This report analyzes Illinois’ linguistic diversity and English proficiency under the state's Language Equity Act, by GCI’s Rob Paral.
Illinois Language Needs Assessment Report, June 2025
Creative Roots, Equitable Futures: Latino Arts in Chicago
This report reveals Latino arts' vital economic and cultural role in Chicago, yet highlights persistent funding and visibility inequities.
Read the Full Report Here.
Crain’s Chicago Business: Chicago’s population is growing again
Crain’s reports Chicago’s population growth rebounds as Rob Paral attributes gains to crisis-driven immigration and policy impact.
Read the Full Article Here.
Chicago sees 7th largest U.S. population gain, suburbs follow
Chicago Tribune reports population growth in Chicago; Rob Paral warns future gains depend on continued immigration and regional shifts.
Read the Full Article Here.
Youth Joblessness and Disconnection: Racial/Geographic Inequities, 2019–2023
This data brief reveals stark racial and geographic disparities in youth joblessness and disconnection across Chicago, Cook County, and the U.S.
Read the Full Report Here.
Pope’s Childhood in a Changing Chicago Tells a Story of Catholic America
The New York Times highlights Pope Leo’s South Side roots, with Rob Paral emphasizing his upbringing in a working-class community.
Read the Full Article Here.
Opinion: America can’t afford to cut the manufacturing extension partnership
Op-Ed by one of our own, Matthew Wilson: Trump’s MEP cuts undermine U.S. manufacturing, jobs, competitiveness, and economic resilience.
Read the Full Article Here.
Illinois jobs grew in early 2025, but concerns remain
GCI’s Matthew Wilson on Crain’s: Illinois job growth masks instability, automation impact, and a widening economic divide.
Read the Full Article Here.
US-Canada Great Lakes cooperation may be ending soon.
Dr. Rachel Havrelock, a GCI faculty fellow, warns U.S.-Canada Great Lakes cooperation is at risk, threatening environmental stability and water security.
Read the Full Article Here.
Trump’s Proposed Tariffs on Mexican Imports and Potential Effects
On WTTW, Juan Gonzalez warns U.S. tariffs could disrupt trade, cost jobs, raise prices, and fail to curb drug trafficking.