Kevin Olickal

Kevin Olickal was born in Evanston, Illinois, and lives in Skokie, Illinois. Olickal earned a bachelor's degree from Ohio State University in 2010. His career experience includes working as the executive director of the Indo-American Democratic Organization, a Cook County recovery specialist with the National Partnership for New Americans, the chief of staff for Illinois State Representative Karina Villa, and an organizer.[1][2]

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Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

My family immigrated to the Chicago area over 30 years ago and we have lived here ever since. I grew up in Skokie and am proud to still call it home. I have spent my entire professional career in the organizing, non-profit, political, and government sphere and am looking forward to continuing that work in my district. Most recently, I served as a Cook County Recovery Specialist with the National Partnership for New Americans. I helped small businesses access loans and grants during the COVID-19 pandemic. I also helped provide resources, host webinars, and put together policy proposals for long-term COVID-19 recovery. I worked as the Executive Director of the Indo-American Democratic Organization. Prior to that I worked as Chief of Staff State Representative Deb Conroy, as a Field Coordinator for State Representative Michelle Mussman, and Field Director for State Senator Karina Villa. I graduated from Ohio State University and am currently a part time law student at Loyola University Chicago

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

I want to provide the 16th District with the kind of ethical, effective, and proactive representation it deserves.I am a progressive Democrat committed to fighting for middle-class and working families,I have been endorsed by our nations leading gun violence prevention groups because they know I am committed to keeping our community safe.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Gun violence Prevention and retaining full reproductive healthcare are the policy areas that feel most imminent to me, at the moment. I will also prioritize public education funding and equitable economic policy.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

In my life, I have been lucky enough to have a plethora of ethical leaders in my life who have set amazing examples of the type of person I can become. However, If I had to choose one person whose example I most emulate every day, that person would be my father. My father immigrated to the Chicago area over 30 years ago looking for a better future. He has worked tirelessly to ensure that not only my mother, my brother, and I could have the futures we've dreamed of, but that our community was able to thrive as well. My father has dedicated his life to giving back to others, it is the thing he is most proud of, yet the thing he talks about the least. Rarely a day goes by without hearing of a story from someone in our community about how my father helped their family plant roots, thrive, or find stability in our community. He does this not for recognition, but because it is the right thing to do.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

I believe that transparency, honesty, and integrity are the most crucial characteristics and principles for anyone seeking elected office.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

I believe that my dedication to honest, ethical politics and my clear moral compass will make me an equitable and successful officeholder.

What is your favorite book? Why?

Meditations by Marcus Aurelius

Do you believe it’s beneficial to build relationships with other legislators? Please explain your answer.

I do. In order to make comprehensive and lasting change, strong relationships must be built.

Are you interested in running for a different political office (for example, the U.S. Congress or governor) in the future?

I am not sure at the moment. I have and will always be led by the wants and needs of my community. I was approached by several community stakeholders and constituents who had valid concerns over their representation, and they asked me to run. In the future, if my community wants to me to advance I will consider doing so. At this time, my focus is securing the seat of State Representative in the 16th District.

Do you believe that compromise is necessary or desirable for policymaking?

Yes, I do. I believe whole heartedly that you must be able to work with those on all sides of the aisle to accomplish productive, holistic policies. I would never compromise my morals, values, or ethics, but do believe that communication is key in any public service position.

Who are you? Tell us about yourself.

Kevin Olickal is a progressive Democrat committed to fighting for middle-class and working families, ensuring that every community has a voice in government. As a lifelong Skokie resident and son of immigrants, Kevin is dedicated to keeping our district a place where everyone can thrive.

Kevin is a proud alumnus of Skokie public schools and Niles North High School. After earning a Bachelor of Science in Biology at The Ohio State University, he returned to Illinois, committing his career to public service to advance and protect the progressive values that allowed his family to succeed in this country.

Kevin Olickal is the true progressive we need in the 16th District. He is truly an independent voice for our community who will ensure we all have a seat at the table. Kevin's experience working with government representatives and his success in growing community engagement make Kevin the leader who will advance the 16th District forward.

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

Fighting for a Government that WorksFighting for Lower Property TaxesFighting for Healthcare Reform

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

Healthcare reform