About Justin

Since January 5, 2017, Justin Slaughter has been the Illinois State Representative of the 27th District. Prior to becoming State Representative, Justin developed a successful career as a public servant that included invaluable experience in government and public policy. Throughout his achievements in the public sector, Representative Slaughter has always exemplified a strong commitment to address and empower under-served communities.

As a college student, Representative Slaughter experienced his first endeavors into public service as an intern for U.S. Congressman Bobby Rush (IL-1st District); and later for then 6th Ward Chicago Alderman Freddrenna Lyle. These experiences provided Rep Slaughter the critical opportunities to better understand our nation’s legislative process, and also experience local government at the community level.

After graduating from college, Justin became the District Director for then Illinois State Senator Kwame Raoul (13 District). In this capacity, Mr. Slaughter was instrumental in connecting constituents to vital government resources, as well as, developing public policy initiatives impacting statewide criminal justice disparities. Following this endeavor, Justin was a Policy Advisor for Illinois Governor, Pat Quinn.

This experience allowed Justin to spearhead statewide initiatives in the areas of criminal justice reform, juvenile justice, social services, and minority economic development. After leaving Governor Quinn’s office, Justin became the Deputy Director of Programs for the Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice (IDJJ). In this role, Justin implemented and oversaw all services and programs within IDJJ’s Youth Centers and assisted IDJJ in pioneering its first youth-focused aftercare initiative.

After eight dedicated years of service with State government, Justin decided to remain in the public sector and work within the Cook County government. This experience included a stint as the District Director for Cook County Commissioner Stanley Moore (4th District), as well as, working in the administration of Cook County Board President, Toni Preckwinkle; first as a Special Assistant in the Bureau of Administration and then as a Legislative Coordinator for the Secretary to the Board of Commissioners.

Representative Slaughter has a Bachelor’s in Political Science from the University of Chicago and a Masters of Public Policy and Administration from Northwestern University.

Justin is a member of Salem Baptist Church of Chicago and a proud brother of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity Inc. A Native Chicagoan, Representative Slaughter was born and raised in the 27 th District in the Brainerd Park neighborhood where he currently still resides with his loving wife, Catrena, and their son, Russell.