Meet Anabel

Anabel is the first woman and Latina to hold the position of 12th Ward Alderwoman.

Anabel was born in Chicago to working class immigrant parents. Her father drove a taxicab and owned a small auto repair business in the Belmont-Cragin neighborhood, and her mother cleaned offices and worked at a factory. Both of Anabel’s parents immigrated from Mexico and often worked two jobs to provide for Anabel and her sister. As a child, Anabel remembers accompanying her dad on late night rides in his taxi when they couldn’t afford a babysitter. 

In November 2022, former 12th Ward Ald. George Cardenas resigned. Per state law, an aldermanic vacancy must be filled within 60 days. After applying for the job and interviewing with the appointment committee and Mayor, Anabel was appointed 12th Ward Alderwoman on December 14, 2022.

Anabel is a graduate of Chicago Public Schools and knows firsthand the issues faced by underfunded schools. She is the first person in her family to go to college and received her bachelor’s from DePaul University. Anabel is one of the millions of Americans with student loan debt. 

As a child, Anabel translated legal and city documents for her parents and family members. As an attorney, Anabel works hard to incorporate a pro bono portion into her law practice for those who cannot afford legal services. She received her law degree from Loyola University Chicago School of Law.

Anabel has served on the executive board of multiple non-profits including Latinos Progresando, McKinley Park Development Council, and the El Valor Associate Board. She is currently the Treasurer of Women in Planning + Development.

Public service is at the core of Anabel’s experience.

• Anabel interned for the European Union and IL State Representative John Fritchey in college.
• Anabel was a staffer to Congressman Mike Quigley (IL-05), former Ald. George Cardenas, and the Chicago Department of Public Health.
• In law school, Anabel was a legal extern for the Illinois Supreme Court and the Chicago Board of Elections.

Anabel is the proud owner of a workers cottage in McKinley Park.