Immigrant Heritage Month 2026

Immigrant Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize the strength, resilience, and contributions of immigrant communities while ensuring individuals and families have access to clear, accurate information. 

At NSLAC, we are committed to providing free, trusted legal advice and resources that help people understand their rights and navigate complex systems with confidence. This page brings together key information, tools, and educational resources to support our community throughout the month and beyond. 

Know Your Rights (KYR)

Everyone in the United States has rights, regardless of immigration status. 

  • You have the right to remain silent.  
  • You do not have to open your door without a judicial warrant signed by a judge.  
  • You have the right to speak with an attorney.  
  • You should not sign documents you do not understand.  

Reminder: Having a plan and keeping important documents in a safe place can help protect you and your family. 

Find other essential flyers and Know Your Rights info HERE

Understanding Immigration Basics 

  • Immigration processes vary depending on individual circumstances.  
  • Many applications take significant time to process.  
  • Notarios and “immigration consultants” are not licensed attorneys.  
  • Legal guidance from trusted providers is critical when making decisions.  

Avoiding Scams 

Be cautious of anyone who: 

  • Promises guaranteed results  
  • Requests large upfront payments  
  • Encourages false information on applications  
  • Claims special influence with immigration authorities  
  • Seek assistance from licensed attorneys or reputable legal aid organizations. 

Immigrants are an essential part of our community, contributing to its strength, diversity, and economic vitality. In NSLAC’s service area: 

immigration stats

These numbers reflect the rich diversity of cultures, languages, and perspectives that shape our neighborhoods every day. 

A Diverse and Multilingual Community 

The communities NSLAC serves are not only diverse in origin, but also in language and lived experience. 

  • A significant portion of NSLAC clients speak a language other than English  
  • NSLAC staff collectively speak 10 languages, including Spanish, Urdu, Dari, Pashto, Korean, Serbian, Portuguese, Russian, Ukrainian, and Hebrew  
  • Interpretation services are available to ensure language is never a barrier to accessing legal help  

This linguistic and cultural diversity is a strength, and it underscores the importance of accessible, community-based legal services. 

Why Access to Legal Services Matters 

Many immigrant families in our community face complex and overlapping challenges related to housing stability, safety, and immigration status. 

  • Immigration issues can directly impact housing stability, including loss of income or fear of enforcement  
  • Survivors of domestic violence may face additional risks tied to immigration status  
  • Increased enforcement activity has led to a rise in detained individuals seeking legal support  

NSLAC is one of the only organizations in the area able to provide free immigration legal services regardless of status, ensuring that some of the most vulnerable community members are not left without support.  

Our Impact

Through our Immigration Law Practice and related programs, we provide both direct legal representation and community education:

  • Hundreds of immigration cases are opened each year
  • Community members receive Know Your Rights education and legal screenings
  • Families are supported through complex processes that can take months or years to resolve
  • This work helps individuals not only navigate the legal system, but also build stability, security, and peace of mind.

Why This Matters

Behind these numbers are individuals and families who contribute to our workforce, open businesses, raise families, and strengthen the social fabric of our community.

Immigrant Heritage Month is an opportunity to recognize these contributions while continuing to ensure that everyone has access to accurate information, legal resources, and support.

Resource Spotlights 

In Illinois, there are a  variety of resources and support services available to community members regardless of immigration status. We are grateful for the organizations and partners committed to expanding access to justice and supporting immigrant communities. Explore these resources below:

Learning & Exploration 

This Immigrant Heritage Month, we honor the voices, stories, and lived experiences shared through books, film, and storytelling. Looking for your next read or watch? Explore some of our staff recommendations below:

Immigrant Heritage Month Events

In honor of Immigrant Heritage Month, we are excited to host a special “Voices of Justice” event highlighting North Suburban Legal Aid Clinic’s Immigration Practice. Join us for a conversation on how current policies and socio-economic factors are impacting the communities we serve and shaping NSLAC’s work.

This casual, coffee-style gathering is an opportunity for staff, volunteers, and supporters to connect, learn, and engage in meaningful discussion. Breakfast will be provided.

Kindly RSVP to Events@NSLegalAid.org

Date & Time: Wednesday, June 10 at 9:30 a.m.

Location: Egg Harbor Cafe in Glenview