Fuerza Mexicana: The Past, Present, and Power of Mexicans in Chicagoland
Executive Summary
Fuerza Mexicana: The Past, Present, and Power of Mexicans in Chicagoland is a comprehensive, data-driven report that documents the deep historical roots, contemporary realities, and collective power of the Mexican community across Chicago, Cook County, and the surrounding collar counties. Produced by the University of Illinois Chicago’s Great Cities Institute in collaboration with Mexican-led nonprofit organizations, the report addresses a longstanding gap in research by centering Mexicans as a distinct population rather than subsuming them within broader “Latino” categories.
Drawing on U.S. Census and American Community Survey data, historical archives, and focus groups with more than 60 Mexican community leaders, the report examines key domains including population trends, identity, education, housing, health, employment, business ownership, and civic participation. It highlights both the immense contributions of Mexicans to the region’s economic growth and cultural life, as well as persistent inequities rooted in disinvestment, labor segmentation, environmental injustice, and political underrepresentation.
At its core, Fuerza Mexicana is a call to action. It advances policy recommendations that emphasize disaggregated data collection, equitable housing and education investments, expanded business ownership opportunities, improved health access, and stronger civic engagement. By affirming Mexican identity and collective power, the report provides a critical foundation for advocacy, policymaking, and long-term community self-determination in Chicagoland.