Political Quotes

“I rise today to honor Mario Vega for his work to create spaces that uplift our young people and build safe and thriving communities. Mario has transformed his own personal experiences, growing up in Chicago, to realize safety in our communities by investing in our city's young people. Through the establishment of the Chicago Youth Boxing Club, and as the director of mentoring at New Life Centers, Mario understands that building community and building relationships are the recipe for safer neighborhoods. Through his mentorship of young people, including those in my own community of Humboldt Park, he sees, values, and affirms young people and supports their journey to find their confidence and purpose. Mario's work has been recognized in 'Beacons of Hope: Stories of Strength from Chicago,' but the true measure of his impact is seen in the violence epidemic he interrupts and the young people who, as a result, chart a new path for themselves full of possibilities. On behalf of Illinois' Third Congressional District, it is my honor to commend Mario Vega for reminding us that when we invest in our youth, we are actually investing in peace. I congratulate Mario.”