The 2026 Budget Engagement Report captures resident priorities, emphasizing equity, services, and sustainable revenue amid fiscal strain.
Residents at the Table: 2026 Budget Engagement Findings
Research News
Keep up to date with the latest urban research news coming out of GCI, our partners, and other reputable sources.
Illinois Language Needs Assessment Report, June 2025
This report analyzes Illinois’ linguistic diversity and English proficiency under the state's Language Equity Act, by GCI’s Rob Paral.
Read the Full Report Here.
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.
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.
2025 Raíces Report: Advancing Equity, Justice, and Community Development
The 2025 Raíces Report amplifies Latino voices, guiding policies on equity, justice, and community development for a stronger Illinois.
Read the Full Report Here.
Assessing Philanthropic Support for Latines in the Chicago Area
The report reveals disparities in funding for Latine organizations in Cook County, urging equitable and intersectional philanthropic approaches.
Read the Full Report Here.
Fuerza Mexicana: The Past, Present, and Power of Mexicans in Chicagoland
This report highlights the overlooked unique contributions and circumstances of Mexicans in Chicago and Cook County.
Read the Full Report Here.
Chicago Latino Neighborhoods Report Preview
The report details demographic shifts, income disparities, and gentrification impacting Chicago's Latino neighborhoods, highlighting economic and transportation challenges.
Read the Full Report Here.
Uneven Recovery and Sustained Inequality after the COVID-19 Recession
This data brief analyzes jobless and out-of-school rates in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois, and the U.S. by age, race/ethnicity, and sex.
Read the Full Report Here.
Research Brief: The Benefits of Health Coverage for Immigrants in Illinois
This research brief will provide context/value added to Illinois by extending targeted medical coverage to low-income undocumented adults.