Chicago

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Multilingual Resources

Information on available resources for non-English speakers, such as translated documents, interpreters, or bilingual signage at key institutions.

Sections

1. Translation and Interpretation Services

Chicago has numerous professional services and community-based organizations that provide translation and interpretation assistance for residents and visitors.

Professional Translation and Interpretation Services

  • Chicago Translation Services

    • Offers document translation, interpretation, and localization services in over 100 languages.
    • Commonly translated documents include legal contracts, medical records, immigration papers, and business materials.
    • Cost: Prices vary depending on the language and complexity of the document, typically starting at $30 per page for translation. Interpretation services are charged hourly, starting at $50/hour.
    • Contact: Visit chicagotranslationservices.com or call their office.

  • Interprenet

    • Specializes in on-site and remote interpretation services for conferences, legal proceedings, and medical appointments.
    • Offers services in over 200 languages, including American Sign Language (ASL).
    • Cost: Rates start at $75/hour for interpretation.
    • Contact: Visit interprenet.net or call (877) 928-1188.

  • Metaphrasis Language & Cultural Solutions

    • Provides interpretation and translation services for healthcare, legal, and educational settings.
    • Offers training for bilingual individuals to become certified interpreters.
    • Cost: Varies by service; contact for a quote.
    • Contact: Visit metaphrasislcs.com or call (815) 464-1423.

Free or Low-Cost Translation Services

  • Chicago Public Library (CPL)

    • Offers free access to translation tools and multilingual staff at select branches.
    • Some branches host language-specific programs and workshops.
    • Contact: Visit chipublib.org or call your local branch.

  • Illinois Coalition for Immigrant and Refugee Rights (ICIRR)

    • Provides free or low-cost translation and interpretation services for immigrants and refugees.
    • Focuses on legal, healthcare, and social service needs.
    • Contact: Visit icirr.org or call (312) 332-7360.

2. Language Classes

Chicago offers a variety of language classes for both English learners and those interested in learning other languages.

English as a Second Language (ESL) Programs

  • City Colleges of Chicago (CCC)

    • Offers free ESL classes for adults at various levels, from beginner to advanced.
    • Classes are available in-person and online.
    • Procedure: Register online or visit a CCC campus to take a placement test.
    • Contact: Visit ccc.edu or call (773) 481-8300.

  • Heartland Alliance

    • Provides free ESL classes for immigrants and refugees, with a focus on workplace English and cultural adaptation.
    • Contact: Visit heartlandalliance.org or call (312) 660-1300.

  • Howard Area Community Center

    • Offers free ESL classes and citizenship preparation courses.
    • Contact: Visit howardarea.org or call (773) 262-6622.

Foreign Language Classes

  • Alliance Franรงaise de Chicago

    • Offers French language classes for all levels, as well as cultural events.
    • Cost: Classes start at $300 for an 8-week session.
    • Contact: Visit af-chicago.org or call (312) 337-1070.

  • Instituto Cervantes of Chicago

    • Specializes in Spanish language classes and cultural programming.
    • Cost: Classes start at $250 for an 8-week session.
    • Contact: Visit chicago.cervantes.es or call (312) 335-1996.

  • Chinese Mutual Aid Association (CMAA)

    • Offers Mandarin and Cantonese classes, as well as ESL and citizenship preparation.
    • Contact: Visit chinesemutualaid.org or call (773) 784-2900.

3. Community Organizations Offering Language Support

Several community organizations in Chicago provide multilingual resources and support for immigrants and non-English speakers.

  • Latino Policy Forum

    • Advocates for the Latino community and offers Spanish-language resources for housing, education, and immigration.
    • Contact: Visit latinopolicyforum.org or call (312) 376-1766.

  • Polish American Association (PAA)

    • Provides Polish-language services, including ESL classes, job training, and immigration assistance.
    • Contact: Visit polish.org or call (773) 282-8206.

  • Korean American Community Services (KACS)

    • Offers Korean-language support for seniors, families, and immigrants, including ESL classes and social services.
    • Contact: Visit kacschicago.org or call (773) 583-5501.

  • Arab American Action Network (AAAN)

    • Provides Arabic-language services, including ESL classes, youth programs, and immigration assistance.
    • Contact: Visit aaan.org or call (773) 436-6060.

4. Relevant Government Programs

The City of Chicago and the State of Illinois offer programs to support multilingual residents.

  • Chicago Office of New Americans (ONA)

    • Provides resources for immigrants, including language access services and information on legal aid.
    • Contact: Visit chicago.gov/ONA or call 311.

  • Illinois Welcoming Centers

    • State-run centers that offer multilingual services for immigrants and refugees, including translation, interpretation, and referrals to ESL programs.
    • Contact: Visit illinois.gov or call (312) 793-3610.

  • Chicago Public Schools (CPS) Bilingual Education Program

    • Offers bilingual education and English Language Learner (ELL) support for students.
    • Parents can request translation and interpretation services for school meetings.
    • Contact: Visit cps.edu or call (773) 553-1000.

5. Cultural Centers

Cultural centers in Chicago celebrate the cityโ€™s diversity and often provide language and cultural resources.

  • National Museum of Mexican Art

  • Swedish American Museum

  • Chinese-American Museum of Chicago

    • Provides Mandarin-language tours and cultural events.
    • Contact: Visit ccamuseum.org or call (312) 949-1000.

6. Practical Guidance and Cultural Considerations

  • Language Access Rights: Under federal law, public institutions (e.g., hospitals, schools, and courts) must provide free interpretation and translation services for non-English speakers. Always ask for these services if needed.
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Chicagoans are generally welcoming, but itโ€™s helpful to learn basic English phrases for daily interactions. Many residents also appreciate when visitors show interest in their cultural heritage.
  • Community Events: Attend cultural festivals like the Chicago Latino Film Festival, Chinatown Summer Fair, or Polish Fest to connect with multilingual communities.

By leveraging these resources, you can navigate Chicagoโ€™s multilingual landscape with ease. Let me know if you need further assistance!