Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz is a Democratic member of the Pennsylvania House of Representatives for the 129th district, serving since 2022. Born in New York City to parents who immigrated from the Dominican Republic, she attended school in the Dominican Republic from ages 9 to 14. She relocated to Reading in 2007 and founded Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe, a signature Dominican restaurant on Penn Street. She is the first Democrat and first Latina ever elected from PA District 129.
JC
Serving
Johanny Cepeda-Freytiz
State HouseDemocrat
PA-PA HD-129 State House
About
Family & Heritage
Born in New York City to parents Ana and Luis Cepeda who immigrated from the Dominican Republic. Lived in the Dominican Republic from ages 9 to 14. Mother of two.
Political Career
Before Politics
Program Director at Grand Street Settlement Beacon Center in New York; part-time college counselor at Marta Valle Secondary School; founder and owner of Mi Casa Su Casa Cafe in Reading
Education
B.A. in French (minor in Spanish), SUNY New Paltz, 1996; M.S. in Education, Long Island University, 2007; Bilingual Guidance Counselor certification
Awards & Recognition
James Hyson Entrepreneur Award (2009); Businessperson of the Year, Latino Chamber of Commerce (2011); Girl Scouts Take the Lead Award (2017); COVID-19 Hero Award, United Community Services (2020); Purple Ribbon Business Partner of the Year (2021)
Key Issues & Priorities
Education funding
small business support
economic development
community development
public safety