Kankakee Times

Robin Kelly, currently serving in the U.S. Congress representing Illinois’ 2nd district, shared her recent advocacy efforts via social media. Kelly, who replaced Jesse Jackson Jr. in 2013, has actively addressed issues related to mental health resources for emergency operators, healthcare reforms, and maternal health.

On April 17, 2025, Kelly addressed the mental health challenges faced by emergency operators, stating, "Emergency operators help callers in violent and disturbing situations – but after the call is over, operators themselves don't receive the mental health support and resources they need." In response, she introduced bipartisan legislation aimed at providing necessary mental health support for operators.

On the same day, Kelly highlighted the work of 911 operators at the SouthCom Dispatch Center in Matteson. She noted, "We need to take care of our 911 operators, especially as the Trump admin continues to slash people’s healthcare and mental health programs." Her comments underscore concerns about the administration's healthcare policies affecting mental health programs.

On April 18, 2025, Kelly remarked on the conclusion of Black Maternal Health Week, emphasizing the ongoing efforts required to support Black mothers. As noted in her post, "As Black Maternal Health Week comes to the end, the fight to save Black mothers continues."

Robin Kelly was born in New York City, New York, in 1956 and graduated from Bradley University in 1977. Since beginning her congressional service in 2013, she has focused on various advocacy areas in her long-standing representation of Illinois' 2nd District.