Ana Maria Archila

Ana Maria Archila emigrated to the U.S. from Colombia at the age of 17 and has since emerged as a prominent advocate for racial justice, economic justice, and immigrant rights both in New York and nationally. Initially, as co-Executive Director of Make the Road New York (MRNY), and currently as Co-Executive Director of the Center for Popular Democracy (CPD), she has been pivotal in shaping progressive policies and community empowerment.

During her tenure spanning 13 years at MRNY and its predecessor organization, the Latin American Integration Center, Archila played a crucial role in transforming MRNY into a significant force for change. Under her leadership, MRNY, comprising over 16,000 members primarily from the Latino immigrant working class, secured several legislative victories that significantly benefited low-income New Yorkers. These include substantial increases in the minimum wage, the institution of paid sick days, and robust protections against wage theft. Furthermore, MRNY's advocacy efforts helped establish New York City as a leading Sanctuary City, contributing to major policy reforms across housing, education, healthcare, policing, civil rights, and more.

In 2014, Archila assumed the role of Co-Executive Director at the Center for Popular Democracy. Under her guidance, CPD has grown into one of the largest community organizing networks in the U.S., encompassing 45 affiliate organizations across 32 states. This network forms a dynamic multi-racial alliance of immigrants, African Americans, and white working-class communities dedicated to advancing a platform of racial and economic justice, and robust democracy. CPD's influence has been particularly noteworthy in the national movement to elevate the minimum wage, securing salary increases for nearly 11 million workers. Collaborating with progressive local officials, CPD has reinforced the role of cities as hubs of policy innovation that promote immigrant rights, workplace justice, and economic opportunities for communities of color.

In addition to her organizational leadership, Archila leverages her personal experiences with sexual violence and activism to connect with and educate her audiences, adding a powerful personal dimension to her advocacy efforts. Through her work, she continues to drive significant policy changes and empower diverse communities across the United States.