CHICAGO — In the lead-up to the March primary election, Anabel Mendoza — a lifelong Chicagoan, immigrant rights organizer, and the youngest candidate running for Illinois’ 7th Congressional District — is continuing to build momentum on the ground by bringing voters together through weekly community meet-and-greet events across the district.

Over the past week, Anabel hosted two successful meet-and-greets in Englewood and Oak Park, creating space for residents to connect directly with the campaign, ask questions, and share their priorities for their neighborhoods' futures. The gatherings drew strong participation from community members eager to discuss affordability, ICE out of neighborhoods, housing stability, and the need for bold, courageous leadership in Congress that meets the urgency of the current moment. 

These weekly meet-and-greets have helped power a competitive people-powered field program that includes daily door-knocking across the district, phone banking, participation in candidate forums, a weekly church tour every Sunday, and ongoing mutual aid events that provide

direct support to families while strengthening community ties.

“These meet-and-greets are about showing up, listening, and building real relationships with the people who make up our district,” said Anabel Mendoza. “Too often, communities are talked at instead of listened to. My campaign is focused on creating spaces where voters feel seen, heard, and part of the movement to  shape the future we’re fighting for together.”

Attendees responded with enthusiasm and thoughtful dialogue, particularly around Anabel’s commitment to uniting working-class communities and fighting for investments in affordable housing, strong public schools, and good-paying jobs that help sustain families. The events reflect a broader campaign strategy centered on accessibility, grassroots engagement, and meeting voters where they are.

With more meet-and-greets and community events planned in the coming weeks, Anabel’s campaign will continue to expand its outreach across Chicago’s South and West Sides and throughout the 7th District.