We, the court interpreters of Cook County, deserve a contract that truly reflects the fundamental values of our community. We deserve a contract that respects our service to the Immigrant and Limited English population of Cook County and recognizes interpreters as servants of the courts who ensure the judicial process is fair and just for everyone. 

Court Interpreters are critical, vital, and necessary to ensure that Limited English
Proficient (LEP) residents are afforded the right of due process within Cook County and the court system. As skilled and experienced professionals in the largest unified court system in the world that serves 5.2 million residents, Cook County is home to 743,200 people with Limited English Proficiency (around 15% of the population).

Through the years the responsibilities of Court Interpreters have expanded to serve other departments beyond the courts. Compared to neighboring counties within Illinois, with a lesser LEP population and other jurisdictions across the country, Cook County interpreter’s salaries remain below the rate of inflation and cost of living. As
professionals, the Cook County court interpreters want to be treated with respect and receive support from the Office Supervisors, the Office of the Chief Judge and from the Cook County Board.

I support the Cook County Court Interpreters in negotiating a fair labor contract.

I am signing this petition in support the Cook County court interpreters. They
have a right to fair pay for all interpreters. It is my hope that Cook County and the
Chief Judge will show that they value their interpreters, who are experienced
professionals, and negotiate a fair contract. A fair contract for the Cook County court
interpreters will ensure and secure the right of due process for all LEP residents of the county.