Meet the Alderman

Matt Martin is serving his second term as alderman of the 47th Ward. He lives in Lincoln Square with his wife Katelyn, son Isaac, and daughter Ameena. Prior to being elected alderman, Matt worked as a civil rights lawyer at the Illinois Attorney General’s Office, where he focused on important issues including police reform, immigration, healthcare, and worker’s rights.

Matt earned bachelor’s degrees in Jazz Studies and Political Science from Northwestern University, and his juris doctorate from Harvard Law School.

As alderman, he believes it is critical to be independent, transparent, and willing to take on big challenges like maintaining and expanding affordability, fully funding our schools, and addressing community violence.

Committees

• Ethics and Government Oversight (Chair)

• Environmental Protection and Energy

• Pedestrian and Traffic Safety

• Budget and Government Operations

• Finance

• Public Safety

• License and Consumer Protection

• Rules

Awards and Honors

• 2024 Reform for Illinois Outstanding Leadership in Ethics

• 2023 Active Transportation Alliance Safe Streets Champion

• 2021 Community Advocate Award from The Network: Advocating Against Domestic Violence

• 2021 Edgar Fellow

• 2020 Crain’s 40 Under 40