Rep. Leonela Felix

Representative Leonela "Leo" Felix is a member of the Rhode Island General Assembly, representing House District 61 in Pawtucket, and serves on the House Judiciary Committee. Elected in 2020, she is a dedicated legislator committed to progressive change.

In 2023, Representative Felix assumed the role of co-chair for the Rhode Island Black, Latino, Indigenous, Asian-American, and Pacific Islander Caucus (RIBLIA), formerly known as the Rhode Island Black and Latino Caucus. Notable legislative achievements include sponsoring transit-oriented development legislation, addressing housing challenges, and advocating for homeowners facing foreclosure. Leveraging her firsthand experience within the criminal legal system, Representative Felix played a pivotal role in passing the automatic expungement provision in the cannabis legislation, leading to the expungement of over 25,000 criminal records to date.

Beyond her legislative work, Representative Felix is a community advocate with leadership roles at Progreso Latino and contributions to various State advocacy committees. Nationally recognized, she is part of the NewDEAL network, showcasing her leadership on a broader stage.

Born in Boston and raised in the Dominican Republic, Representative Felix is a proud Pawtucket resident. Holding degrees in justice studies and sociology from Rhode Island College, she earned her Juris Doctorate from New England Law/Boston. Currently, she serves as the ethics education coordinator in the legal department for the City of Providence. Passionate about inclusive leadership, she remains dedicated to fostering positive change in her community and beyond, striving for a more just society for all.