Janet Murguía, born on September 6, 1960, is a prominent American civil rights activist and leader in Latino advocacy. She grew up in Kansas City, Kansas, as one of seven children of immigrant parents, experiencing the challenges and opportunities of the American Dream firsthand. Murguía pursued higher education at the University of Kansas, where she earned bachelor's degrees in journalism and Spanish, followed by a juris doctorate. Her early career in Washington, D.C., began as legislative counsel to former Kansas Congressman Jim Slattery for seven years. From 1994 to 2000, she served in the White House under President Bill Clinton, rising to the position of deputy assistant to the president, where she provided strategic and legislative advice on key issues.

In 2001, Murguía became the president and CEO of UnidosUS, formerly known as the National Council of La Raza (NCLR), the largest national Hispanic civil rights and advocacy organization in the United States. Under her leadership, the organization has focused on advancing immigrant rights, opposing restrictive immigration policies, and promoting opportunities for Latino communities. She has been recognized as a key figure in the next generation of Latino leaders, devoting her career to public service and opening doors for millions of American families. Murguía's family includes her twin sister, Mary Murguía, and elder brother, Carlos Murguía, both of whom serve as federal judges, highlighting a legacy of public service in her family.

Throughout her tenure, Murguía has advocated for policies that support education, health, and economic opportunities for Latinos, while coordinating efforts against restrictionist policies, including adversarial relationships with figures like Dan Stein of the Federation for American Immigration Reform. Her work has positioned her as an influential voice in shaping national discussions on civil rights and immigration reform.