Catalina Cruz is a Colombian-American attorney and Democratic politician serving as a member of the New York State Assembly for District 39 since 2019. This district, one of the most diverse in the nation, includes the neighborhoods of Corona, Elmhurst, and Jackson Heights in Queens, as well as parts of Middle Village and Rego Park. A former undocumented immigrant minor , she is a prominent advocate for immigration rights, tenant protections, workers’ rights, and immigration reform. Notable achievements include passing more than 20 new laws to address food insecurity, high healthcare costs, and protections for aging New Yorkers; securing billions in state budget funding for schools, hospitals, and libraries in her district; and contributing to progressive reforms in criminal justice and tenant protections. Prior roles include Director of Governor Andrew Cuomo’s 2016 Exploited Workers Task Force, counsel to the New York City Council’s Immigration Committee , and counsel to the Division of Immigrant Policies and Affairs at the New York State Department of Labor . She resides in Jackson Heights, Queens.

Education and Political Experience

• Education: Bachelor’s degree from John Jay College of Criminal Justice; Juris Doctor from the City University of New York School of Law. Admitted to practice law in New York State.
• Political Experience: Elected in 2018 after winning the Democratic primary for the seat vacated by Francisco Moya, defeating opponent Arnel Bella Espinal. Served as Chief of Staff to former Council Member Julissa Ferreras-Copeland. Practiced housing law, representing tenants in housing court, drafting legislation, and implementing initiatives like the Unaccompanied Minors Initiative, IDNYC program, and Key to the City program.