Equal Rights
No one should face discrimination because of who they are, what they believe, the color of their skin or who they love. Equality, dignity and safety must be the foundation of how our government serves its people.
As a hijab-wearing Muslim woman, Nabeela knows firsthand what it means to be judged based on appearance or faith. She has dedicated her life to pushing back against hate and lifting up those who have been marginalized.
She works closely with young Muslim girls to build confidence, leadership and resilience, encouraging them to proudly own their identities and speak out against injustice. She has also collaborated with faith-based organizations across traditions to promote interfaith understanding, empathy and solidarity.
Nabeela has worked to:
Ensure every person–regardless of gender, race, religion, ability or identity–has access to opportunity, safety and respect
Advocate for religious freedom and interfaith understanding to build stronger, more compassionate communities
Provide women and girls with full autonomy, equal opportunity and safe access to healthcare, education and leadership
Protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination and hate
Protect people with disabilities by making sure they have full access to public services, spaces and systems
Provide affordable care, economic stability and systems that support Illinois families
Create education curriculum that reflects the true, full history of all people
Legislative wins:
Championed statewide education standards that teach diverse histories, helping all students see themselves in the curriculum
Expanded access to preventative women’s healthcare, including mammograms, prenatal care and cancer screenings
Advocated for affordable, accessible childcare, especially in the wake of COVID-19’s disproportionate impact on working mothers and caregivers
Strengthened protections against hate, discrimination and violence targeting LGBTQ+ individuals and communities throughout Illinois
Representative Syed will always fight for an Illinois where inclusion isn’t an optional courtesy–it’s expected. Her lived experience, advocacy and legislative work are rooted in the belief that a stronger Illinois is one where everyone feels a sense of belonging.