Nydia Velázquez is a prominent American politician serving as a member of the U.S. House of Representatives since 1993. She represents New York's 7th congressional district, which includes parts of Brooklyn and Queens. Velázquez is the first Puerto Rican woman elected to Congress and has focused on issues such as economic development, small business support, and immigration reform. Born on March 28, 1953, in Yabucoa, Puerto Rico, Velázquez moved to the mainland United States for her education. She earned a degree from City University of New York and later obtained a master's degree in political science. Throughout her career, she has been an advocate for the Latino community and women's rights.