NAOBI-MCC History

The history of NAOBI-MCC was born from a desire to have an autonomous organization designed by, and for African American interpreters within the metropolitan Chicago area. This entity would serve as a forum for working interpreters of color to discuss the issues and concerns which affect the field of interpreting; and be a place of support to receive assistance in continued professional development. Leandra Williams, a strong advocate in the African American interpreter community, was the one who planted the seed into Walter Mathews to establish a local chapter of NAOBI, Inc. Walter watered that seed, which now was growing inside several like-minded individuals. This resulted in the birthing of what we now know as NAOBI-MCC.

Those charter members shared a dream that we are currently making a reality; to create a safe place for African American interpreters to address issues important to us and to have a stake in our own professional development. The group worked hard in developing our bylaws, and the establishing of our mission statement along with the goals of the organization. These documents, coupled with the petition to become chapter, were submitted and accepted by NAOBI, Inc. In October of 1999, NAOBI-MCC became a recognized subchapter. It is with much thanks and appreciation that we applaud those charter members (named below) for all of their hard work.