student Council at Blaine where I worked on student and school projects. In high school I continued my involvement in Student Government serving on the Student Council, joining numerous student organizations and winning elections as Class Officer. I played on the Tennis team, ran on the Track team, was captain of the Basketball team and swam on the first Lake View HS  girls swim team.

In 1977, as a Senior student leader and feeling a sense of unfair injustice to our quiet north side school, I led a boycott for 4 days which brought awareness to the Lake View residents and the need to be recognized as plans were underway for desegregating the Chicago Public Schools. We succeeded in obtaining a seat at the table of future decisions that would impact LVHS and our community.

1977 Lake View High School student protest Chicago, Illinois

In 1981, I assisted 5th District City workers in the Lake View area to stand up to an unfair Alderman in the Lake View neighborhood. I spoke for the Aging constituents as well as those city workers who were threatened with job loss. We succeeded in addressing the unethical tactics and opening the Aldermanic seat for a newcomer. At age 21, I was offered the support of the community to run for the Aldermanic position but declined to continue my studies.

In 1987, while serving as a Bi-lingual Director at a Proprietary Business school, I noticed discrepancies in paper work and federal loan papers damaging the credit ratings of hundreds of unsuspecting students. I turned over the evidence necessary for the States Attorney’s office and helped the Federal Office in their investigation into this company’s illegal practices. In addition, I worked with then Senator Miguel Del Valle to pass legislation to regulate these schools by speaking out at the Senate Committee hearings.

In addition, when the warmth of O’Hare  Airport was closed to the Homeless, I locked arms with fellow activists because I knew it was the humanitarian thing to do.

In 1988, I was hired by the late Harold Washington Administration. I served under both former Eugene Sawyer’s Administration and our now Mayor Daley’s Administration in negotiating contracts with Agencies wishing to operate serving Chicago citizens. I traveled often to Springfield, Illinois and met with D.E.C.A to ensure that Chicago was in compliance with Federal Regulations in order to secure the $43 million dollars needed to run the Chicago year round programs. I streamlined the R S P from 1,200 pages to less than 330 pages to better serve those seeking City Grants. I over saw the Coordination Agreement Meetings between all State Department Directors and the City to be sure we were not duplicating City and State services. In this capacity I was able to bring people of differing views to the table and compromise for the betterment of the people of Chicago.

In 1991, I once again challenged the Public schools while I had taken a teaching assignment with Bi-lingual students on submitting children into Bi-lingual programs who spoke only English but carried Spanish surnames just to increase their Federal monies. As the Hispanic population in Illinois continues to grow, I will work to see that abuses in the bi-lingual program cease and children who are in need of services receive them.

In 1993, after graduating with a M.A.ED from Dominican University, I left Chicago to volunteer along the Mexican American border working with migrant farm workers and their families. I listened to the stories of the deprivation, hunger, and deplorable living conditions in Mexico that force many of Mexico’s poor to flee into the hands of America. We must handle the issue of Immigration in Illinois with dignity and hope that our decisions will become a template for other states in turning this situation into one that strengthens America ; not weaken her.

Response to a comment: Mexicans obsessed with large families

Deb Leticia Gordils Obsession.. with the preservation of life…. OH NO my friend…hope that in your hour of need as many compassionate souls rally around you..That hour of need escapes no one… Small families by Americans have been a choice & more about self enjoyment than economics..Keep in mind you have been blessed to be born on this side of the American continent.. Read up on the early pioneers few immigrants took a first class voyage to America…..As for THE SMART PEOPLE..who among is so smart as to throw the first stone in a glass house?..Yes over population is a challenge better handled with dignity for all..the preservation of human rights has always been upheld by the majority of good willed Americans and I believe will continue to prevail…

1995, shortly after returning from volunteering along the Mexican American border, I took a short interim assignment as the Principal and was happy to support in the March Against Violence.

In 1997, at age 37 my first daughter was born missing parts of her heart and parts which were there were not perfect. I was told since I was Catholic to call in a priest because they did not expect her to live the 15 minute flight to an awaiting cardiac team. The priest came, I was wheeled to her side and wept. 11 years later she is about to have her 12th birthday to the surprise of many of her doctors. Born healthy or disabled there are no guarantees to a long life. We value the time we have.  This uncertain, and at times frightening experience has taught me much, first and foremost GOD is the author of Life, nothing in this life is impossible, that if you believe and work hard good things happen and that fear is conquered by a belief that God dictates. My daughters 5 operations and two open heart surgeries with more still possible has taught me to value my children, to fear nothing but Gods timing and choices. It is for my children that I run this campaign in order to create initiatives that will enhance their lives and the lives of many others.

In 2002, the unexpected blessing of my non-biological daughter arrived, Petra, named after my grandmother she became the treasure of our home. It was in this same year that I was campaigning to run for office for the very first time. I made the decision to seek public office after tiring of hearing myself complain about the way things were and tons of ideas about the ways things could be. I ran for Alderman against Richard Mell in the 33rd Ward. I lost the race but gained respect for taking on the hard challenge and not allowing political tricks to thwart my efforts.

Gordils versus Mell for Aldermanic seat in 33rd Ward

Today, I come before you, believing all my experiences in life have placed me here to best serve all the people of Illinois. I have shared my record which demonstrates concern and commitment and now ask your permission  to hold office in Illinois and give voice to an otherwise voiceless position in the great State of Illinois!

Birthday:
May 20, 1960
Hometown:
Lake View, North Chicago, IL
Political Views:
Compassionate Conservative
Religious Views:
Roman Catholic