News

Introduction

Stay informed with the latest media coverage and external news featuring GCI’s work and impact.

A gallery wall displays framed posters and student artwork focused on Latino and Latinx history and social justice. The posters include messages such as “Our History Matters,” “Latinx History Matters,” and “We Deserve Credit Too,” along with collages of historical figures, cultural symbols, and images related to civil rights movements. The colorful display is mounted on a purple wall with a mural partially visible on the left.

Funding Cuts, Shrinking Philanthropy Threaten Latino Arts

Posted on March 10, 2026

Article highlights Latino arts funding disparities in Chicago, citing Great Cities Institute research and efforts supporting Latino theater visibility.

ASN Releases GCI Youth Joblessness Findings and Urges Action

Posted on February 12, 2026

ASN highlights a recent GCI report exposing Illinois youth joblessness crisis and calling for major workforce investment.

A room full of business leaders listened to, pictured above from left, T. William Lester, Dean Jon Gould, Orange County Supervisor Vicente Sarmiento and Raiven Greenberg present the findings from a survey on the impacts of immigration and tariff policies. Photos by Karen Tapia

OC businesses lose $59M following immigration enforcement

Posted on January 27, 2026

Research shows intensified immigration enforcement devastated Orange County businesses, with Matt Wilson of GCI co-authoring key economic impact analysis.

Trump’s mass deportation push is crushing local economies

Posted on October 16, 2025

CNN article reports Trump’s mass deportation push is devastating immigrant communities and in turn threatening nationwide economic stability.

Let’s consider who’s profiting from the detention center business

Posted on September 04, 2025

Teresa Córdova warns immigration crackdowns harm Chicago’s economy, fueling private detention profits while undermining immigrant communities.

Immigration crackdown deals a blow to Chicago’s Latino business corridors

Posted on September 04, 2025

Crain’s spotlights Latino business declines amid Trump immigration crackdowns; Teresa Córdova emphasizes economic ripple effects citywide.

Crain’s Chicago Business: Chicago’s population is growing again

Posted on May 15, 2025

Crain’s reports Chicago’s population growth rebounds as Rob Paral attributes gains to crisis-driven immigration and policy impact.

Chicago sees 7th largest U.S. population gain, suburbs follow

Posted on May 15, 2025

Chicago Tribune reports population growth in Chicago; Rob Paral warns future gains depend on continued immigration and regional shifts.

Pope’s Childhood in Chicago Tells a Story of Catholic America

Posted on May 14, 2025

The New York Times highlights Pope Leo’s South Side roots, with Rob Paral emphasizing his upbringing in a working-class community.

Flag of State of Illinois with the downtown Chicago in the background, with photo credits to Getty

Illinois jobs grew in early 2025, but concerns remain

Posted on April 24, 2025

Crain’s reports modest Illinois job growth, but losses in manufacturing and professional services signal widening economic inequality.