Workforce Language Services

The University of Notre Dame’s Institute for Latino Studies, along with the Metropolitan Mayors Caucus, released a report today which will assist suburban municipalities in incorporating the swelling Latino population into the community. 

It is the culmination of nearly a year’s worth of round table discussions and combines the input of community leaders from nine Chicago suburbs experiencing the challenges of a swift demographic shift: overcrowded housing, a shortage of social services for immigrants and an influx of students who speak little English.

The report recommends more outreach to Latino immigrants who have not been exposed to housing ordinances in their homelands, and mediation services to help residents resolve conflicts, using interpreters if necessary.

Hartwig wants to continue the discussions and move beyond the “us versus them” mentality that often polarizes the immigration debate, he said.

As the Latino population shifts to the suburbs, those who can bridge the language barrier and serve as liasions to facilitate cross-cultural understanding and learning will be imperative to the integration of this new demographic.  The article highlights some of the challenges that come with adapting to an influx of people with different needs, and shows the importance of having culturally competent experts help facilitate the transition.