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by Stephen Lindsley The early part of the 20th century saw an unprecedented influx of immigrants to America. Many settled on the coasts, while others continued their journey to other parts of the country where family, friends and new jobs awaited them. The first International Institute was founded in New York City in 1911. The St. Louis International Institute was founded in 1919, and located at 2338 S. Broadway, which at the time was in an area heavily populated by immigrants. By the end of that year, the Institute had a staff of eight people, five of whom were “nationality” (ethnic) workers who spoke a range of some 15 languages between them. 2004 marks the 85th anniversary of the International Institute in St. Louis. Today, says president and CEO Anna Crosslin, the St. Louis Institute employs more than 100 full-time and part-time staff.About 20 different languages are spoken by the staff, and the Institute contracts for interpreters who speak an additional 30 languages. “Our interpreter/translator bureau is a big part of what we do,” says Crosslin. “The program is called ‘Language Links,’ and it provides language services to hospitals, courts, businesses and other organizations that are involved with ethnic populations.” Crosslin herself has been with the Institute for 25 years, which is now located on South Grand Boulevard – another area with a prominent ethnic community. Annually, the Institute provides services to more than 10,000 newcomers from 40 countries. Nearly 30,000 area residents benefit from the agency’s outreach efforts. As the only non-sectarian entity that helps settle refugees, the Institute is part of a national network of service agencies that sponsor refugees in conjunction with the U.S. Department of State. New refugees are supported for four to six weeks, including an apartment, orientation and language classes. Crosslin says that changing social and economic conditions around the world often determine where the highest numbers of immigrants originate. In the last few months she has seen more refugees from places such as Liberia and Somalia. In addition to its daily mission, the Institute organizes two annual events that highlight ethnic diversity in our community. The International Folkfest has its origins in the International May Festival, which was first held in St. Louis in 1920. Over the years the event has grown to include representatives from more than 70 nations who present authentic food, music, dance and crafts. This year, the Folkfest will be held indoors at Queeny Park from Oct. 15 to 17. The Festival of Nations is a multiethnic celebration in Tower Grove Park – held this year on July 24 and 25 – and presented by the Institute and 125 ethnic and international organizations. Admission is free, and the celebration includes a parade of nations, two stages offering music and dance performances, as well as craft demonstrations and food from around the world. An international soccer tournament is also planned. Because the Institute is celebrating its 85th anniversary, a gala celebration is being planned for Nov. 19. Also in the works is an alumni picnic the following day on the Institute parking lot, where Institute staff will be talking to people about their experiences and success stories, and possibly compiling a cookbook of international cuisine. For more information about the International Institute, call 773-9090, or visit them at www.intlinst.org. |
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